Shallow M5.6 earthquake hits Papua, Indonesia (Updated)

An earthquake measuring M5.6 was recorded at 00:04 UTC on September 2, 2026, approximately 159 km (99 miles) west-southwest of Abepura, Indonesia. The depth was estimated at 69.1 km (42.9 miles), based on reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The coordinates, 139.3°E and 3.2°S, place the earthquake in the Papua region of Indonesia, west of the provincial city of Abepura. This area encompasses the northwestern sector of the island of New Guinea, with several remote settlements and tropical forest landscapes.

Given the regional geography, infrastructure such as minor highways, airstrips, and small local ports may be found within the vicinity. Large cities and major transport routes are some distance from the event’s epicenter.

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 shaking intensity was assessed at IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. The significance index is 482 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

Papua, Indonesia is seismically active due to the complex interaction between the Australian Plate and the Pacific Plate. The region is known for frequent moderate to strong earthquakes, especially along the tectonic boundaries and fault systems that traverse the island.

This information was last updated at 01:45 UTC on September 2, 2026.