A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Indonesia early Thursday, triggering warnings of possible tsunami activity across parts of the region.
The tremor, according to the United States Geological Survey, occurred at about 6:48 a.m. local time at a depth of 35 kilometres in the Molucca Sea, near the island of Ternate.
Following the quake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued an alert, warning that hazardous waves could affect coastal areas within 1,000 kilometres of the epicentre, including parts of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
The earthquake caused panic in nearby cities such as Manado, where residents rushed out of their homes as buildings shook.
Witnesses said the tremor lasted for several seconds, forcing people to seek safety in open areas.
Despite the strong shaking, initial reports indicate no immediate signs of major structural damage in affected areas.
Emergency officials have advised residents in low-lying coastal communities to remain alert as monitoring of sea levels continues.
Indonesia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes and volcanic activity.
Authorities are expected to release further updates as assessments continue, particularly in remote areas closer to the epicentre.
