Massive 6.1-magnitude earthquake strikes Timor Island, Eastern Indonesia

In a dramatic turn of events, a massive 6.1-magnitude earthquake hit the island of Timor in eastern Indonesia, sending shockwaves through the provincial capital and forcing residents to evacuate in a state of panic. The US Geological Survey reports that the quake, with its epicenter near the city of Kupang, struck at a depth of 36.1 kilometres (22.5 miles).

Kupang Shaken by Strong Tremors

The earthquake’s tremors were intensely felt in Kupang, a city on Timor island, which is divided between Indonesian territory and the sovereign state of East Timor. According to eyewitness accounts, including from an AFP journalist, the quake led to fallen debris and forced many residents out of their homes. “I was dizzy and at first I thought it was because I was running in the morning,” Yeri, a 40-year-old resident of Kupang, recounted, shocked to see his neighbors fleeing their homes due to the quake’s strength.

Indonesia’s Ongoing Seismic Challenge

Indonesia, known for its frequent seismic disturbances, lies on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” – a hotspot for earthquakes and volcanic activities. This geographical positioning often subjects the country to a series of intense earthquakes. Just last November, Indonesia faced a 5.6-magnitude quake in West Java province, which tragically claimed 602 lives. The recent quake in Timor island, though significant in magnitude, fortunately did not result in any reported casualties, highlighting the ever-present danger and unpredictability of living in one of the most seismically active regions in the world.