Post-North Sulawesi Earthquake, Manado Residents' Activities Return to Normal

Activities of residents in Manado City, North Sulawesi, have reportedly returned to normal following a magnitude 7.3 earthquake that shook the region on Thursday morning (2/4). Although it initially caused concern, the pulse of the economy and public mobility is beginning to recover.

Spokesperson for Basarnas Manado, Nuriadin Gumeleng, confirmed that the situation on the ground is now conducive. However, his team continues to conduct in-depth data collection to ensure all damage impacts and affected victims are properly accommodated.

Based on preliminary data gathered by Basarnas, the earthquake claimed lives and caused injuries. “For victims, two people have been recorded so far. One person died and the other sustained injuries,” Nuriadin stated.

In addition to fatalities, infrastructure damage is also being identified. One public building significantly affected is the Manado KONI Sports Building.

“The evacuation of victims from this sports building has been completed. For other damage impacts, they are still in the data collection stage by the field team,” he added.

Nuriadin explained that overall, Manado residents have returned to their normal activities. Crowded centres and protocol roads no longer show panic as they did during the morning tremors.

“Residents’ activities are normal,” he emphasised briefly.

Previously, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported a major earthquake shaking the southeastern area of Bitung City, North Sulawesi, at 06:48 WITA.

Authorities advise the public to remain alert to the potential for aftershocks and to always monitor official information from BMKG or BNPB channels to avoid disinformation.