Magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck off Sabah, Malaysia, at great depth
The focal depth reached 619.8 km, classifying it as a very deep-focus event in the South China Sea region near the northern Borneo coast.
MALAYSIA — A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake occurred on February 23 at 00:57 local time (16:57 UTC February 22), centered approximately 55 km north-northwest of Kota Belud in Sabah at coordinates 6.829°N 116.264°E.
The focal depth reached 619.8 km, classifying it as a very deep-focus event in the South China Sea region near the northern Borneo coast.
Deep-focus earthquakes of this magnitude typically dissipate significant energy before reaching the surface, resulting in moderated shaking compared to shallow quakes.
Reports indicate the tremor was felt across much of Sabah, including Kota Belud, Kudat, and surrounding areas, with some locations experiencing very strong shaking (MMI VII). No tsunami warning was issued, consistent with events originating at depths exceeding 186 miles (300 km).
As of the latest available information, no major damage or casualties have been reported. Malaysian authorities and regional monitoring agencies continue to assess local impacts.