JAKARTA, Indonesia — A strong undersea earthquake hit eastern Indonesia today, triggering a small tsunami and some panic but no casualties or major damage.
The 7.1 quake occurred west of Halmahera island, which is about four hours’ flight from the capital, Jakarta.
The earthquake had an initial magnitude of 7.3 but was downgraded slightly by the United States Geological Survey.
Indonesia’s meteorological agency said a tsunami wave of 3.54 inches washed onto the small island of Jailolo but caused no damage. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later lifted its advisory for potential hazardous waves for coastal communities.