Central Sulawesi, Indonesia struck by magnitude‑6.7 earthquake

A magnitude‑6.7 tectonic earthquake struck Central Sulawesi on 16 June 2026, with the epicentre about 42 km southeast of Palu at a depth of 10 km. The quake caused one fatality, dozens of injuries and extensive damage to homes, bridges and public facilities. By 17 June the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported at least 2,012 households (≈6,458 people) affected, 1,456 houses lightly damaged, 112 moderately damaged and 47 severely damaged, together with damage to 35 places of worship, 10 schools and 11 office buildings. Infrastructure losses included the closure of Jembatan Palu III and damage to other bridges; inspections by the Ministry of Public Works found Jembatan Palu 1 and 4 structurally sound.

The provincial government declared a state of emergency for seven days (later extended by the Sigi regency for 14 days) to accelerate relief. The Ministry of Public Works deployed teams, heavy equipment and conducted bridge inspections, while the Brimob police unit sent personnel, water‑treatment trucks and field kitchens to clear debris, provide clean water and meals. More than a dozen aftershocks of magnitude 4.0‑4.2 were recorded, prompting authorities to urge residents to avoid damaged structures until cleared safe.

The earthquake revived memories of the 2018 Palu disaster, underscoring the region’s vulnerability within the Pacific “Ring of Fire” and prompting continued monitoring and preparedness measures.