Green earthquake (Magnitude 5.5M, Depth:77.167km) in Timor-Leste 21/04/2026 03:17 UTC, 1 million in MMI IV

Summary

Single-source GDELT detection — awaiting independent verification. A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Timor-Leste on April 21, 2026, at 03:17 UTC, with a depth of 77.167 km and potentially affecting 1 million people in areas experiencing MMI IV or greater shaking. The medium-severity classification suggests moderate ground motion but limited structural damage expectations given the relatively deep focus.

Supply-chain impact

No commodities or chokepoints are directly mapped to this event; second-order effects depend on how the situation escalates and whether independent reporting confirms significant infrastructure damage or operational disruptions in the small island nation.

Watch points

• Monitor for independent seismic agency confirmations and damage assessments from Timor-Leste authorities
• Track potential aftershock sequences that could compound initial impacts on local infrastructure
• Watch for reports of port or airport operational status given the country's isolation and import dependence