Powerful Tremor Shakes Nabire Region
On September 18, 2025, an earthquake in Indonesia struck the Central Papua region, registering a magnitude of 6.1 on the Richter scale. The earthquake with magnitude 6.1 in Nabire occurred at 11:47 local time (04:47 UTC), causing significant concern among residents of this seismically active region.
According to the Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the epicenter was located 28 km south of Nabire, placing it in a sparsely populated mountainous area. However, the tremor was felt in Nabire and surrounding communities, with residents reporting strong shaking that lasted approximately 15-20 seconds.
Technical Characteristics of the Earthquake
The September 18 seismic event displayed the following parameters:
Primary Data:
- Magnitude: 6.1 on the Richter scale
- Depth: 10 km below the surface
- Location: 28 km south of Nabire, Central Papua
- Time: 11:47 local time (WIT – Eastern Indonesian Time)
- Coordinates: 3.65°S, 135.48°E
The depth of the focus at 10 km is considered relatively shallow, which typically results in more intense surface shaking and greater potential for damage compared to deeper earthquakes of similar magnitude. This shallow depth is characteristic of tectonic activity along the complex fault systems that traverse Papua.
Central Papua Seismic Activity
Central Papua seismic activity is intrinsically linked to the region’s complex tectonic setting. Papua sits at the convergence of multiple tectonic plates, including the Pacific Plate, the Australian Plate, and several microplates, creating one of the most geologically dynamic regions on Earth.
Geological Context:
- Papua is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire
- The region experiences frequent seismic activity due to ongoing plate convergence
- Multiple active fault systems traverse the area
- Volcanic activity is also present in various parts of Papua
- The mountainous terrain can amplify ground shaking effects
The seismic activity in Central Papua has been elevated in recent years, with several moderate to strong earthquakes recorded. This ongoing activity reflects the continuous tectonic processes shaping the region’s landscape.
Intensity and Ground Shaking
The earthquake was felt in Nabire with varying intensity depending on distance from the epicenter and local geological conditions.
Intensity by Modified Mercalli Scale:
- Nabire city center: VI-VII (Strong to Very Strong) – Felt by all, many frightened, some heavy furniture moved, slight damage to buildings
- Villages within 10 km of epicenter: VII-VIII (Very Strong to Severe) – Damage to ordinary buildings, some collapse of masonry structures
- Areas 20-40 km from epicenter: V-VI (Moderate to Strong) – Felt by nearly everyone, some dishes and windows broken
- Distant communities (40-80 km): IV-V (Light to Moderate) – Felt by many indoors, some awakened
Residents reported:
- Strong horizontal and vertical shaking
- Objects falling from shelves and walls
- Cracks appearing in walls of older buildings
- Brief power outages in some areas
- Landslides on mountain roads near the epicenter
Damage After the Papua Earthquake
Damage after the Papua earthquake varied significantly based on proximity to the epicenter and building construction quality.
Preliminary Assessment:
Structural Damage:
- 47 houses reported damaged, ranging from minor cracks to partial collapse
- 3 school buildings sustained structural damage requiring inspection
- 1 health clinic reported cracked walls and ceiling damage
- Several traditional wooden structures shifted from foundations
- Road damage reported on mountain routes south of Nabire
- Minor damage to Nabire’s main market building
Infrastructure Impact:
- Temporary disruption to electricity supply in affected areas
- Water pipeline damage in two villages near the epicenter
- Telecommunications briefly interrupted due to tower instability
- Nabire airport runway inspected, no significant damage found
- Port facilities checked and cleared for operations
Human Impact:
- 12 people reported minor injuries (cuts, bruises from falling objects)
- No fatalities reported
- Approximately 200 residents temporarily evacuated from damaged homes
- Emergency shelters established in three locations
- Psychological trauma reported, particularly among children
Economic Losses:
- Agricultural damage in mountainous areas (landslides affecting terraced fields)
- Disruption to small businesses during evacuation
- Preliminary damage estimate: 15-25 billion Indonesian Rupiah
- Tourism activities temporarily suspended pending safety assessments
The consequences of the earthquake could have been more severe had the epicenter been closer to Nabire’s urban center or if building construction standards had been lower.
