BMKG Records The Frequency Of Aftershocks In East Flores Begins To Decrease

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JAKARTA - The Coordinator for Earthquake and Tsunami Mitigation, Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Daryono said the frequency of aftershocks in East Flores had begun to decline.

Since the earthquake measuring 7.4 on Tuesday, December 14, there have been 663 aftershocks. Aftershocks are said to be a common phenomenon after a major earthquake.

Daryono said the aftershocks showed a downward trend in both intensity and frequency. The community has been able to return to their activities, but the public is still asked to be vigilant.

"There have been 663 aftershocks. The frequency of aftershocks has decreased. People are expected not to worry too much, but remain vigilant. This is a common phenomenon that occurs after a large earthquake occurs," said Daryono in his statement, Saturday, December 18.

Daryono said that the earthquake, which was centered at 7.59 south latitude and 122.24 east longitude, was previously felt strongly by people in 18 districts in 3 provinces, including 9 districts in East Nusa Tenggara, 3 districts/cities in South Sulawesi and 6 districts/cities in Sulawesi. Southeast.

In addition, the earthquake, which was followed by a tsunami early warning from the BMKG, also traumatized some residents in the Selayar Islands Regency.

The trauma in question is the residents' memories of the strong earthquake that occurred on December 12, 1992 and triggered a tsunami that also affected the Selayar Islands.

"This psychological factor raises residents' concerns, so that as many as 5,064 people chose to flee to a safer location," he explained.

According to a report from the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of the Selayar Islands Regency, some residents to this day still choose to live in emergency tents built using tarpaulins.

"It is hoped that the affected people will not be too worried and optimistic that conditions will recover soon. Along with the decay of energy after the earthquake, it is hoped that all community activities can return to normal soon," said Daryanto.