A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia in the early hours of Thursday, triggering widespread panic and a high-level tsunami warning. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter was located in the Molucca Sea, approximately 119 km west-northwest of Ternate, at a depth of about 66 km. The US Tsunami Warning System has alerted coastal regions within a 1,000-km radius, with potential threats extending to the Philippines and Malaysia.

The tremors were felt most intensely in North Sulawesi, where reports of structural damage, including a collapsed sports facility and several houses, have emerged. Footage circulating on social media shows terrified students and residents rushing into the streets as buildings shook violently. This massive seismic event has revived haunting memories of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which claimed over 2.3 lakh lives. Authorities are currently monitoring the coastlines for any abnormal wave activity, while emergency services remain on high alert.