Kupang, Indonesia Shaken by Magnitude 5.3 Earthquake

A shallow magnitude‑5.3 earthquake struck inland 18 km northeast of Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, on 26 July 2026 at 18:57 local time. The BMKG recorded a depth of 44 km and identified the event as a thrust‑fault quake associated with subduction activity.

Shaking reached intensity V on the MMI scale in Sulamu, West Fatuleu, East Kupang, and Oelamasi, with weaker IV‑level tremors felt in Kupang city and surrounding districts. BMKG confirmed no tsunami potential and reported no aftershocks up to the following morning. Residents panicked, especially in a shopping centre where witnesses described two successive jolts, prompting people to flee the building.

BMKG urged the public to stay calm, avoid damaged structures, and follow official updates through its communication channels.