Magnitude 7.4 Earthquake Strikes Indonesia Coast, Triggers Tsunami Alert

USGS recorded a Magnitude 7.4 earthquake off Indonesia’s northeast coast late Thursday. The quake struck at 22:48 GMT, 05:48 local time.

Quake details and location

The epicenter lay 35 kilometers deep in the Molucca Sea near Ternate. USGS placed it about 127 kilometers northwest of Ternate. It was also roughly 134 kilometers southeast of Bitung.

Tsunami warning and sea level alerts

The U.S. tsunami warning system initially estimated a magnitude of 7.8. It warned of a potential tsunami threat within 1,000 kilometers along regional coasts. Authorities later canceled the alert.

Japan’s meteorological agency reported possible slight sea level variations. It did not expect tsunami damage to Japanese shores.

Damage and casualties

Buildings suffered damage in cities near the epicenter. In Manado, several structures partially or fully collapsed.

Search and Rescue spokesperson Nuriadin Gumeleng said a 70-year-old woman died in a building collapse. A small number of people suffered injuries as emergency teams responded.

Response and monitoring

Evacuation protocols were activated in areas close to the epicenter. Officials warned residents to stay alert for aftershocks and minor sea level changes.

Rescue teams continued assessments of damaged buildings and infrastructure. Local authorities worked to restore normal services.

Seismic context

Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone of frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. The country records roughly 7,000 earthquakes each year.

Officials recalled the 2004 Sumatra quake and tsunami that killed more than 226,000 people across a dozen countries. That disaster remains a stark reminder of regional tsunami risk.

Filmogaz.com will follow developments and publish updates as new information becomes available.