Indonesia: Emergency response continuing as of Jan. 20 following magnitude-6.2 earthquake in West Sulawesi Province /update 3

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 early Jan. 20, authorities report the earthquake has killed at least 84 people, 73 in Mamuju and 11 in Majene, and injured 800 more. Many victims are believed to be trapped in collapsed structures, and casualty figures are likely to rise. Significant structural damage has been concentrated in and around Mamuju, 36 km (22 miles) north of the earthquake's epicenter. At least 27,000 people remain in emergency shelters. Emergency response operations are likely to continue in the coming days. Aftershocks are possible; any significant aftershocks could cause additional damage or hinder response efforts.

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.