Earthquake in Indonesia of magnitude 6.2

The National Center for Seismology said that an earthquake of magnitude 6.2 hit Indonesia. The epicentre was at a depth of 99 km. The quake was powerful and fortunately, no casualties were reported. No tsunami warnings were issued. Though the quake was massive, damages were minimal as compared to other recent earthquakes in the country. This is because the epicentre was deep under the sea bed.

National Centre for Seismology

It operates under the Ministry of Earth Science. It conducts seismological research and provides earthquake surveillance. Various divisions operate under the centre namely earthquake monitoring services, geophysical observation systems, and earthquake hazard and risk assessments.

Why are earthquakes frequent in Indonesia?

Earthquakes of magnitude greater than 6 or 7 are usually referred to as major earthquakes. And such earthquakes are very common in Indonesia. This is because the Indonesian Archipelago is in the tri-junction of the Eurasian, Pacific, and Indo-Australian plates.

Categories of earthquakes

• <2: Micro
• 2-3.9: Minor
• 4-4.9: Light
• 5-5.9: Moderate
• 6-6.9: Strong
• 7-7.9: Major
• 8-9.9: Great
• >10: Epic

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2023

Category: International / World Current Affairs