Update: Earthquake slams region near Abepura, Indonesia on Aug. 12 – 6.3 magnitude recorded

Published Sep 8, 2025

SARMI REGENCY, Papua — the U.S. Geological Survey reported that a 6.3 magnitude quake occurred near Abepura Tuesday afternoon.

The tremor, which slammed the area at 08:24 UTC (17:24 local time), was centered about 195 km west-northwest of Abepura. It occurred at a depth of 14 km.

The National Tsunami Center issued a Tsunami statement related to the earthquake, please visit tsunami.gov for the latest information.

Did you feel it?

If you noticed the quake, you can share your experience using the USGS Felt Report form. The agency has so far received 14 reports via its online form from people who report they felt the tremor. The USGS DYFI report indicates that several residents in Aberpura and the surrounding area felt moderate shaking during the earthquake.

DYFI Image

Impact and estimated losses

Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Structure information summary
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick with concrete floor and precast concrete frame with wall construction.

Historical information
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake 246 km southeast of this event struck UK on June 25, 1976 (UTC), with estimated population exposures of 15,000 at intensity VIII and 18,000 at intensity IX or greater, resulting in a reported 6,000 fatalities.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey