Jakarta: A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of the northern Moluccas in Indonesia today, as confirmed by the Indonesian Geophysics Agency. The seismic event occurred at a depth of 81 kilometers, and officials have ruled out the possibility of a tsunami.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, despite the significant magnitude of the earthquake, there have been no reported casualties or damage. The region remains on alert, though residents are relieved by the absence of immediate threats.

The incident comes as Indonesia reflects on the 20th anniversary of the catastrophic tsunami disaster that occurred in December 2004. The calamity, triggered by a 9.1-magnitude earthquake off Sumatra’s coast, claimed approximately 230,000 lives across 12 countries, with Indonesia suffering over 170,000 fatalities.

The 2004 disaster also resulted in the displacement of 1.7 million people, particularly affecting Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, and Thailand. The memory of the tragedy continues to underscore the importance of disaster preparedness and response in the region.