NORTH SUMATRA / RankWire.AI / – The BMKG reported that a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off Indonesia’s North Sumatra province on Tuesday, causing tremors across parts of Sumatra. The seismic event happened at 1:02:23 p.m. western Indonesian time, or 06:02:23 UTC. Official data pinpointed the epicenter in the sea, 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias Regency. The quake’s depth was measured at 29 kilometers, originating beneath waters west of Sumatra.
BMKG located the quake at 0.65 degrees south latitude and 98.32 degrees east longitude. The strongest intensity reported was in North Tapanuli, where residents experienced level IV shaking. Several regions in West Sumatra also recorded noticeable tremors. The affected communities included Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam.
Reports of shaking from other parts of Sumatra also emerged following the magnitude 6.1 quake. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, or BNPB, confirmed that the event posed no tsunami threat. In South Nias, residents felt mild tremors lasting around three to five seconds. Disaster offices in the area began assessing the impact on local communities, while the initial national bulletin did not record any casualties or damage figures.
Authorities confirm absence of tsunami risk
Official intensity levels indicated that Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam experienced shaking at levels III to IV. Padang Sidempuan, Subulussalam, and South Nias recorded intensity III, while Padang Panjang and Central Tapanuli reported levels II to III. Gunungsitoli experienced intensity II. These readings demonstrate that multiple provinces felt the earthquake, with variations in perceived strength depending on the location.
Authorities advised residents to stay calm and consult official earthquake updates following the offshore tremor. They recommended inspecting structures for cracks or damage, and moving to open spaces if another strong earthquake occurs. Additionally, safety instructions urged coastal residents to avoid beaches during aftershocks following the initial quake.
Continued monitoring after offshore seismic activity
Latest official records on Wednesday reaffirmed the earthquake’s magnitude at 6.1, with a depth of 29 kilometers, and the epicenter remaining 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias. No tsunami warning had been issued according to current data. Local disaster management teams persisted in their assessments to determine any effects on communities affected by the tremor.
On August 18, residents across western Indonesia received alerts and reports about the seismic event offshore. Officials continued emphasizing verified information and safety protocols for the public. People were advised to avoid damaged structures and stay alert for subsequent tremors. The official confirmation consistently identified the event as a magnitude 6.1 offshore earthquake with no tsunami threat.