Eastern Indonesia Hit by Powerful Quake, One Dead as Government Rushes Aid to North Maluku and North Sulawesi

2 April 2026

A powerful undersea earthquake measuring between 7.4 and 7.6 magnitude struck eastern Indonesia’s North Maluku and North Sulawesi provinces, rattling communities across the Molucca Sea region and prompting a swift government response to contain damage and ensure public safety.

The quake, centered near Ternate in the Molucca Sea, caused panic as strong tremors lasting up to 20 seconds sent residents fleeing homes, offices, and places of worship. In Manado and surrounding areas, buildings swayed violently, with some structures sustaining visible cracks and partial collapse. Authorities have confirmed one fatality a 70-year-old woman killed by falling debris along with several injuries, while damage to homes, churches, and a sports facility has been reported. Despite the quake’s strength, officials say destruction remains localized rather than widespread.

In the immediate aftermath, Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency, National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), deployed emergency response teams to the affected provinces. Search and rescue personnel were dispatched to assess damage, assist victims, and ensure no one remained trapped under debris. Medical teams in local hospitals were placed on high alert, treating the injured and preparing for potential aftershock-related emergencies.

The government also moved quickly to issue tsunami warnings across eastern Indonesia and nearby coastal regions. Although small waves of less than one meter were recorded, the warnings were lifted within hours after authorities confirmed no major tsunami threat. Residents living along coastal areas were still urged to remain cautious as conditions continue to be monitored.

Indonesia’s meteorological agency, Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), has recorded dozens of aftershocks, some exceeding magnitude 5. Officials warned that these tremors could further weaken already damaged structures. As a precaution, residents have been advised to avoid entering compromised buildings and to remain in safer open spaces.

Emergency shelters have been established across parts of North Maluku and North Sulawesi to house displaced families. Authorities are distributing food supplies, clean water, and essential items while conducting structural inspections to determine which buildings are safe. Schools and several public facilities have also been temporarily closed as a safety measure.

President Joko Widodo has been briefed on the situation and instructed all relevant agencies to accelerate relief efforts. He emphasized the need for rapid coordination and long-term preparedness, noting Indonesia’s vulnerability to earthquakes due to its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

While the immediate impact appears limited compared to past disasters, officials caution that risks remain due to ongoing aftershocks. Recovery and assessment efforts are expected to continue in the coming days as authorities work to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of affected communities.