Although Rocked By A Strong Earthquake, Southwest Maluku Residents Don't Panic

Southwest Maluku Earthquake/Photo: BMKG

SOUTHWEST MALUKU - The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported a strong earthquake of magnitude (M) 6.1 on Wednesday, February 2 in the morning, did not make people in Southwest Maluku panic. Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) Southwest Maluku Regency said the strong shock was felt for 3-5 seconds. "Although the shaking was strong, according to the local BPBD, the community did not panic," said the acting Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Center Abdul Muhari in a written statement, Wednesday, February 2. under control and there has been no report of the impact of the damage until this morning, Wednesday (2/2). The epicenter, which was at a depth of 131 km, did not have the potential to cause a tsunami. The intensity of the earthquake strength as measured by the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale showed II – III MMI in the Saumlaki area, Tanimbar Islands Regency, Maluku. According to the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMI) ( BMKG), MMI scale III describes the real vibration felt in the house and the vibration felt as if a truck was passing. The higher the MMI, the stronger the vibration felt by residents.

Abdul explained that Southwest Maluku Regency is an area that is prone to earthquakes. According to the inaRISK study, as many as 17 sub-districts are at a moderate to high earthquake hazard potential. which can occur at any time, the public is advised to remain alert and ready. During an earthquake, residents can take shelter under strong furniture by dropping, covering and holding on or safely evacuating out of the building. rescue during an earthquake. If the earthquake triggers a tsunami, residents can immediately evacuate to higher ground.