PALU — A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Sulawesi island on Tuesday, prompting residents of Palu to move into open areas. The seismic event's origin point was 43 kilometers east-southeast of the city, and the U.S. Geological Survey measured its depth at approximately 10 kilometers.

Multiple aftershocks followed the primary event, including one that registered at 5.2 magnitude. Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency confirmed there was no immediate tsunami threat but warned that aftershocks could continue. Residents relocated away from coastal zones as a precaution against a potential tsunami.

Buildings in the affected area sustained structural damage, which included partially collapsed roofs, broken walls, and scattered street debris. Several hospitals in the area evacuated patients to outdoor locations as a safety measure. The National Disaster Management Agency stated that information regarding property damage, casualties, and displaced persons was still being collected.

Effendi Natali, a hotel manager, said, "We have evacuated all guests from the hotel, including several guests who remained in their rooms." He added, "They all panicked, which is a natural reaction during an earthquake, but everyone is safe." Natali stated that the hotel sustained only minor structural damage. Muhtar Ahmad, a resident, said, "The earthquake shaking was extremely strong." Ahmad added, "We are still traumatized by the previous earthquake, so we chose to remain outside because we are afraid that aftershocks may continue."

Palu is the capital of Central Sulawesi province, with a population of approximately 400,000. Indonesia contains multiple seismic fault lines that regularly produce earthquakes and volcanic activity. A magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck the city in 2018, leading to more than 4,000 fatalities, a 3-meter tsunami, and soil liquefaction. In January 2021, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake near Mamuju on Sulawesi island resulted in at least 100 deaths.