BMKG Calls Earthquake 5.9 Sea Banda Due To Deformation Of Deep Sea Rocks

The map for the M5.9 earthquake epicenter is located in the Banda Sea area, Maluku, Thursday (26/10/2023). (screenshot-ANTARA/HO-BMKG)

MALUKU - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said that the 5.9 magnitude earthquake (M) in the Banda Sea area was due to deformation of deep rocks under the Banda Sea.

BMKG updated information on the earthquake in Maluku Province which initially had a magnitude of 6.1 to M 5.9.

"The earthquake that occurred was a type of medium earthquake due to rock deformation in plate slabs that were subducted under the Banda Sea," said Head of the BMKG Earthquake and Tsunami Center, Daryono in Jakarta, Thursday, October 26, as reported by Antara.

He added that the results of the analysis of the source mechanism showed that the earthquake had a thrust fault mechanism. The modeling results also show that this earthquake does not have the potential for a tsunami.

He revealed that the epicenter of the earthquake was located at coordinates 7.41 south latitude and 129.40 east longitude, or precisely located in the sea at a distance of 196 km northeast of Southwest Maluku Regency at a depth of 159 km.

He conveyed that the earthquake that occurred at 12.44.17 WIB had an impact and was felt in the Saumlaki area with an intensity scale of III-IV MMI (modified mercy intensity), meaning that during the day it was felt by many people in the house.

"Until now, there have been no reports of damage caused by the earthquake," he said.

He said, until 12:54 WIB, the results of BMKG monitoring had not shown any aftershock activity.

He appealed to the public to avoid buildings that were cracked or damaged by the earthquake.

"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," he said.

In addition, he also appealed to the public to remain calm and not be influenced by issues that cannot be justified.