A significant M6.5 earthquake rocked the Kepulauan Talaud region of Indonesia on January 10, 2026, at 14:58 UTC. The quake was recorded at a depth of 51.6 kilometers (32 miles), with both the USGS and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirming the magnitude and depth.
Epicenter and Affected Areas
The earthquake’s epicenter was situated 246 kilometers (153 miles) north-northwest of Tobelo, 289 kilometers (180 miles) south-southeast of Caburan, and 309 kilometers (192 miles) southeast of Glan. Local populations are as follows:
- Tobelo: 34,150 residents
- Caburan: 12,620 residents
- Glan: 24,255 residents
Shaking Intensity and Impact
Estimated exposure to seismic activity includes:
- 32,000 people experienced strong shaking.
- 61,000 felt moderate shaking.
- 215,000 reported light shaking.
- 148,000 experienced weak shaking.
Tsunami Threat and Safety Alerts
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center announced that there is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake. The USGS issued a Green alert regarding potential shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. Luckily, the probability of casualties and significant damage is low.
Structural Vulnerability
The region’s population resides in a mix of building types, which includes both earthquake-resistant and more vulnerable structures. Notably, many buildings are of miscellaneous and heavy wood frame construction, increasing susceptibility to seismic events.
This earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic activity present in the Indonesia-Philippines region, where preparedness and building resilience remain crucial for protecting lives and infrastructure.
