Shallow Magnitude 2.8 Earthquake Jolts Kendari Due to Local Fault

RRI.CO.ID, Kendari - A shallow tectonic earthquake rattled the city of Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, reminding residents of the region's active geological landscape. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed that the tremor, which occurred at 7 a.m. local time on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, was triggered by activity within the Kendari North fault line.

The Acting Head of the BMKG Regional Office IV in Makassar, Nasrol Adil, conveyed that updated analysis placed the earthquake at a magnitude of 2.8. The epicenter was identified at coordinates 3.97 South Latitude and 122.53 East longitude.

"Specifically, it was located on land, 3 kilometers east of Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, at a depth of 3 kilometers," noted Adil during a briefing on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Due to the proximity of the epicenter and its shallow hypocenter depth, the event was classified as a shallow earthquake directly resulting from the Kendari North fault's movement. Residents across the city reported noticeable shaking, with intensity maps and public feedback categorizing the vibration at Intensity Scale III MMI.

"The vibrations were felt clearly inside houses, creating a sensation similar to a heavy truck passing by," remarked Nasrol Adil, as quoted by Antara.

Despite the sudden jolt, authorities have not received any reports of structural damage or casualties. Furthermore, monitoring efforts conducted shortly after the initial shake indicated a period of relative stability.

"As of 7:30 a.m. local time, BMKG monitoring has not shown any signs of aftershocks," said Nasrol Adil.

In response to the event, the BMKG has urged the public to remain calm and avoid falling prey to unverified rumors or misinformation. Nasrol Adil emphasized the importance of relying on official data to gauge local safety.

"Ensure that official information only comes from BMKG, distributed through verified official communication channels," he cautioned.

He also pointed to the agency's website, mobile applications, and verified social media accounts as the primary sources for updates. ***