NORTH SUMATRA / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake rocked off the coast of Indonesia’s North Sumatra province, causing tremors felt across parts of Sumatra. The quake struck 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. It had a depth of 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. Intensity reports indicated the strongest shaking in North Tapanuli, where residents experienced a level IV tremor. Several regions in West Sumatra also experienced noticeable vibrations, including Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam.
Reports of shaking from other parts of Sumatra also emerged following the magnitude 6.1 event. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, or BNPB, confirmed that the quake posed no tsunami threat. In South Nias, residents reported mild shaking lasting about three to five seconds. Disaster agencies began assessing the affected zones immediately after the tremor, and the initial national bulletin did not record any confirmed casualties or damages.
Official sources confirm absence of tsunami risk
Intensity levels reached III to IV in Padang, Padang Pariaman, Pariaman, West Pasaman, and Agam, based on official data. Padang Sidempuan, Subulussalam, and South Nias registered intensity III, while Padang Panjang and Central Tapanuli experienced levels II to III. Gunungsitoli showed intensity II. These readings demonstrate that multiple provinces felt the earthquake, with varying reports of shaking strength depending on the location.
Authorities urged the public to stay calm and follow official earthquake updates after the offshore seismic event. They recommended inspecting buildings for cracks or structural issues and advised moving to open areas if a strong earthquake occurs again. People near the coast were also advised to stay away from beaches in light of aftershocks, as part of the safety protocols issued following the incident.
Post-event monitoring continues following offshore tremor
Official earthquake data available on Wednesday maintained the magnitude at 6.1 with a depth of 29 kilometers. The epicenter’s location remained 147 kilometers southeast of South Nias. To date, no tsunami warning has been issued in connection with this event. Local disaster response teams persist in their monitoring efforts to detect any potential impacts on communities that experienced the tremors.
The quake occurred on August 18, as residents across western Indonesia received alerts and reports regarding the seismic activity offshore. Officials continue to guide the public toward verified information and safety directives. People are advised to avoid structures with visible damage and remain alert to any further tremors. Confirmed reports continue to specify the event as a magnitude 6.1 offshore earthquake with no associated tsunami threat.