Palu, June 16: A powerful 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia’s Sulawesi Island on Tuesday, triggering strong aftershocks and causing scattered damage across the region, officials said.
The quake shook buildings for more than a minute in Palu, the capital of Central Sulawesi province, prompting panic among residents. Several hospitals evacuated patients, including those on intravenous drips, as a precautionary measure.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake was centred about 43 kilometres east-southeast of Palu at a depth of 10 kilometres. It was followed by multiple aftershocks, the strongest measuring 5.2 magnitude.
Authorities reported damage to buildings and infrastructure in some areas, although there were no immediate reports of fatalities or serious injuries. Officials also confirmed that the earthquake did not pose a tsunami threat.
Indonesia, located along the seismically active Pacific “Ring of Fire,” frequently experiences earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its position on several major tectonic fault lines.
The latest tremor revived memories of the devastating 7.5-magnitude earthquake and tsunami that struck Palu in 2018, killing more than 4,000 people and causing widespread destruction through liquefaction and massive waves.
In another major disaster, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake hit Sulawesi in January 2021, leaving at least 100 people dead and forcing thousands to seek shelter outdoors amid fears of aftershocks.
Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage while monitoring the region for further seismic activity.
