Whale stranded on Makian island`s coast, North Maluku

"After lying on the beach for a few hours, the whale finally died. Whales are often spotted in Makian Island waters but it`s for the first time a 10-meter long whale got stranded on Makian Island`s coast," Ismet said.

It was not known how the whale became stranded but it was believed the giant mammal had lost its way on the many tiny isles around Makian Island.

Ismet said Makian residents believed the stranded whale was a sign that a tsunami might hit the area which has been jolted by frequent earthquakes lately.