Powerful 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Indonesia; Chaos in Palu, Buildings Damaged

New Delhi: A powerful 6.7 magnitude earthquake shook Indonesia’s Sulawesi island on Tuesday. Reports indicate widespread damage in Palu, the capital of Central Sulawesi province, and surrounding areas due to the intense tremors.

The earthquake was so strong that people, gripped by fear, rushed out of their homes and offices toward open spaces. Alarmingly, Palu is the same city that endured a devastating earthquake and tsunami nearly eight years ago—traumas that remain fresh in the minds of the local people. This latest tremor has once again revived those harrowing memories for the residents.

Patients Evacuated from Hospitals; Hotels and Buildings Damaged
Given the intensity of the tremors, patients from several hospitals in Palu were immediately moved to safe locations as a precautionary measure. Images released by news agencies and shared on social media show doctors and healthcare workers moving patients—along with their IV drips and stretchers—out into the open air. Effendi Natali, General Manager of a prominent four-star hotel in the city, stated that all rooms were evacuated as soon as the earthquake struck. Although the sudden tremor caused panic and chaos among the guests, everyone remained safe, and the hotel building sustained only minor damage. Reports and images from other parts of the city also show collapsed roofs, cracked walls, and debris scattered across the streets.

No Tsunami Threat, but Authorities Warn of Aftershocks
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 43 kilometers east-southeast of Palu, at a depth of about 10 kilometers. Several aftershocks were felt in the area following the main earthquake, with the strongest measuring a magnitude of 5.2. As a precaution, residents in coastal areas moved to safer locations away from the sea to avoid any potential tsunami. Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency has clarified that there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake but has advised people to remain vigilant, as aftershocks could continue in the coming days.

Relief and rescue operations underway; agencies assessing damage
In a statement, Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency said it is currently gathering accurate data on damage, potential casualties, and displaced persons in the affected areas. Relief teams have been mobilized to clear debris and deliver aid to those affected. Since Indonesia is located on the ‘Pacific Ring of Fire,’ it frequently experiences natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The administration is closely monitoring the situation and has appealed to the public to remain calm.