Strong and shallow M6.6 earthquake hits near Sinabang, Indonesia
A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.6 struck near Sinabang, Indonesia, at 04:56 UTC on November 27, 2025. The agency is reporting a depth of 25.4 km (15.8 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth. According to the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS), there is a potential tsunami threat to countries bordering the Indian Ocean.
Epicenter of M6.6 earthquake in Sinabang, Indonesia on November 27, 2025. Credit: TW/SAM, Google
The epicenter was located 46 km (28 miles) WNW of Sinabang (population 15 000), 147 km (91 miles) SW of Blangpidie (population 24 085), 162 km (101 miles) S of Meulaboh (population 64 646), and 310 km (192 miles) WSW of Medan (population 2 435 252), Indonesia.
Approximately 15 000 people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking, 65 000 strong, 19 000 moderate, 1 124 000 light, and 558 000 weak.
Based on pre-run model scenarios, there is a potential tsunami threat to countries in the Indian Ocean, according to the IOTWMS Tsunami Service Provider India. Sea level gauges are being monitored for any wave activity. Subsequent analysis by IOTWMS showed no tsunami threat.
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 some are resistant. 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.
Liquefaction triggered by this earthquake is estimated to be limited in extent. Landslides triggered by this event are not expected.
Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking
Selected cities exposed
Regional seismicity
References:
1 M6.6 earthquake Sinabang, Indonesia — USGS — November 27, 2025
2 M6.6 earthquake Sinabang, Indonesia — EMSC — November 27, 2025
I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news.
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