Shallow M5.8 earthquake hits near Tambolaka, Indonesia

A shallow M5.8 earthquake was recorded at 06:44 UTC on May 5, 2026, approximately 76 km (47 miles) south of Tambolaka, Indonesia. The hypocenter was measured at a depth of 35.5 km (22.1 miles), according to official data from USGS.

The coordinates of the event are 119.3°E, 10.1°S, placing it south of Sumba Island, in proximity to the southern coastal region of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. This area is characterized by scattered fishing communities with Tambolaka being the nearest main town.

Given the coastal and island geography of this region, essential infrastructure includes inter-island ferry routes, ports, local road networks, and small airports serving regional travel and logistics needs.

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

USGS issued a green alert for this event, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or damage. The maximum estimated intensity was IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. The significance index is 518 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

Indonesia sits on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Australian Plate converges with the Eurasian Plate, making it prone to frequent and sometimes significant seismic activity.

This information was last updated at 07:13 UTC on May 5, 2026.