M 7.2 - off the west coast of northern Sumatra

Name: M 7.2 - off the west coast of northern Sumatra
Start: 2012-01-10T18:36:59+00:00
Location: off the west coast of northern Sumatra

January 10, 2012 at 18:36:59 UTC

Depth: 19.00 km (Shallow)

Key Takeaway

This major earthquake (M7.2) occurred 14 years ago near off the west coast of northern Sumatra, at a depth of 19.00 km (shallow). It was felt by 81 people.

M 7.2

Major

N/A

PAGER Alert

Tsunami

Felt Reports

Event Details

Magnitude	7.2 mww
Depth	19.00 km (Shallow)
Location	2.4330N, 93.2100E
Community Intensity	VI (Strong)
Mercalli Intensity	III (Weak)
Felt Reports (DYFI)	81 people
Tsunami Warning	No
Significance	847 / 3000
Status	Reviewed
Network	us
USGS Event Page	View on USGS →

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the magnitude of this earthquake?

This earthquake had a magnitude of 7.2, classified as "Major". Major earthquakes can cause serious damage over large areas.

How deep was this earthquake?

This earthquake occurred at a depth of 19.00 km, classified as "Shallow". Shallow earthquakes tend to cause more damage at the surface because the energy has less distance to travel before reaching buildings and infrastructure.

Where exactly did this earthquake occur?

This earthquake occurred near off the west coast of northern Sumatra, at coordinates 2.4330N, 93.2100E. The location is determined by analyzing seismic wave arrival times at multiple monitoring stations.

Were there aftershocks associated with this event?

Aftershock data for this specific event can be explored by viewing nearby recent earthquakes listed below on this page. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that occur in the same area following a larger event, and they can continue for days, weeks, or even months depending on the original earthquake's magnitude.

What does the magnitude of this earthquake mean in practical terms?

A magnitude 7.2 earthquake is classified as "Major" — these can cause serious damage to buildings and infrastructure across a wide area, especially near the epicenter.

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