JAKARTA, INDONESIA – A powerful 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck the northern coast of Indonesia on Tuesday, triggering panic among residents and raising concerns about potential aftershocks.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles), making it more likely to cause significant ground shaking. The epicenter was located off the coast of North Sulawesi, an area prone to seismic activity due to Indonesia’s position along the Pacific “Ring of Fire.”
Authorities have not yet reported any casualties or major damage, but emergency response teams have been dispatched to assess the situation. Residents in coastal areas briefly evacuated their homes out of fear of a possible tsunami, though Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) later confirmed that no tsunami warning had been issued.
Local officials urged the public to remain cautious, as aftershocks could follow in the coming hours or days. “We are monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with local governments to ensure public safety,” said a spokesperson for Indonesia’s disaster management agency.
Indonesia, one of the world’s most earthquake-prone nations, frequently experiences tremors due to its location on multiple tectonic plate boundaries. In recent years, the country has suffered several deadly earthquakes and tsunamis, including the 2018 Sulawesi quake that claimed thousands of lives.
As assessments continue, authorities are advising residents to stay alert and follow official updates regarding safety measures and potential further seismic activity.
