Shallow M5.6 earthquake hits near Ende, Indonesia

A shallow earthquake measuring M5.6 was recorded at 18:12 UTC on August 20, 2026, approximately 67 km (42 miles) north-northwest of Ende, Indonesia. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles).

The coordinates of the event were 121.4°E, 8.3°S, situating the epicenter inland on the island of Flores in the eastern region of Indonesia. Ende is the closest significant population center to the north-northwest.

Given the inland location of this earthquake, critical infrastructure in the area may include regional roads, smaller airports, and energy distribution facilities common in the Flores region, though there are no major international transit hubs in close proximity.

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.

Indonesia is situated on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, where the Australian Plate subducts beneath the Eurasian Plate. This region frequently experiences earthquakes due to its tectonic setting along an active subduction zone.

This information was last updated at 18:30 UTC on August 20, 2026.