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February 1, 2025 | 12:34 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - South Aceh was struck by a tectonic earthquake with a magnitude of 5.9, previously reported at 6.2, on Friday evening, January 31, 2025. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) reported the epicenter was located in the sea, 28 kilometers southwest of Tapaktuan City, South Aceh, at a depth of 59 kilometers.
Daryono, Director of Earthquake and Tsunami at the BMKG, explained that the earthquake was shallow. It occurred because of the movement of rocks where the Indo-Australian Plate slides beneath Sumatra. "The analysis of the source mechanism indicates that this earthquake has a combination of horizontal and downward movement (Oblique Normal) mechanism," he said.
The BMKG recorded three aftershocks by 6:35 p.m. Western Indonesia Time (WIB). The strongest aftershock measured 3.8 magnitude at 6:17 p.m. WIB. The earthquake caused strong shaking in South Aceh Regency and Simeulue, reaching level IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale. This means the shaking was felt by many people indoors.
The tremors were also felt in other areas. In Banda Aceh, Kutacane, Sigli, Aceh Besar, Aceh Jaya, Gayo Lues, Aceh Timur, Aceh Tengah, and even in Dolok Sanggul and Humbang Hasundutan in North Sumatra, the shaking reached level III MMI. Residents in Medan and Gunung Sitoli felt weaker shaking, at level II MMI. "Modeling results indicate that this earthquake does not have the potential for a tsunami," Daryono added.
Signs of Tsunami Potential According to BMKG
Even though the recent earthquake in South Aceh did not trigger a tsunami, the BMKG reminds the public of the warning signs below in order to take appropriate preventive measures.
1. Strong Coastal Earthquakes
Large earthquakes, usually magnitude 7.0 or higher, can cause tsunamis. If the shaking is strong and lasts long, move to higher ground immediately.
2. Sudden Sea Level Drop
If the sea suddenly pulls back, showing the seabed, a large tsunami wave may be coming. This happens as the water is drawn out before the wave surges in.
3. Strange Noises
A deep roaring or booming sound from the sea, like explosions, can be a sign. This is the sound of the approaching water.
4. Animal Behavior Changes
Animals are often more sensitive to changes. If birds act strangely or land animals move to higher ground, it could mean a tsunami is coming.
5. Unusual Waves
Waves that are faster and higher than normal can also be a sign. Tsunamis can hit minutes to hours after a large earthquake.
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) advises people to move away from the coast and go to higher ground if they see any of these signs. It is recommended to always check official information from the BMKG and never try to watch a tsunami from the sea as it is extremely dangerous.
M. Faiz Zaki contributed to the writing of this article
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