Basarnas Records Three Minor Injuries Following Earthquake in North Sulawesi

The North Sulawesi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has confirmed that coastal areas, which were previously under a tsunami warning following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, are now relatively safe. However, residents have been advised to remain vigilant in anticipation of potential aftershocks, which continue to occur as of Monday (8/6).

The Head of Basarnas Manado, George Mercy Randang, stated that reports received this morning indicate three individuals sustained minor injuries. “For now, the latest information we have is that there are three minor injuries, and we are still assessing the extent of house damage,” Mercy told reporters on Monday afternoon.

According to the reports, two houses in the Sangihe Islands Regency have sustained light damage. Basarnas teams across North Sulawesi are currently monitoring several areas affected by this morning’s earthquake. Although the BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency) has lifted the tsunami early warning, coastal residents are urged to remain cautious.

Separately, the Head of North Sulawesi BPBD, Adolf H. Tamengkel, noted that several coastal regions, including North Bolaang Mongondow, South Minahasa, Manado, and Bitung, remain on alert status. “Monitoring results show that measured wave heights are very low. In Tahuna, waves were recorded at approximately 0.3 metres, while in Ulu Siau, Sitaro Islands Regency, they were around 0.18 metres,” Adolf told reporters.

He added that tsunami impacts in the island regions did not cause significant damage. In Bitung and Melonguane, wave heights were recorded at only about 30 centimetres, with similar conditions observed in Tahuna and Ulu Siau. Manado has reportedly not experienced any significant impact from the phenomenon.

“If there is any impact, it is extremely minimal. Our primary concern is actually the aftershocks, as they are still occurring,” he explained. The North Sulawesi BPBD continues to monitor and coordinate with the BMKG to ensure the latest situation is tracked. Local authorities have also urged the public, particularly those in coastal and island areas, to follow official government information and avoid unverified news. Furthermore, residents are advised to temporarily postpone non-essential sea travel until conditions are officially declared safe.