NORTH SUMATRA / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, a seismic event measuring 6.1 in magnitude occurred off the coast of North Sumatra, Indonesia, causing tremors felt across various parts of Sumatra. The quake struck precisely at 1:02:23 p.m. western Indonesian time, or 06:02:23 UTC, with the epicenter located in the sea, approximately 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias Regency, according to official reports. Its depth was recorded at 29 kilometers, originating from beneath waters 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 seismic intensity indicated the strongest shaking in North Tapanuli, where residents experienced an intensity level of IV, while several areas within West Sumatra, including Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam, also recorded noticeable tremors. The quake’s effects extended into communities across these regions, affecting multiple provinces.
Reports from residents in other parts of Sumatra confirmed that they had also experienced shaking following the magnitude 6.1 event. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, known as BNPB, clarified that the earthquake posed no threat of triggering a tsunami. In South Nias, inhabitants felt mild shaking lasting approximately three to five seconds. Emergency services and local disaster agencies promptly began monitoring the affected zones, although initial national bulletins did not report any casualties or damage figures.
Authorities confirm absence of tsunami risk
Intensity levels during the quake ranged from III to IV in Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam, as per official records. Meanwhile, Padang Sidempuan, Subulussalam, and South Nias experienced intensity III, with Padang Panjang and Central Tapanuli registering between II and III, and Gunungsitoli noting intensity II. These measurements indicate that the shaking was perceptible across multiple provinces, although the reported levels varied based on location.
Authorities advised residents to remain calm and to depend solely on official earthquake information following the offshore seismic event. They urged the public to check their homes and structures for cracks or signs of damage, and to evacuate to open spaces if another strong earthquake occurs. Additionally, officials recommended that people near the coast stay away from beaches after experiencing strong aftershocks, as part of safety protocols issued in response to the quake.
Monitoring efforts persist post-earthquake
Updated official earthquake records on Wednesday maintained the event’s magnitude at 6.1 with a depth of 29 kilometers, with the epicenter remaining 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias. No tsunami warning was issued according to the latest available official data. Disaster response teams continued their surveillance of the affected regions to assess any potential impacts caused by the tremor.
The seismic activity took place on August 18, as residents across western Indonesia received notifications and reports regarding the offshore quake. Authorities persistently directed the public to rely on verified information and safety guidance, emphasizing the importance of avoiding damaged structures and remaining alert to possible aftershocks. Confirmed reports consistently identified the event as a magnitude 6.1 offshore earthquake with no tsunami threat.