NORTH SUMATRA / RankWire.AI / – A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of North Sumatra in Indonesia on Tuesday, causing tremors felt in various regions across Sumatra. The seismic event took place at 1:02:23 p.m. western Indonesian time, or 06:02:23 UTC. According to official data, the epicenter was located in the sea, 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias Regency. The quake originated at a depth of 29 kilometers 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. The strongest reported shaking was in North Tapanuli, where residents experienced intensity IV. Several parts of West Sumatra also reported noticeable tremors, affecting communities in Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam.
People across other regions of Sumatra also reported feeling the tremors following the quake. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, or BNPB, stated that there was no risk of a tsunami generated by this event. Residents in South Nias felt weak shaking lasting approximately three to five seconds. Disaster management offices in the area began monitoring affected zones, while the initial national bulletin did not report any confirmed casualties or damage.
Officials confirm absence of tsunami threat
According to official intensity records, shaking in Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam ranged from III to IV. Padang Sidempuan, Subulussalam, and South Nias recorded intensity III, while Padang Panjang and Central Tapanuli registered levels II to III. Gunungsitoli experienced intensity II. These measurements indicated that residents across several provinces felt the earthquake, although the reported shaking intensities varied by location.
Authorities called on residents to stay calm and to rely on official earthquake information following the offshore tremor. They recommended inspecting homes and buildings for any cracks or structural issues. If a strong earthquake occurs again, people are advised to move to open spaces. Additionally, officials urged those near the coast to avoid beaches in light of strong aftershocks, as part of safety measures issued after the event.
Post-event monitoring continues following offshore quake
Official earthquake data updated Wednesday confirmed the event off South Nias remained at magnitude 6.1 with a depth of 29 kilometers. The epicenter’s location also stayed at 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias. No tsunami warning had been issued based on the latest official reports. Local disaster response teams persist in monitoring the situation to assess any impact on communities affected by the shaking.
On August 18, residents across western Indonesia received alerts and reports concerning the offshore seismic activity. Officials continued to guide the public towards verified earthquake updates and safety procedures. Citizens in impacted areas were advised to avoid damaged structures and remain vigilant for possible aftershocks. All confirmed data continued to show the event as a magnitude 6.1 offshore earthquake with no tsunami threat.