Very strong M7.1 earthquake hits Molucca Sea, Indonesia – tsunami warning issued

A very strong earthquake registered by the USGS as M7.1 hit the Molucca Sea, Indonesia at 16:17 UTC on November 14, 2019. The agency is reporting a depth of 62 km (38 miles). BMKG is reporting M7.1 at a depth of 73 km (45 miles). EMSC is reporting M7.2 at a depth of 60 km (37 miles).

The epicenter was located 135 km (84 miles) NW of Ternate (population 101 731) and 154 km (96 miles) WNW of Sofifi (population 36 197), North Maluku, Indonesia.

Hazardous tsunami waves are possible for coasts located within 300 km (185 miles) of the earthquake epicenter, PTWC said.

Residents in affected areas (Southern Minahasa-North (SULUT)) are urged to follow TSUNAMI early warning directions from BPBD, BNPB and BMKG.

763 000 people are estimated to have felt moderate shaking.

The USGS issued a green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick with concrete floor and precast concrete frame with wall construction.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as tsunamis that might have contributed to losses.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: Google