Facts About the Earthquake on February 1, 2025, Centered in Gunungkidul and Felt by Residents of Yogyakarta

Kapanlagi.com - On Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 07:40 WIB, the Gunungkidul region was startled by a 5.2 magnitude earthquake that disrupted the morning calm. The tremors were not only felt in Gunungkidul but also extended to surrounding areas such as Bantul, Sleman, Kulon Progo, Kebumen, Purworejo, and even reached Trenggalek in East Java!

According to official information from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the epicenter of the earthquake was located about 96 km southwest of Gunungkidul at a depth of 10 km. Although classified as a shallow earthquake with the potential to cause damage, BMKG confirmed that this earthquake posed no tsunami risk. However, the public is still advised to remain calm and vigilant for possible aftershocks that could occur at any time.

Daryono from BMKG confirmed via his X account, “On Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 07:40 WIB, Central Java, DIY, and parts of East Java were shaken by an M 5.1 earthquake. The epicenter was at sea, 100 KM southwest of Gunungkidul at a depth of 73 KM.”

1. Causes of the Gunungkidul Earthquake: Due to Rock Deformation

An earthquake with an initial magnitude of 5.2 shook our region, centered at coordinates 8.81 S and 110.31 E, due to rock deformation in the Indo-Australian plate that is currently moving. Although the movement pattern is classified as moderate and there have been no reports of aftershocks until 08:02 WIB, the BMKG continues to urge the public to remain vigilant.

"Aftershocks can occur at any time, whether within a few hours or several days after the main earthquake," emphasized Daryono, explaining that this phenomenon is caused by the plate subducting beneath Java Island.

2. Residents of Yogyakarta City Also Felt It, Including Parts of East Java

The tremors from the earthquake that shook the Gunungkidul area were not only felt there but also extended to several surrounding areas. The city of Yogyakarta, Bantul, Kulon Progo, Sleman, Kebumen, and Purworejo experienced significant vibrations with an intensity scale of III MMI, as if a large truck was passing in front of their houses.

Meanwhile, in other areas such as Klaten, Pacitan, Karangkates, and Trenggalek, the intensity of the earthquake was lower, around II MMI, which was only felt by some people without causing significant disturbances. "It felt like zig-zag, like swaying (during the earthquake)," said Dewi, a resident of Timoho, while sharing her experience with Liputan6.

3. BMKG Urges Citizens to Remain Vigilant Against Aftershocks

Although no aftershocks have been detected so far, BMKG urges the public to remain calm but vigilant. They also emphasize the importance of obtaining information about earthquakes from trusted sources to avoid misinformation.

For residents in the affected areas, it is advised to always monitor official information from BMKG through official channels such as their X account (@infoBMKG) or their website.

4. Mitigation Steps: Preparation Before, During, and After an Earthquake

In facing the threat of earthquakes, preparedness is key to minimizing risks and impacts. Before the tremors occur, the public is reminded to assess the strength of their homes and to recognize safe evacuation routes. When the earthquake strikes, acting quickly by taking cover under a sturdy table or moving away from glass and heavy objects can save lives.

For those outside, move away from tall buildings, power poles, and large trees to avoid falling debris. After the shaking subsides, it is important to check the condition of your home and surrounding area, ensuring there are no dangerous gas leaks or electrical shorts. If you find a building with serious cracks, do not enter until authorities conduct a thorough inspection.

5. Is the earthquake in Gunungkidul on February 1, 2025, potentially a tsunami?

On February 1, 2025, Gunungkidul was shaken by an earthquake that raised concerns about a possible tsunami. However, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) firmly stated that the public need not panic. Although the epicenter of the earthquake was located at sea, the vertical movement at the seabed was not significant enough to trigger tsunami waves. So, it is safe to resume activities without worry!

6. Why could the earthquake in Gunungkidul be felt as far as Yogyakarta and Trenggalek?

This shaking earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km, making it a shallow earthquake capable of spreading vibrations to various regions. Additionally, the soil characteristics in areas like Yogyakarta and Trenggalek provide opportunities for seismic waves to travel further, creating resonance that is felt in unexpected places.

7. What caused the Gunungkidul earthquake on February 1, 2025?

The BMKG revealed that the recent earthquake was caused by rock deformation activity within the Indo-Australian plate, known as an intra-slab earthquake. This phenomenon occurs when the plate subducts beneath the Eurasian plate, being pressured by extraordinary natural forces, until it finally releases energy in the form of seismic vibrations that shake the ground.

8. How strong was the earthquake tremor in Yogyakarta?

In the city of Yogyakarta, the shaking from the earthquake was felt with a scale of III MMI, where the vibrations were quite clearly felt indoors, causing small objects to shake as if dancing. However, residents need not worry, as this earthquake did not cause significant structural damage.

9. How to find official information about the earthquake?

To obtain official and accurate information about the earthquake, you can rely on the BMKG through various channels, such as the official website, X account (@infoBMKG), BMKG app, or press releases from trusted media. Be cautious of hoax news or unverified information, as your safety is very important!

10. What to do during an earthquake like this?

When the earthquake strikes, the first step to take is to seek shelter under a sturdy table or in a safe place away from heavy objects that could fall. If you are outdoors, stay away from tall buildings, power lines, and large trees that could pose a danger. For those on the beach, do not hesitate to move away from the shoreline, even if there is no official warning, to avoid the risk of a tsunami that could arrive suddenly. Safety is the top priority!

(kpl/srr)