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6.2-magnitude earthquake on Indonesia's island of Sulawesi kills at least 42 with hundreds injured

A moment magnitude (Mw) 6.2 earthquake struck Majene Regency in West Sulawesi, Indonesia, on 15 January 2021, at 02:28 WITA (18:28 UTC).

A moment magnitude (Mw) 6.2 earthquake struck Majene Regency in West Sulawesi, Indonesia, on 15 January 2021, at 02:28 WITA (18:28 UTC). The reverse faulting shock initiated at 18.0 km (11.2 mi) depth with an epicenter inland, located 32 km (20 mi) south of Mamuju. It was preceded by a Mw 5.7 foreshock several hours prior. Shaking from the mainshock was assigned a maximum Modified Mercalli intensity of VI (Strong) in Majene and Mamuju. Four of the five regencies in West Sulawesi were affected. More than 6,000 structures were damaged or destroyed; damage was estimated at Rp829.1 billion rupiah.

At least 105 people were confirmed dead; nearly 6,500 were injured and thousands were displaced.

Historical Significance

A moment magnitude (Mw) 6.

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Events After

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happened on January 15, 2021?
A moment magnitude (Mw) 6.2 earthquake struck Majene Regency in West Sulawesi, Indonesia, on 15 January 2021, at 02:28 WITA (18:28 UTC). The reverse faulting shock initiated at 18.0 km (11.2 mi) depth with an epicenter inland, located 32 km (20 mi) south of Mamuju. It was preceded by a Mw 5.7 foreshock several hours prior.
Why is 6.2-magnitude earthquake on Indonesia's island of Sulawesi kills at least 42 ... significant?
A moment magnitude (Mw) 6.

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January 15 in HistoryYear 2021