Strong quake jolts Morotai

Strong quake jolts Morotai

AMBON, Maluku: An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter
scale shook the northern regency of Morotai on Thursday, an
official said yesterday.

Chief of the local meteorologic and geophysics office, Hendry
Subakti, said that the government had not yet obtained detailed
information regarding possible casualties and damage due to poor
communication.

The quake occurred at 11.18 a.m. local time, Antara reported.

Hendry called on local people, especially fishermen, to remain
alert to the danger of aftershocks that could cause lethal tidal
waves in the quake area.

He said another powerful tremor had also jolted Piru District
in Central Maluku on Wednesday but that there nad been no reports
of casualties. (rms)