Indonesia: A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in the northern Molucca Sea at around 22:52 April 30

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in the northern Molucca Sea at around 22:52 April 30. The epicenter was about 154 km (96 miles) west-northwest of Tobelo, North Maluku Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 17 km (11 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of northern and central North Maluku and northeastern and eastern North Sulawesi provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-moderate aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.