7.4 Quake Hits Indonesia, Tsunami Waves Recorded

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia on Thursday morning, triggering small tsunami waves and causing casualties and structural damage, officials confirmed.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake lasted between 10 to 20 seconds. The epicentre was located approximately 127 kilometres west of Ternate Island in North Maluku Province, at a depth of 35 kilometres.

Shortly after the quake, tsunami waves were detected at multiple monitoring stations. In Bitung city, waves reached a height of 20 centimetres (8 inches), while West Halmahera recorded waves up to 30 centimetres.

Authorities reported that at least one person lost their life, and several homes and buildings suffered damage due to the impact of the quake and subsequent waves.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu stated that minor sea level fluctuations could also affect nearby regions, including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Papua New Guinea. However, there is no tsunami threat to distant locations such as Hawaii, Guam, or other Pacific islands.

Officials continue to monitor the situation closely while emergency teams assess damage and assist affected communities.