Earthquake 7.1 Strikes Deep Under Sabah, Malaysia — Widespread Shaking but Low Damage Risk
A major Earthquake with an initial magnitude of 7. 1 struck beneath Sabah, Malaysia, producing tremors felt across the region and prompting continued seismic monitoring. The quake’s substantial depth — approximately 620 kilometers below the surface — greatly reduced the likelihood of severe shaking and damage, but the event remains under review and details may be revised as analysts update maps and aftershock information.
Earthquake location, magnitude and depth
Data places the temblor roughly 34 miles northwest of Kota Belud. Time stamps from available records list the event at 11: 57 a. m. Eastern and also at 12: 57 a. m. local time. Measured values include a magnitude of 7. 1 and a hypocenter depth near 619. 8–620 kilometers. The depth classifies this as a very deep earthquake, which typically reduces peak ground motions at the surface despite a large magnitude at source.
Shaking footprint, felt reports and risk assessment
Because the source was so deep, maximum shaking intensity was estimated in the moderate range (intensity V), a level generally not associated with structural damage. Observations note that the shaking was felt across a broad area, with felt reports coming from multiple neighboring countries and some accounts extending as far as 1, 500 kilometers from the epicenter. Within Malaysia, tremors were experienced on Sabah’s west coast and in several areas of Sarawak.
Seismic authorities rated the likelihood of casualties or damage as low. A tsunami alert was not issued, with depth cited as the reason that tsunami activity was not expected. National meteorological officials placed the event’s magnitude at 6. 8 in their initial assessment and indicated they would continue to monitor the situation closely.
Maps, aftershocks and what comes next
Seismologists note that the reported magnitude and shake-severity maps may be revised as more data are analyzed. Shake maps available shortly after the event were timestamped for review; shake data were current as of one midday Eastern update, and aftershocks data were updated later that same day. When aftershock information becomes available, it is customary to include events within a roughly 100-mile radius and the first seven days following the initial quake for map overlays and charting.
Deep earthquakes can be widely felt while producing limited surface damage. Because this event occurred at great depth, ground motions decay slowly with distance, explaining why distant locations reported noticeable rattling even when local damage was unlikely. Monitoring will continue for aftershocks and any adjustments to magnitude and intensity estimates.
Key facts and timeline
- Location: near Kota Belud, Sabah region (approximate placement northwest of the town)
- Initial magnitude listed: 7. 1
- Alternate magnitude from national agency: 6. 8
- Depth: roughly 619. 8–620 kilometers below the surface
- Local time of event: 12: 57 a. m. (local)
- Eastern Time listing: 11: 57 a. m. (Eastern)
- Maximum reported shaking intensity: V (moderate)
- Tsunami alert: not issued; depth cited as reason
- Felt reports: extended across the region, including locations up to about 1, 500 kilometers away
This remains a developing seismic event: analysts may revise magnitude and mapping as additional data arrive and aftershock patterns are logged. Monitoring agencies are continuing to update their assessments and maps, and the public in affected areas is advised to follow local guidance as the situation evolves.
