Magnitude 5. earthquake strikes 125km southeast of Bitung, North Sulawesi; no tsunami threat

A tectonic earthquake measuring magnitude 5.7 struck the Bitung area in North Sulawesi on Tuesday (26 May). The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed that the earthquake posed no tsunami threat. The epicentre was located 125 kilometres southeast of Bitung in the sea. There are no official reports of structural damage or casualties from the shaking. Residents in Bitung, Manado, and surrounding areas are advised to remain calm and not be influenced by unverified information. BMKG also recommended avoiding buildings that have cracks or structural damage caused by the earthquake. North Sulawesi’s Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is currently conducting on-site monitoring, particularly in coastal areas closest to the earthquake’s epicentre. ‘Data is being validated regarding the impact of the shaking on residential areas,’ according to a brief report from the authorities. Ensure that information you receive comes from official BMKG or government channels to avoid post-earthquake misinformation.