The quake occurred at 04:37 a.m. local time (2137 GMT Saturday), with its epicenter located 17 km southwest of North Tapanuli (Tapanuli Utara) regency, at a depth of 131 km below the surface.

The tremors were felt in surrounding areas, registering an intensity of III on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale in both Central Tapanuli (Tapanuli Tengah) regency and Gunungsitoli town. No immediate reports of damage or casualties have been confirmed by local authorities.

Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is highly susceptible to seismic activity, including frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The Pacific Ring of Fire is a tectonic zone known for its intense seismic and volcanic activity, which spans several countries in the region.

Authorities are monitoring the situation for potential aftershocks or further seismic events. (ILKHA)