Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — An undersea earthquake struck several areas along the southern coast of Java on Monday night, August 26, 2024. The strongest tremors were recorded in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), reaching an intensity of III-IV on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, according to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).
BMKG reported that the 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit DIY at 7:57 p.m. local time. The epicenter was located in the Southern Sea, 95 kilometers southwest of Gunung Kidul, DIY, at a depth of 30 kilometers. The quake produced significant shaking, strong enough to be felt indoors, causing doors and windows to rattle. Although there is no tsunami threat, BMKG advised residents to remain cautious of potential aftershocks.
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The tremors were felt as far as Nganjuk and Malang, with intensities of II-III MMI, and also reached Karangkates and Sleman.
Authorities urged the public to stay calm and check for any damage to buildings caused by the quake. “Ensure there are no structural damages at your residence that could compromise safety before re-entering your home,” BMKG advised.
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As of 9:05 PM local time, the Yogyakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD DIY) reported damage to several buildings in the districts of Gunungkidul, Bantul, Sleman, and Kulon Progo.
Edhy Hartana, head of disaster prevention and fire control at BPBD DIY, stated that five homes were damaged in the Nglipar and Semanu sub-districts of Gunungkidul. One home was also reported damaged in both Pandak, Bantul, and Sentolo, Kulon Progo.
Additionally, a local market in Sleman’s Prambanan sub-district also sustained some serious damage. Roof tiles from the building start falling off when the quake occurs, scattered on the first and second floors. Fortunately, there were no fatalities as the market was quiet from trading activity.
“In Yogyakarta City, data collection is still ongoing, and there is no fixed information yet on the impact of the earthquake,” Edhy said in a statement Monday night.
(Raidi/Agung)
