Moderate M5.9 earthquake strikes near Lospalos, Timor Leste on September 11, 2026

A moderate M5.9 earthquake was recorded at 11:56 UTC on September 11, 2026, approximately 253 km (157 miles) east-northeast of Lospalos, Timor Leste, at a depth of 111.8 km (69.5 miles).

The coordinates of the earthquake were 128.9°E and 7.3°S, placing the epicenter in the region east of Timor Leste, within the Banda Sea area. This area is known for its complex tectonic setting, with nearby Lospalos being one of the larger towns on Timor island.

The region features remote islands and is primarily maritime, meaning some transportation infrastructure such as shipping lanes and possibly small regional ports may be in the broader vicinity.

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

The maximum estimated intensity was IV, with 1 felt report submitted to USGS. The significance index is 536 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

The Banda Sea and eastern Indonesia region are situated along the highly active boundary between the Australian Plate and the Eurasian Plate, making it one of the most seismically active areas globally.

This information was last updated at 12:17 UTC on September 11, 2026.