Magnitude 7.4 Quake Off Ternate Triggers Tsunami Warning

What happened?

On April 2, 2026 at 02:57 UTC, a massive earthquake struck the Molucca Sea, just off the island of Ternate in Indonesia. The quake registered a magnitude of 7.4, making it one of the strongest seismic events in the region in recent years. The tremor was felt across the North Maluku province and as far as the nearby islands of Sulawesi and Maluku. Within minutes of the quake, the Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas nearest the epicenter.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The epicenter was located roughly 100 kilometers west of Ternate, at a depth of about 10 kilometers beneath the sea floor. This location places the quake in the Molucca Sea, a region known for complex tectonic interactions between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The quake’s shallow depth amplified the shaking on the surface, raising concerns about potential damage to infrastructure and landslides on nearby islands.

How strong was the quake?

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the magnitude as 7.4, classifying it as a “major” earthquake. Such an event releases energy equivalent to several hundred kilotons of TNT, enough to cause severe shaking in populated areas. In Ternate, local residents described the ground swaying violently for up to 30 seconds, and some reported feeling aftershocks within the first hour.

Was a tsunami warning issued?

Yes. Shortly after the earthquake was detected, BMKG activated a tsunami warning for the coastal provinces of North Maluku, West Papua, and parts of Sulawesi. The warning advised people living in low‑lying areas to evacuate immediately to higher ground. Sirens were heard in Ternate and surrounding towns, and local media broadcast continuous updates. The warning was lifted after about two hours when sea‑level gauges showed no significant wave activity.

What are the authorities doing?

Emergency response timeline

The Indonesian government mobilised its disaster response agencies, including the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and the local police, to assess the situation. Emergency shelters were opened in schools and community centres, and search‑and‑rescue teams were placed on standby. BMKG continued to monitor aftershocks and provide real‑time information to the public through social media and SMS alerts.

“We are closely monitoring the aftershock activity and coordinating with local officials to ensure the safety of residents,” said a spokesperson for BMKG.

Are there any reports of casualties or damage?

As of the latest updates, there have been no confirmed deaths, though several people suffered minor injuries from falling debris. Structural damage has been reported in a handful of buildings in Ternate, including a collapsed roof on a market and cracks in a local hospital. Power outages affected a small number of neighborhoods, but most services have been restored. The full extent of damage is still being evaluated, and authorities caution that the situation could change as more information comes in.

How can residents stay safe?

Residents in affected areas should continue to follow official guidance. If a tsunami warning is still in effect, they should avoid returning to low‑lying zones until authorities announce it is safe. It is advisable to keep an emergency kit, stay informed through reliable sources, and know the location of the nearest evacuation centre. Even after the warning is lifted, aftershocks can occur, so staying alert is crucial.

For the latest updates, monitor the official BMKG website, local news outlets, or follow the hashtags #TernateQuake and #TsunamiWarning on social media.