BMKG Confirms Central Sulawesi M6.7 Earthquake Triggered by Sausu Fault

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that a tectonic earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 shook the Torue area of Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi, on Tuesday (16/6). The event, which occurred at 10.27 WIB, was triggered by activity on the Sausu Fault and has been confirmed not to have tsunami potential.

BMKG Deputy for Geophysics, Nelly Florida Riama, explained that the earthquake’s epicentre was at a depth of 16 kilometres. Geographically, the epicentre is located at coordinates 1.03 degrees South Latitude and 120.24 degrees East Longitude, approximately 42 kilometres southeast of Palu City. “Modelling results show that this earthquake does not have tsunami potential,” Nelly stressed during a press conference in Jakarta on Tuesday.

BMKG analysis indicates this was a shallow earthquake with a normal fault mechanism. Strong shaking was felt at various points in Central Sulawesi, with the highest intensity reaching VII MMI in Palolo, Sigi Regency. Meanwhile, the Torue and South Parigi areas experienced tremors on the VI to VII MMI scale. The impact of the quake was also felt in Palu and surrounding areas, with Sigi Biromaru recording a V-VI MMI scale. Other regions such as Poso, Donggala, and Pasangkayu also felt tremors with intensities of IV to V MMI.

BMKG received reports of building damage in several affected areas. The most significant damage occurred in Sigi Regency (VII MMI). Additionally, damage was reported in Palu City, North Parigi, and Poso, which were on the VI MMI scale. BMKG urged the public to remain calm and not be provoked by unverified information. Residents are asked to be alert to the potential for aftershocks and to stay away from buildings that have already experienced cracks or structural damage. Official information regarding the situation can be accessed through BMKG communication channels, the InfoBMKG application, and the official InaTEWS website.