NTB-Bali Earthquake Due To Rock Deformation Activities Inside The Plate

JAKARTA - A tectonic earthquake with a magnitude of 5.2 rocked the southern region of Bali and West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) on Wednesday 8 May 2024 at 06.09 WITA.

According to the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the epicenter of the earthquake was located at sea, 108 kilometers southwest of West Lombok, NTB, at a depth of 82 kilometers.

"This earthquake is caused by rock deformation activity inside the slab (intra-slab) and has a thrust fault mechanism," said Head of the Mataram Geophysics Station, Ardhianto Septiadhi, Wednesday, May 8.

Earthquake tremors were felt in various areas in Bali and NTB, such as Badung, Denpasar, Gianyar, Tabanan, Central Lombok, West Lombok, East Lombok, Mataram City, North Lombok, and West Sumbawa.

The intensity of the earthquake in the area reached III MMI (vibrational vibrations were felt in the house and it seemed as if a truck had passed), while in Karangasem II MMI (vibrations were felt by several people, light objects that were hung swayed).

"Until 06.30 WITA, BMKG has not recorded any aftershocks," he said.

Furthermore, Ardhianto appealed to the public to remain calm and not be consumed by irresponsible issues.

"The public is advised to remain calm and not be influenced by issues that cannot be justified," said Ardhianto.

He also reminded the public to avoid buildings that were cracked or damaged by the earthquake and ensure that their residential buildings were earthquake-resistant enough.

"Check and make sure the building where you live is earthquake-resistant enough, or there is no damage due to earthquake vibrations that endanger the stability of the building before you return to the house," explained Ardhianto.