NORTH SUMATRA / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, a significant earthquake measuring 6.1 in magnitude struck offshore of Indonesia’s North Sumatra province, causing tremors felt across various parts of Sumatra. The event took place at 1:02:23 p.m. western Indonesian time, or 06:02:23 UTC. According to official records, the epicenter was situated in the sea, 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias Regency. The quake’s depth was recorded at 29 kilometers, originating beneath waters to the west of Sumatra.
The BMKG, Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency, pinpointed the earthquake at 0.65 degrees south latitude and 98.32 degrees east longitude. Data on the intensity indicated that North Tapanuli experienced the strongest shaking, with residents reporting an intensity IV. Several areas in West Sumatra also experienced noticeable tremors, including communities in Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam.
Reports of shaking from other regions across Sumatra followed the initial quake. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, known as BNPB, confirmed that the seismic event posed no tsunami threat. In South Nias, residents felt mild shaking lasting approximately three to five seconds. Disaster response agencies began assessing the affected areas shortly after the tremor, although the preliminary national bulletin did not include verified data on casualties or damages.
Authorities confirm absence of tsunami danger
Official intensity recordings indicated that Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam experienced shaking levels between III and IV. Padang Sidempuan, Subulussalam, and South Nias registered intensity III, while Padang Panjang and Central Tapanuli reported levels of II to III. Gunungsitoli’s recorded intensity was II. These measurements demonstrate that the earthquake was felt across multiple provinces, with the intensity varying by location.
Authorities recommended calmness and urged the public to rely solely on official earthquake updates following the offshore seismic activity. Residents were advised to inspect their homes and buildings for any cracks or structural issues. If another strong earthquake occurs, they should move to open spaces. Coastal residents were also advised to avoid beaches in the wake of strong aftershocks, as part of safety precautions issued after the event.
Post-event monitoring remains active after offshore tremor
The latest official earthquake listings available Wednesday continued to report the event as a magnitude 6.1 quake at a depth of 29 kilometers, with the epicenter located 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias. No tsunami warning has been issued according to the most recent official updates. Local disaster teams persisted in their monitoring efforts to determine any effects on communities that experienced the shaking.
The seismic event took place on August 18, as residents throughout western Indonesia received alerts and reports about the offshore quake. Officials continued to guide the public toward verified information and safety instructions. People in affected areas were urged to avoid structures that appeared damaged and stay alert for additional tremors. Confirmed reports maintained that this was a magnitude 6.1 offshore earthquake with no threat of a tsunami.