The epicenter of the earthquake was about 120km (75 miles) from Ternate, in Indonesia’s North Maluku province.
Published On 1 Apr 2026
On April 1, 2026, a significant magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Northern Molucca Sea near Ternate, Indonesia. The seismic event resulted in at least one fatality and prompted a tsunami warning, which has since been rescinded.
Main Details
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) initially recorded the quake’s magnitude as 7.8, which was later adjusted to 7.4. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 35km (22 miles), a deeper measurement than the preliminary report of 10km (six miles). Thankfully, there have been no immediate reports of injuries aside from the fatal incident.
Located approximately 120km (75 miles) from Ternate in Indonesia’s North Maluku province, the earthquake alarmed local authorities. Residents in cities like Ternate and Tidore were advised to prepare for potential evacuations as news media showcased damage to structures in the area.
In the city of Manado, North Sulawesi province, a building collapse resulted in a fatality. George Leo Mercy Randang, a local search and rescue official, reported to AFP that the individual was trapped under debris. He also noted that an additional person sustained a leg injury during the incident.
The Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) initially claimed that dangerous tsunami waves could reach up to 1,000 kilometres (621 miles) from the epicenter, affecting the coasts of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Shortly after the earthquake, waves measuring up to 75 centimetres were observed in North Minahasa and 20 centimetres in Bitung, both situated on the northern coast of Sulawesi Island. Additionally, 30-centimetre waves were recorded in North Maluku province.
However, the PTWC lifted its tsunami warning just over two hours after the tremor, concluding that the threat had passed. Indonesia’s geographic location along the Pacific Ring of Fire places it in a region with frequent seismic activity due to the convergence of tectonic plates.
Key Takeaways
- A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Northern Molucca Sea near Ternate, Indonesia.
- The quake resulted in one death from a building collapse in Manado.
- Initial tsunami warnings were issued but were lifted a few hours later.
- Waves were recorded up to 75 centimeters in some areas.
- The earthquake occurred at a depth of 35 kilometers.
- Indonesia is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for its seismic activity.
FAQ
What was the magnitude of the earthquake?
The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.4, revised from an initial report of 7.8.
Where was the epicenter located?
The epicenter was approximately 120 km (75 miles) from Ternate in North Maluku province.
Were there any tsunami risks?
Yes, initial tsunami warnings were issued but were lifted shortly after confirming the threat had passed.
What was the depth of the earthquake?
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 35 kilometers (22 miles).
How many people were injured?
Aside from the confirmed fatality, one person sustained a leg injury due to the earthquake.
