A strong magnitude 4.9 earthquake shook the Savu Sea near Pulau Sumba island, Indonesia, early on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 3:21 AM local time (Asia/Makassar GMT +8). The quake struck at a shallow depth of 47 kilometers (29 miles), which resulted in strong sensations at places near the epicenter.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the quake, noting the intensity of shaking experienced locally. Reports indicated light shaking (IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale) near Waingapu, located just 27 kilometers south of the quake’s epicenter. Residents of Waingapu, with a population of about 35,900, shared experiences of the tremor as they woke up to its moderate shaking.
Other nearby areas also felt tremors, albeit weaker. Ruteng, Kondas, and Labuan Bajo, all located over 90 kilometers away from the epicenter, reported mild sensations classified as weak (III), demonstrating how the earthquake was felt across the region. Even more distant locations such as Kupang, Bali, and even parts of South Sulawesi registered very slight vibrations, categorized as II or very weak, indicating the earthquake's reach stretched over large distances even though the effects diminished.
The shaking intensity and its broad felt area reflect the energy released during the event, estimated at about 1.4 x 1012 joules or roughly equivalent to 338 tons of TNT. Such seismic activities are not uncommon for this region, which lies along the seismic belt known as the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Coinciding with this seismic activity was another moderate event, which was recorded off the coast of Timor-Leste. A magnitude 4.1 earthquake occurred on February 23, 2025, at 7:47 PM (UTC) or at 4:47 AM local time on February 24 (Asia/Jayapura GMT +9). This quake occurred at a depth of just 10 kilometers, predominantly affecting the area southwest of Baucau, Timor-Leste.
The Baku area as well as surrounding towns reported very weak shaking (II) with the nearest major city, Dili, located about 155 kilometers from the epicenter, also feeling the tremors but with no remarkable impacts.
Despite the two earthquakes occurring within hours of each other, the region's preparedness and relatively low population density prevented any major incidents. The Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency of Indonesia (BMKG) played a considerable role by monitoring these seismic activities, providing timely updates and information to the residents and ensuring their safety.
Seismologists expressed their attention to these quakes, particularly following their proximity and magnitudes, as both events highlight the active tectonic activity within this region known for its vulnerabilities. Regular monitoring and community readiness are emphasized as key measures for minimizing risk.
The government and disaster relief agencies remain vigilant, aware of the region's history of tremors and potential for more substantial events. Nationwide, protocols for earthquake response and public education on safety measures are continually supported.
"Earthquakes are frequent here, and we need to stay prepared for anything," said Dr. I Putu Suryawan, a local seismologist. "It's part of living and building resilience in such seismically active region."
Historically, this area has witnessed various seismic events ranging from moderate to severe, leading to reinforced building codes aimed at ensuring infrastructure stability. The authorities encourage all citizens to remain informed and alert for any future occurrences as part of the standard practice for earthquake preparedness.
Local governmental bodies are coordinating with national disaster agencies to disseminate information on safety measures, particularly among communities vulnerable to seismic hazards.
For residents of this beautiful yet dynamic region, which encompasses Indonesia and Timor-Leste, staying abreast of seismic updates becomes not just scientific knowledge but also practical wisdom as they navigate their lives amid nature's whims.
Earthquake preparedness drills and public awareness campaigns will continue as integral strategies moving forward as the tectonic activities persist.