Indonesia: M6.8 earthquake triggers brief tsunami warning
Earthquake in Indonesia prompts brief tsunami warning for Sulawesi
The United States Geological Survey reported a magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck just off Indonesia's island of Sulawesi on Friday evening, with people initially being urged to evacuate to higher ground.
"It is clear that the quake has tsunami potential," said geophysics agency spokesman Taufan Maulana, as quoted by Reuters news. "Residents are advised to evacuate as soon possible."
Indonesia's geophysics agency ended the tsunami warning about 40 minutes after being issued, but were continuing to monitor for high waves and advised people to remain vigilant.
There were no immediate reports of damage or injury following the quake, which the USGS said was centered abouter 100 km south of Luwuk, Indonesia.
PANIC THROUGHOUT PALU
The epicenter of the quake was also felt strongly in the central Sulawesi city of Palu, which was devastated by an earthquake and tsunami back in September, killing more than 4,000 people. Local residents were seen flooding the streets in panic following Friday's tremor.
Indonesia is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire."
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With files from Reuters and CBS News