Magnitude 6.7 quake strikes central Sulawesi, one dead and dozens injured

A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Sulawesi on Tuesday, with its epicenter about 43 km east-southeast of Palu and a depth of roughly 10 km, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The tremor prompted residents to flee to open areas and led to the evacuation of patients from several hospitals.

National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said one person was confirmed dead and 38 others were injured, including 13 with serious injuries in Sigi regency. At least 312 people have been displaced, and damage was reported to 67 houses, six places of worship, four public facilities, two bridges, two government office buildings and three business sites. A provincial road linking Palu with the neighboring regencies of Sigi and Poso was also cut.

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency recorded more than 70 aftershocks throughout the day, prompting further evacuations and precautionary moves away from coastal areas. While no tsunami threat was identified, officials warned that aftershocks could continue.

"The earthquake shaking was extremely strong," said Palu resident Muhtar Ahmad.

"We have evacuated all guests from the hotel, including several guests who remained in their rooms," said Effendi Natali, general manager of a four-star hotel in Palu. "They all panicked, which is a natural reaction during an earthquake, but everyone is safe," Natali added, noting only minor damage to the hotel.

The quake revived memories of the 2018 magnitude 7.5 earthquake that killed more than 4,000 people in the region. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” remains vulnerable to frequent seismic activity.