Death Toll Rises to Three as Central Sulawesi Reels from Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake

The magnitude 6.7 earthquake that shook Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, continues to leave deep sorrow for the community. Several days after the disaster, the casualty count is still being updated as the government and disaster response teams carry out data collection. The latest data shows the death toll from the earthquake has risen to three people. In addition to the fatalities, thousands of residents have been affected and must face various hardships due to damage to homes and public facilities. Amid this situation, the central government, through the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), has ensured that the emergency response process is proceeding optimally to assist the affected communities.

Based on data collection as of Thursday, 18 June 2026, at 13:51 Western Indonesian Time, three people were recorded as having died due to the earthquake that rocked the Central Sulawesi region. The victims came from several affected areas in Sigi Regency, including Ampera Village in Palolo District and Kamarora A Village in Nokilalaki District. In addition to the fatalities, the disaster also caused dozens of injuries. A total of 17 people suffered serious injuries and 91 others sustained minor injuries. The number of affected residents is also quite large, with at least 2,109 families or approximately 6,412 individuals feeling the direct impact of the mid-June earthquake.

The earthquake not only caused casualties but also widespread damage across various areas. Field assessments show at least 1,652 houses were damaged to varying degrees. Of that number, 1,472 houses suffered minor damage, 111 houses moderate damage, and 69 houses severe damage. Damage also occurred to various public facilities that support the daily activities of the community. A total of 42 places of worship were reported affected. In addition, eight government buildings were damaged, including the Sigi Regent’s Office and the BAPPERINDA office. Furthermore, 13 school buildings, two traditional houses, and eight clean water networks were also damaged by the strong tremors. The main earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.7, occurred on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, at 11:27 Central Indonesian Time. According to data from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the epicentre was on land, approximately 42 kilometres southeast of Palu City, specifically in the Parigi Moutong Regency area, at a depth of 10 kilometres.