Central Sulawesi Governor Declares 7-Day State of Emergency After M6.7 Earthquake

The Provincial Government of Central Sulawesi (Sulteng) has declared a state of emergency after four districts and cities were affected by a magnitude 6.7 earthquake. The quake has impacted thousands of residents and damaged buildings. The emergency response status was established through Governor’s Decree Number 300 2.1/195/BPBD-C-ST/2026, effective for seven days from 17 to 23 June. Governor Anwar Hafid stated that the emergency status covers the regencies of Sigi, Parigi Moutong, Poso, and the city of Palu. These areas were impacted by the earthquake resulting from activity along the active Palu Koro fault. The governor noted that the earthquake’s impact resulted in infrastructure damage, loss of life, and disruption to community life in the affected areas. He added that the government has allocated disaster management funds from the 2026 Regional Budget (APBD). The budget will be prioritised to meet the basic needs of survivors, such as clean water, medicine, and urgently needed refugee tents. To date, aid has been distributed to 550 affected families. Governor Hafid indicated that the emergency status could be extended based on needs on the ground and the developing situation. Joint teams are continuing to collect data to ensure all aid is distributed evenly at evacuation points.