NORTH SUMATRA / RankWire.AI / – A seismic event measuring 6.1 in magnitude occurred off the coast of Indonesia’s North Sumatra province on Tuesday, leading to tremors felt across various parts of Sumatra. The quake struck at 1:02:23 p.m. western Indonesian time, or 06:02:23 UTC. According to official sources, the epicenter was located in the sea, approximately 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias Regency. The seismic activity had a depth of 29 kilometers, originating 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 the intensity indicated that North Tapanuli experienced the strongest shaking, with residents reporting intensity IV. Several regions in West Sumatra, including Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam, also felt noticeable tremors. The quake impacted communities across these areas.
People in other parts of Sumatra also reported feeling the tremor following the magnitude 6.1 quake. The BNPB, Indonesia’s National Disaster Mitigation Agency, clarified that the event posed no tsunami threat. Residents in South Nias experienced weak shaking lasting about three to five seconds. Local disaster agencies began assessing the affected zones after the tremor, while initial national reports did not confirm any casualties or damage.
Tsunami alert remains unissued, officials confirm
According to official intensity data, Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam recorded shaking levels between III and IV. Padang Sidempuan, Subulussalam, and South Nias registered intensity III, while Padang Panjang and Central Tapanuli measured between II and III. Gunungsitoli experienced intensity II. The reports indicated that the earthquake was felt across multiple provinces, although the severity of shaking varied by location.
Authorities advised residents to stay calm and rely solely on official earthquake updates following the offshore tremor. They recommended inspecting homes and structures for possible cracks or damages. If a stronger earthquake occurs again, residents are urged to move to open spaces. Officials also instructed those near the coast to avoid beaches after strong aftershocks as part of the safety measures issued in response to the event.
Post-event monitoring persists after offshore seismic activity
Official earthquake records available on Wednesday maintained the magnitude of the South Nias quake at 6.1, with a depth of 29 kilometers. The epicenter remained 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias. No tsunami warning had been issued based on the latest official data. Local disaster response teams continued their monitoring efforts to determine any impact on communities that experienced the tremors.
The seismic event took place on August 18, as residents across western Indonesia received alerts and reports regarding the offshore earthquake. Officials emphasized the importance of consulting verified information and following local safety protocols. People were advised to avoid structures with visible damage and to stay alert for additional tremors. Confirmed reports continue to classify the event as a magnitude 6.1 offshore earthquake, with no tsunami threat.