PAPUA — In the midst of the pain that still surrounds Turkey and Syria and Cianjur unresolved medical condition, Indonesia has been forced to confront grief once more. This is because an earthquake calamity struck Indonesia once more, this time in Jayapura, Papua.
A magnitude 5.2 tectonic earthquake struck the Jayapura area of Papua on Thursday (9/2/2023) at 13:28. According to the BMKG investigation, the epicenter was centred at 2.50° LS; 140.70° E, or precisely on land at a depth of 10 kilometres.
Earthquakes that occur are a type of shallow earthquake caused by active fault activity. The analysis of the source mechanism also showed that this earthquake had a shear movement or a horizontal fault (strike-slip). Therefore, this earthquake has the potential to be destructive.
Also Read: Jalani Tugas Kemanusiaan untuk Gempa Turkiye, Relawan Dompet Dhuafa Resmi Diberangkatkan
The community in Jayapura City, Keerom Regency, and Jakapura Regency felt the earthquake shock as well, with intensities of V MMI, III-IV MMI, and III MMI, respectively. The intensity of V MMI means that it is felt by almost all residents or many awakened people. Meanwhile, the intensity of III-IV MMI and III MMI means that the vibration is felt real in the house or feels like the truck is passing by.
Several buildings in Jayapura have reportedly been damaged due to the earthquake’s effect. On the other hand, BMKG indicated that this earthquake did not have the potential for a tsunami.
According to the results of BMKG observations from January 2 to February 9, 2023, there were 1,072 earthquakes in the area of Jayapura City, with 128 of them felt by the community.
Also Read: Ahli Gempa ITB Sebut Gempa Turkiye Adalah Gempa Paling Ditakuti, Ini Penjelasannya
Dr. Daryono, S.Si., M.Si, Head of the Earthquake and Tsunami Center, Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), encouraged the public to be calm and keep away from damaged and potentially collapsed buildings.
“The people are asked to remain calm and not be misled by unaccounted-for issues. To avoid earthquake-caused cracks or damage to buildings.”
“Check and make sure your residential building is suitably earthquake resistant or that there is no damage due to seismic vibrations that endangers the building’s stability before you return to the residence,” Daryono stated in a written statement on Thursday (9/2/2023).
As brothers, let us all drop our heads and pray for the safety of our brothers everywhere, especially those facing a horrific tragedy. May Allah Swt always give protection and comfort to the hearts of His grieving servants…