Indonesia has been hit by a massive 7.1 magnitude earthquake prompting fears of a possible tsunami in the region home to thousands of sprawling, low-lying islands. The massive quake struck in the Moluccan sea between the islands of Sulawesi and North Maluku island at 4.08pm BST (12.08am local time). Indonesia lies along the notorious Ring of Fire belt, responsible for 90 percent of the world’s earthquakes. California, USA, which also sits along the Ring of Fire, was rocked by a 7.1 magnitude quake on Friday night.
Has a tsunami warning been issued?
Authorities have issued a tsunami warning to islanders.
Indonesia’s geophysics agency said the quake struck at a depth of 10 kilometres.
The nearest coastlines could be struck by waves measuring half a metre (1.6 feet) high.
More than 200,000 people have scrambled to higher ground in the city of Ternate, North Maluku, located 93 miles from the epicentre of Indonesia.
There are no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake as being 6.9 magnitude in strength.
More to follow.