The Times notes that aftershocks and continued seismic activity are possible following the main quake.

Authorized guidance urged people to drop, cover, and hold on indoors, avoid windows, and move to open space if outdoors; drivers were advised to stop safely and stay in their vehicles during shaking.

Initial assessments warned of possible waves up to one meter along parts of Indonesia, but subsequent measurements showed waves only 20 to 30 centimeters, reducing the tsunami risk.

The US Tsunami Warning System had projected coastal waves ranging from 30 centimeters to a meter within the region at first.

Visual footage from local media showed damaged buildings in affected areas, underscoring the immediate impact and response efforts.

Early assessments focused on potential tsunami threats and immediate human responses rather than confirmed structural damage, as information came from various sources.

A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck in the Molucca Sea, about 126 kilometers west-northwest of Ternate, Indonesia, prompting an initial tsunami warning for several countries before later updates suggested a lower threat.

In the initial update, authorities did not confirm widespread structural damage beyond reports of a fatality and several injuries.

Tremors lasted a noticeable duration, with no immediate reports of major damage from on-the-ground correspondents.

Multiple aftershocks occurred, including a notable magnitude-5.5 event, with authorities counting about 11 aftershocks in total.

Initial damage appeared light to moderate in Ternate, including a church and two houses; damage in Bitung was still under assessment.

Reports confirmed a church and two homes damaged in Ternate, with ongoing evaluations in nearby Bitung.