Post by : Rameen Ariff

Indonesia has issued a tsunami warning for the Talaud Islands in North Sulawesi following a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the Philippine Sea on Friday. Authorities are urging residents in coastal areas to remain alert and prepared for any potential danger.

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was located at 7.23° North Latitude and 126.83° East Longitude, roughly 275 kilometers northwest of Karatung Island, North Sulawesi, at a depth of 58 kilometers. Officials described the quake as shallow, caused by subduction activity along a thrust fault.

Coastal regions under the tsunami alert include the Talaud Islands, Bitung City, southern North Minahasa, southern Minahasa, and Supiori in Papua. Residents in these areas are advised to move to higher ground and avoid beaches until authorities lift the warning.

Tremors from the earthquake were strongly felt in Tahuna, reaching intensity IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, meaning the shaking was noticeable to many people indoors. In Manado, tremors were felt at intensity II, with light movement of objects reported. So far, no damage or casualties have been reported.

BMKG has urged the public to stay calm, follow local authorities’ instructions, and avoid spreading unverified information. Emergency services in North Sulawesi are on alert and prepared to respond if the tsunami warning escalates. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and maintain communication with local authorities.

As of 9:14 a.m. Western Indonesia Time, no aftershocks had been detected, though BMKG continues to monitor seismic activity closely. Experts stress the importance of preparedness, as Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

Authorities emphasized that residents’ safety depends on quick action and adherence to official guidance. The warning serves as a precautionary measure to protect lives while monitoring the earthquake’s potential impact on coastal areas.

#world news #Global News #Indonesia News