M 5.3 Waingapu Earthquake NTT Due To Deformation Of The Indo-Australian Plate

Map of the M5.3 earthquake epicenter in the southwest region of Waingapu, NTT, Friday (27/10/2023). (Screenshot-ANTARA/HO-BMKG)

JAKARTA - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said that the 5.3 Waingapu magnitude (M) earthquake, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) was triggered by rock deformation in the Indo-Australian Plate.

"By paying attention to the location of the epicenter and the depth of the hypocenter, the earthquake that occurred was a medium earthquake due to rock deformation in the subducted Indo-Australian Plate," said Head of the BMKG Earthquake and Tsunami Center Daryono in Jakarta Friday, October 27, quoted by Antara.

He revealed that the epicenter of the earthquake was located at coordinates 9.78 South Latitude (LS) and 120.17 East Longitude (BT), or precisely located on land at a distance of 16 km southwest of Waingapu, NTT.

The results of the analysis of the source mechanism, he continued, showed that the earthquake had a downward movement mechanism or a normal fault.

He said the earthquake that occurred at 14:49 WIB, Friday, October 27, was felt in the Waingapu area with an intensity scale of III-IV MMI (modified mercy intensity).

This means that during the day, he continued, many people felt it in the house, outside by several people, pottery was broken, windows/doors tightened and walls ranged.

The earthquake was also felt in the Waitabula, Waikabubak, and Bima areas, with an intensity scale of II MMI (vibrational vibrations felt by several people, light objects that were hung swayed).

Daryono said, until 15:12 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 appealed to the public to remain calm and not be influenced by issues that cannot be justified.