Palu Earthquake M6.7 Has No Tsunami Potential, BMKG Advises Residents

Palu has just been shaken by a magnitude 6.7 earthquake. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that the earthquake does not have the potential to trigger a tsunami.

“Modelling results show that this earthquake DOES NOT HAVE TSUNAMI POTENTIAL,” stated the BMKG in its official statement.

The earthquake occurred on Tuesday (16/06/2026) at 10:27 WIB. The epicentre was located at 1.03° S; 120.24° E, specifically on land 42 km southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, at a depth of 10 km.

Based on the location of the epicentre and the depth of the hypocentre, the earthquake is classified as a shallow earthquake caused by active fault activity. Analysis also indicates that the earthquake mechanism involves downward movement, or a normal fault.

The BMKG also released estimates of the shaking intensity and results from instrumental observations. In Palu, the intensity reached scale VI-VII MMI, while Sigi recorded scale V-VI MMI. Scale III MMI was observed in Polewali Mandar, Mamasa, Mamuju, and Pasang Kayu.

Furthermore, scale II-III MMI was recorded in Pinrang, Pare-Pare, Pohuwatu, Boalemo, North Gorontalo Regency, Gorontalo Regency, and North Luwu.

The BMKG also noted nine aftershock activities up until 11:20 WIB, with the largest aftershock reaching magnitude 5.1.

The BMKG confirmed it will continue to monitor the development of aftershock activity and the impact of the earthquake. The public is urged to remain calm and not be influenced by unverified rumours.

“The public is advised to remain calm and not be affected by issues whose truth cannot be accounted for. Please avoid buildings that are cracked or damaged as a result of the earthquake,” explained the BMKG.

“Check and ensure that your residence is sufficiently earthquake-resistant, or that there is no damage caused by the earthquake vibrations that could endanger the stability of the building, before you return indoors.”