Indonesia: Emergency response continuing following magnitude-6.2 earthquake in West Sulawesi Province as of Jan. 15 /update 2

Event

Officials have reported significant additional casualties following the magnitude-6.2 earthquake that occurred at around 0228 Jan. 15 in Indonesia's West Sulawesi Province. As of late Jan. 15, authorities say the earthquake has killed at least 42 people and injured 600 more. Many victims are believed to be trapped in collapsed structures, and casualty figures are highly likely to rise. Significant structural damage has been concentrated in and around Mamuju, a town located 36 km (22 miles) north of the earthquake's epicenter. Thousands of people remain in emergency shelters. Emergency response operations are likely to continue in the coming days. Aftershocks are possible over the coming days; any significant aftershocks could cause additional damage.

In addition to structural damage, the earthquake triggered landslides in several areas, blocking road access between Mamuju and Majene. Power outages have also been reported in parts of West Sulawesi Province. Numerous emergency response personnel have deployed in and around Mamuju. Heightened security, as well as business, transport, and utility disruptions, are likely to persist in parts of West Sulawesi Province in the coming days as recovery operations continue.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides. Consider deferring nonessential travel to affected areas of West Sulawesi Province for the duration of emergency response operations.