BMKG Records 1,176 Aftershocks Following M6.7 Earthquake in Central Sulawesi

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded a total of 1,176 aftershocks since a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Central Sulawesi on Tuesday, 16 June. Djati Cipto Kuncoro, Head of the BMKG’s Class I Geophysics Station in Palu, stated on Sunday that monitoring of seismic activity up to 21 June 2026 had logged 1,176 aftershocks of varying intensity. According to BMKG data, following the peak magnitude 6.7 event, the largest aftershock recorded was magnitude 5.3, while the smallest was magnitude 1.4. The agency also monitored approximately 49 aftershocks that were felt by residents, with parameters indicating depths of less than 10 kilometres. “The possibility of further aftershock activity cannot be ruled out. We continue to provide updates on developments through official BMKG channels and government information channels,” he said. He urged the public to remain calm and avoid buildings that were damaged after the major quake. Furthermore, he stressed that independent mitigation must be enhanced to strengthen vigilance against adverse situations, as good mitigation can minimise the risks posed by earthquake impacts. “Mitigation is a crucial part of facing disasters. Every individual must be able to manage themselves in critical situations, with the aim of avoiding the risk of casualties,” Djati stated. Data compiled by the Sigi Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) indicates that the number of damaged houses in the regency has reached 2,335 units, comprising 1,955 lightly damaged, 226 moderately damaged, and 154 heavily damaged homes. The total number of affected and displaced residents has risen to 8,586 individuals from 2,775 families, with details of 17 seriously injured, 108 lightly injured, and three fatalities.