A powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Simeulue Regency, Aceh, on Thursday, November 27, at approximately 12:10 PM Western Indonesian Time (WIB). The seismic event left 12 individuals injured and caused significant damage to various public facilities across the island region.
Following the initial tremor, a series of aftershocks rattled the area. Authorities recorded nine aftershocks, varying in intensity, which added to the instability and concern among residents.
According to the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) Simeulue, the earthquake’s epicenter was located 55 kilometers southwest of Sinabang, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The strong tremors were distinctly felt throughout the island, prompting residents to rush out of their homes in search of safety.
Zulfadli, the Head of BPBD Simeulue, confirmed that the aftershocks have been fluctuating. He also reported that the 12 injured individuals sustained their wounds from falling building materials during the earthquake.
Notably, the victims were identified as athletes and officials participating in pre-PORA activities, who were present in one of Simeulue’s buildings when the earthquake hit.
“They were immediately evacuated to health facilities to receive medical treatment. As of Friday afternoon, November 28, there have been no reports of fatalities,” Zulfadli told kumparan, providing a crucial update on the human impact of the disaster.
The earthquake damage extended to numerous public structures. Among the affected buildings are Al-Muhajirin Sibigo Mosque, Kampung Air Mosque in Central Simeulue, SMPN 3 Teluk Dalam school, the Central Simeulue Fire Post, the UPTD Puskesmas Central Simeulue health center, and even the Simeulue BPBD Headquarters. Additionally, several electricity poles in Lambaya Village were reported to have collapsed, further complicating the situation.
Beyond structural damage, BPBD Simeulue continues its assessment of both property damage and potential secondary impacts. In a separate incident following the quake, a resident’s kerosene storage warehouse caught fire, adding another layer of concern for the affected community.
Joint teams of field officers have been actively surveying the affected locations and coordinating efforts to ensure an optimal emergency response. Their immediate focus is on managing the current crisis and preventing further complications.
Residents are strongly urged to remain vigilant and avoid being misled by hoax information circulating about potential aftershocks. Authorities emphasize reliance on official channels for accurate updates and safety guidelines.
As of now, BPBD reports no mass displacement, with no residents having evacuated their homes. The weather conditions in the affected area are monitored, showing light rain with winds blowing from the southwest, which could influence recovery operations.
Monitoring of information from BMKG (Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency) and the ongoing damage assessment process continue. The local government has affirmed its commitment to maintaining continuous emergency handling to mitigate any further impacts of the Simeulue earthquake.
Summary
A powerful 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Simeulue Regency, Aceh, on Thursday, November 27, at 12:10 PM WIB, followed by nine aftershocks. This seismic event injured 12 individuals, identified as athletes and officials, who sustained wounds from falling building materials. No fatalities have been reported as of Friday afternoon, November 28.
The earthquake caused significant damage to numerous public facilities, including several mosques, a school, and health centers. A separate incident saw a resident’s kerosene storage warehouse catch fire after the quake. Local authorities are actively assessing the damage and coordinating emergency response, urging residents to rely on official information.