Northern Sumatra shaken: Magnitude 4.5 quake strikes amid Ring of Fire activity

Jakarta: A moderate earthquake measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale struck Northern Sumatra, Indonesia, on Wednesday, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). The quake occurred at 10:58 am IST, at a depth of 150 kilometres, with coordinates 2.43°N latitude and 98.98°E longitude.

The NCS confirmed the details in a post on X, highlighting the location and magnitude of the tremor. No immediate reports of casualties or property damage have been received from local authorities.

Indonesia’s earthquake history

Indonesia is one of the most seismically active regions in the world due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, a horseshoe-shaped belt approximately 40,000 km long and 500 km wide, characterised by frequent earthquakes and active volcanoes. The Ring of Fire accounts for about 90 per cent of the world’s earthquakes and two-thirds of its volcanoes, making Indonesia particularly prone to seismic activity.

Earlier, in October 2025, a stronger earthquake of 6.6 magnitude struck West Papua, Indonesia, at a depth of 55 km. This highlights the country’s persistent vulnerability to natural disasters.

Preparedness and risks

Given Indonesia’s geologically active position, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis are recurring hazards affecting millions of people. Local authorities regularly issue advisories and maintain monitoring systems to mitigate the impact of such disasters. Residents in seismic-prone areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols during tremors or other natural events.

The Northern Sumatra quake underscores Indonesia’s ongoing seismic risks and the importance of disaster preparedness in the region. While the 4.5-magnitude tremor is considered moderate, it serves as a reminder of the country’s geophysical vulnerability and the need for constant vigilance.
(With ANI inputs)