BMKG Addresses Liquefaction Potential After M 6.7 Earthquake in Palu

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has responded to public concerns regarding the potential for liquefaction following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. The agency stated that the possibility of such a phenomenon remains, although no official reports of liquefaction or landslides have been received following the latest tremor. Liquefaction is a sensitive issue for the public because Palu previously experienced a catastrophic event during the magnitude 7.5 earthquake in 2018, which caused widespread damage and significant loss of life. Consequently, every time a strong earthquake occurs in the region, the potential for liquefaction becomes one of the primary concerns for both the community and the government. BMKG Director of Earthquakes and Tsunamis, Wijayanto, said that liquefaction potential does indeed still exist after the earthquake that shook Palu. However, he emphasised that the phenomenon does not occur in all affected areas, but only in specific regions with particular geological characteristics. “Liquefaction does not happen everywhere. It only occurs in certain areas, where the region is sandy and there is potential for water to rise, and so on,” Wijayanto stated during a press conference. This explanation indicates that soil conditions are the main factor determining whether an area is susceptible to liquefaction. BMKG explained that liquefaction generally occurs in areas with layers of sandy soil that are saturated with water. When a strong earthquake strikes, the soil structure can lose its strength and behave like a liquid. This condition can cause buildings, roads and other infrastructure to shift or sink into the ground. During the 2018 Palu earthquake, several areas experienced liquefaction, resulting in massive destruction. Given that experience, areas with similar geological characteristics are now being closely monitored following the magnitude 6.7 earthquake that occurred this morning. While acknowledging the possibility of liquefaction, BMKG expressed hope that the impact would not be as severe as the disaster that occurred eight years ago.