Key moments
A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia at 6:48 AM local time on April 2, 2026, causing significant concern among residents and officials alike. The epicenter was located approximately 120 kilometers from Ternate in North Maluku province, a region known for its seismic activity.
The earthquake resulted in at least one confirmed fatality, a 70-year-old woman who died due to building debris in North Sulawesi. In addition to the loss of life, the quake caused damage to several buildings and led to power outages in parts of the affected region. Residents reported strong shaking that lasted between 10 to 20 seconds, prompting immediate panic.
Following the earthquake, small tsunami waves were recorded, measuring 20 centimeters in Bitung and 30 centimeters in West Halmahera. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially warned of potential hazardous tsunami waves within a 1,000-kilometer radius of the epicenter. However, the tsunami warning was lifted after initial assessments indicated that the threat had diminished.
Indonesia’s geographical location on significant seismic fault lines makes it prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country frequently experiences such natural disasters due to its position on the Pacific Ring of Fire. This latest earthquake is a stark reminder of the ongoing seismic risks faced by communities in the region.
Local residents shared their experiences of the earthquake. Isvara Safitri described the intensity of the quake, stating, “It was really strong… My head even felt dizzy.” Another resident, Marten Mandagi, recounted the moment the earthquake struck, saying, “We had just woken up, and suddenly the earthquake hit… we all ran out of the house.”
In the aftermath, Abdul Muhari, a spokesperson for the disaster management agency, urged continued caution for coastal communities. He stated, “At this stage, caution is still required, particularly for communities living along the coast.” This advice reflects the ongoing concerns about aftershocks and the potential for further seismic activity.
As the region begins to recover, officials are assessing the full extent of the damage and providing assistance to those affected. The earthquake’s impact on infrastructure and the community will be closely monitored in the coming days.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the total number of injuries and the extent of damage across all affected areas. The situation is evolving as authorities continue their assessments and respond to the needs of the population.