A POWERFUL 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Seluma in Indonesia’s Bengkulu province early Friday morning, damaging at least 34 homes in the provincial capital, Kota Bengkulu.
The quake occurred at 2:52am local time, with its epicentre located offshore at a depth of 10 kilometres, according to a statement by Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).
Earlier media reports had cited a magnitude of 6.0, but updated assessments confirmed the tremor’s strength at 6.3 on the Richter scale.
Despite the intensity of the shaking, there have been no reported fatalities or injuries, and authorities have ruled out the possibility of a tsunami.
“The quake caused panic among residents, many of whom rushed out of their homes,” said Abdul Muhari. “Locals reported strong shaking lasting two to three seconds. The tremor was also felt in surrounding areas, including Central Bengkulu and North Bengkulu.”
Local disaster management teams are currently conducting rapid assessments and ongoing monitoring of the situation, while emergency services coordinate the distribution of aid and essential supplies.
Abdul Muhari urged the public to remain calm and vigilant in case of aftershocks, avoid spreading unverified information, and adhere strictly to official guidance from the authorities. - May 23, 2025
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