According to data released by the OCHA, Timor-Leste has a high to very high exposure to seismic activity and tsunamis, with potential earthquake intensity reaching Degree VIII on the Modified Mercalli Scale. Degree VIII implies slight damage to well-built structures; poorly-built structures are heavily damaged, whilst walls, chimneys and monuments fall.
Associated with the seismic risk is liquefaction of the soil. Liquefaction typically occurs where deep sandy or silty sand successions are found in conjunction with shallow water table conditions. These conditions are plausible on the coastal plain underlain by the Suai Formation.