Shallow M5.6 earthquake hits offshore Bengkulu, Indonesia

An earthquake with a magnitude of M5.6 was recorded at 00:22 UTC on December 27, 2025, about 191 km (119 miles) south of Bengkulu, Indonesia. The event occurred at a depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles).

Based on the coordinates 102.3°E and 5.5°S, the earthquake was located offshore, south of the Sumatran coast, near the province of Bengkulu. This region borders the Indian Ocean and is characterized by a mix of coastal settlements and remote oceanic zones.

Given its offshore location, the area in question is primarily influenced by maritime transport routes, with the potential proximity of ports and shipping lanes servicing western Sumatra. Other critical infrastructures may include energy installations or subsea cables running through these waters.

There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.

The significance index is 482 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

The region lies within the Sunda subduction zone, where the Indo-Australian Plate is converging beneath the Eurasian Plate. This tectonic boundary is known for generating frequent and sometimes powerful seismic events, including both shallow and deep earthquakes affecting Sumatra and adjacent offshore areas.

This information was last updated at 00:39 UTC on December 27, 2025.