M6.2 earthquake hits Timor region, Indonesia

A strong earthquake registered by the BMKG as M6.2 hit the Timor region, Indonesia at 21:04 UTC on November 1, 2023, at a depth of 45 km (28 miles). USGS is reporting M6.1 at a depth of 36 km (22 miles); EMSC M6.0 at a depth of 39 km (24 miles).

The epicenter was located 22.1 km (13.7 miles) NE of Kupang (population 442 758), 63.2 km (39.3 miles) WSW of Soe (population 40 190), and 163 km (64 miles) SW of Kefamenanu (population 48 202), East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.

2 000 people are estimated to have felt strong shaking, 649 000 moderate, and 1 498 000 light.

Based on historical data and tsunami modeling, this earthquake may be capable of generating a tsunami affecting the Indian Ocean region, IOTWMS-TSP INDONESIA said, adding it will continue monitoring the situation to determine if a tsunami was generated and will issue further bulletins as information becomes available.

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 landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google