The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) revealed that the 5.1 magnitude earthquake that rocked the northern region of Karakelong Island, Talaud Islands, North Sulawesi, was triggered by normal fault activity due to the drag process in the subduction zone around the region.
"This earthquake originates from a normal fault directed northeast", which occurs on the mainland of Karakelong Island, said Head of the Geological Agency Muhammad Wafid, quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, June 25.
The epicenter of the medium-sized earthquake was detected at a depth of 28 kilometers at coordinates 4.45 degrees North Latitude (LU) and 126.73 degrees East Longitude (BT) in the northern part of Karakelong Island, Talaud Islands, Tuesday night.
According to Wafid, the release of seismic energy occurred due to the mechanism for expanding the earth's crust which was towed in two directions, namely to the west towards the Sangihe Islands and to the east to Halmahera Island.
"This process causes a strain style that forms normal faults," he said.
The Geological Agency noted that the epicenter of the earthquake was on the mainland of Karakelong Island, which was morphologically dominated by mountains, hills, and corrugated plains.
The area is composed of Pratersier-aged rocks to the quarter, including ultramaffic rocks, volcanic sediments, batugamping, as well as aluvial and coastal deposits.
"Litology and soil types at the earthquake site are very diverse, which also affects the level of shock," he said.
Karakelong Island is classified as Land Class C (very dense soft rock/soil) and D (moderate land), while the surrounding islands include Tanah E Class (soft land) which is more prone to shocks.
Although there have been no reports of damage or casualties, the Geological Agency emphasized that Karakelong Island is classified as a Disaster-Prone Area (KRB) for intermediate to high earthquakes. Therefore, the public is advised to remain vigilant and follow earthquake mitigation guidelines from the government.
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"It is important to check the condition of the building independently, stay away from the cliff area, and ensure that the building follows the rules of earthquake-resistant construction," Wafid emphasized.
The Geological Agency added that this earthquake was not expected to cause further harm such as soil cracks, liquefaction, land subsidence, and landslides.
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