Indonesia: Strong earthquake of 6.7 magnitude rocks Talaud Islands

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.7 on the Richter scale jolted the Talaud Islands in Indonesia early Tuesday morning, sending tremors across the region and raising concerns about potential damage. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) reported the quake struck at 02:18:47 IST, originating at a depth of 80 kilometres.

6.7 magnitude earthquake hits Indonesia

According to the NCS, the epicentre of the quake was located at 4.75° latitude and 126.38° longitude, placing it directly within the Talaud island chain.

Taking it to X, NSC stated, “Earthquake of Magnitude:6.7, Occurred on 09-01-2024, 02:18:47 IST, Lat: 4.75 & Long: 126.38, Depth: 80 Km, Location: Talaud Islands, Indonesia.”

Earthquake of Magnitude:6.7, Occurred on 09-01-2024, 02:18:47 IST, Lat: 4.75 & Long: 126.38, Depth: 80 Km ,Location: Talaud Islands,Indonesia for more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/Ughl0I9JG3 @Indiametdept @ndmaindia @Dr_Mishra1966 @KirenRijiju @Ravi_MoES

— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) January 8, 2024

No immediate reports of casualties or major infrastructure damage have emerged, but authorities are still assessing the situation.

Previous earthquakes in Indonesia

This comes just days after another significant earthquake rocked Indonesia when a 6.0-magnitude tremor hit 98 kilometres west-southwest of Balai Pungut on Thursday. That quake, originating at a depth of 221.7 kilometres, also did not trigger any immediate reports of harm.

Why Indonesia is prone to earthquakes?

Indonesia lies along the so-called "Ring of Fire," a highly active seismic zone responsible for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. This makes the country particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for future tremors.

More details are still awaited.