A tectonic earthquake with a magnitude of M5.2 struck the Sulawesi Sea near the Sangihe Islands, North Sulawesi, on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 09:05:51 WIB. According to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the quake originated from a shallow depth of 36 km due to plate subduction activity and poses no tsunami threat to the region.
Did You Know? This seismic event is classified as an aftershock following the major M7.7 earthquake that occurred in Mindanao, Philippines, on June 8, 2026. Since that initial tremor, BMKG has recorded 375 aftershocks in the region, with the largest reaching a magnitude of M6.7.
Geographic Impact and Intensity
The earthquake’s epicenter was located at 5.73° North Latitude and 125.24° East Longitude, approximately 108.83 km north of Marore Island, Sangihe Islands. BMKG reports that the shaking was felt at an intensity of II–III MMI in the Marore and Miangas regions, while Kendahe experienced an intensity of II MMI. As of the latest update, authorities have received no reports of structural damage resulting from the event.
Expert Insight
Expert Insight: The occurrence of an M5.2 event five days after a massive M7.7 earthquake highlights the persistent volatility of the regional subduction zone. While the lack of damage and the absence of a tsunami threat are positive indicators, the high frequency of aftershocks—totaling 375 since June 8—suggests that the tectonic plates remain in a state of ongoing adjustment. Residents in the affected areas should maintain vigilance and rely exclusively on official data to assess risks during this period of geological instability.
Safety and Official Information
BMKG officials, led by the Director of Earthquakes and Tsunami, Dr. Wijayanto, S.T., M.Sc., have urged the public to remain calm and disregard unverified rumors regarding the seismic activity. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates exclusively through official channels. Verified information is available via the agency’s website at http://www.bmkg.go.id or inatews.bmkg.go.id, the official Telegram channel (https://t.me/InaTEWS_BMKG), and the @infoBMKG social media accounts on Instagram and Twitter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a risk of a tsunami following this earthquake?
No. Modeling results from the BMKG confirm that this M5.2 earthquake does not have the potential to trigger a tsunami.
What was the cause of this earthquake?
The quake was a shallow tectonic event caused by plate subduction activity, specifically involving a mechanism of oblique thrust movement.
Is this an isolated event?
No. The BMKG identifies this earthquake as part of a series of aftershocks following the M7.7 earthquake that struck Mindanao, Philippines, on June 8, 2026.
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