Very strong and shallow M7.2 earthquake hits Banda Sea, Indonesia

A very strong earthquake registered by the BMKG as M7.2hit Banda Sea, Indonesia at 04:52 UTC (11:52 LT) on November 8, 2023, at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). The USGS registered M6.9 and M7.1 at 04:52 and 04:53 UTC, both at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles).

The epicenter was located 340.8 km (211.7 miles) SSE of Ambon (population 347 288), and 353 km (219.4 miles) S of Amahai (population 47 653), Maluku, Indonesia.

Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat, according to NWS PTWC and BMKG.

92 000 people are estimated to have felt the M7.1 earthquake.

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

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google