A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake rocked eastern Indonesia early Thursday, resulting in at least one confirmed fatality and triggering a tsunami warning, according to the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas). The earthquake struck at 6:48 AM local time, with its epicenter located approximately 129 kilometers (80 miles) southeast of Bitung at a depth of 62 kilometers. The tremors lasted around 20 seconds, causing panic among residents and leading to some structural damage in North Sulawesi and North Maluku.
Suharyanto, the head of Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), reported that one person was discovered dead under rubble at a sports facility in Manado. Additionally, one individual sustained light injuries. Damage assessments highlighted the impact in Ternate, where homes and a place of worship were affected. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) noted that tsunami waves of less than one meter were observed in parts of North Sulawesi, which included reports of seawater receding several meters from the coastline, particularly in Bitung.
In the wake of the earthquake, tsunami warnings were issued but were subsequently lifted at 9:56 AM Jakarta time. Nonetheless, authorities have advised residents to remain cautious and avoid coastal areas, emphasizing the importance of following official guidance. The earthquake also prompted 48 aftershocks, adding to the trembling uncertainty felt by communities already accustomed to seismic activity.
Indonesia, an archipelago of 17,000 islands, is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its active fault lines and volcanic activity. The country experiences thousands of earthquakes annually, most of which are minor and go unnoticed. However, past seismic events have resulted in considerable destruction and loss of life. In December 2018, over 400 people died due to a tsunami triggered by the eruption and partial collapse of Mount Anak Krakatau. Furthermore, a devastating earthquake and tsunami in Central Sulawesi that same year claimed more than 4,000 lives. The infamous 2004 Aceh tsunami remains the deadliest in Indonesian history, with a staggering death toll exceeding 115,000.
As Indonesia grapples with the aftermath of this latest earthquake, the focus now shifts to emergency response efforts and assessments of widespread damage. Residents are urged to stay informed through reliable channels as the nation continues to monitor seismic activity in a region that is all too familiar with the threats posed by earthquakes and tsunamis.
With assistance from Rieka Rahadiana, Eko Listiyorini, and Aradhana Aravindan, this article is updated with ongoing developments regarding the situation. For more stories like this, visit bloomberg.com.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/strong-earthquake-strikes-east-indonesia-killing-one-person-11775364802946.html
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Publish Date: 2026-04-05 10:23:00
