4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Sigi, Central Sulawesi, Due to Palukoro Fault Activity

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) reported a 4.8 magnitude tectonic earthquake that shook the Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, on Saturday (May 16) at 16:34 WITA.

The shallow earthquake, with a depth of 10 kilometers, was centered inland, 21 km north of Sigi. Based on BMKG analysis, the earthquake did not have the potential to trigger a tsunami.

The Head of the Palu Class I Geophysical Station, Djati Cipto Kuncoro, explained that, based on the location of the epicenter and the depth of the hypocenter, the tremors were triggered by activity along an active fault in the area.

“Considering the location of the epicenter and the depth of the hypocenter, the earthquake that occurred was a shallow earthquake caused by activity along the Palukoro Fault,” said Cipto, as reported by Antara, Saturday (May 16).

Geographically, the earthquake’s epicenter is located at coordinates 1.20 degrees North Latitude and 119.89 degrees East Longitude. The impact of the tremors was reportedly felt strongly in several areas with varying intensity scales.

“Based on the estimated shaking map and reports from the public, this earthquake caused tremors in the Sigi Regency with an intensity scale of IV MMI and in the city of Palu with an intensity scale of III MMI,” added Cipto.

As of this report, BMKG has not received reports of building damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. However, seismic activity is still being monitored in the area.

“As of 17:00 WITA, BMKG monitoring showed one aftershock event, with a magnitude of 1.7 and a depth of 5 kilometers,” he said.

The BMKG has urged people in Central Sulawesi, especially in the Sigi Regency and surrounding areas, to remain calm and vigilant. Residents are asked not to believe unverified information or rumors and to always monitor BMKG’s official channels. (Ant/Z-10)