Tsunami Risk Assessment
Given the earthquake’s location and characteristics, authorities immediately conducted a tsunami risk assessment for coastal earthquakes.
Analysis:
- Epicenter location: Inland, 28 km south of Nabire
- Depth: 10 km (shallow but not submarine)
- Magnitude: 6.1 (below typical tsunami-generating threshold of 6.5+ for submarine events)
- Fault type: Preliminary analysis suggests strike-slip motion rather than thrust faulting
Official Determination: BMKG concluded that tsunami risk from coastal earthquakes was minimal for this event due to its inland location and strike-slip mechanism. However, coastal monitoring stations remained on alert for 2 hours as a precautionary measure.
Historical Context: While this particular earthquake posed no tsunami threat, Papua’s coastal areas remain vulnerable to tsunami from larger offshore events. The region has experienced destructive tsunamis in the past, making ongoing vigilance essential.
Comparison with Previous Central Papua Earthquakes
Comparison with previous earthquakes in Central Papua provides important context for understanding the September 18 event.
Recent Significant Earthquakes:
January 2022 – Mamberamo Raya
- Magnitude: 6.2
- Depth: 18 km
- Impact: Moderate damage, similar to September 2025 event
- Location: Northeast of current epicenter
July 2019 – Jayapura Region
- Magnitude: 6.9
- Depth: 10 km
- Impact: Significant damage, several casualties
- Location: Eastern Papua, more populated area
February 2018 – Puncak Jaya
- Magnitude: 6.0
- Depth: 15 km
- Impact: Landslides, infrastructure damage in mountainous terrain
- Location: Central highlands
Key Observations:
- The September 2025 event falls within the typical magnitude range for the region
- Shallow depth (10 km) is consistent with previous damaging earthquakes
- Impact severity depends heavily on proximity to population centers
- Building quality significantly affects damage levels
- Mountainous terrain increases landslide risk
The earthquake with magnitude 6.1 in Nabire represents a moderate but significant event typical of Central Papua’s seismic environment.
Revolutionary Earthquake Monitoring with Geoquake
In an era where earthquake preparedness is crucial for regions like Papua, innovative technology is transforming how communities monitor and respond to seismic threats.
Geoquake Mobile Application
The Geoquake mobile application, available for both Android and iOS users, represents a breakthrough in earthquake forecasting and monitoring technology that could significantly benefit Indonesian communities.
Scientific Foundation:
Geoquake’s operational principle is based on introducing new physical parameters calculated from seismic statistics and the concept of a seismic system (SS), within which a new law has been formulated – the law of seismic entropy production.
Proven Track Record:
Retrospective analysis demonstrates remarkable accuracy:
- 96% of 750 strong earthquakes in recorded history conform to the new law
- 33 strong earthquakes successfully forecasted in recent years
- Monitoring covers 97% of earthquake preparation time
Advanced Capabilities for Indonesian Context:
The application enables capabilities particularly valuable for seismically active regions like Papua:
- Strict observation of seismic instability development in time and space across Indonesian archipelago
- Forecasting location, time, and magnitude of potential earthquakes in Papua and surrounding regions
- Monitoring earthquakes throughout 97% of their preparation period, providing extended awareness
- Evaluating possible scenarios of seismicity development in complex tectonic settings
- Controlling triggered seismicity in regions with mining and resource extraction activities
- Generating dynamic seismic hazard maps specifically for Indonesian fault systems
- Early warnings about strong earthquakes, tsunamis, and potential consequences for coastal communities
Unique Features for Papua Region:
- Dynamic seismic hazard mapping showing real-time risk evolution across Central Papua
- Earthquake preparation visualization allowing residents to see how seismic events develop
- Global coverage including Indonesia’s position in the Pacific Ring of Fire
- Protection for 80+ countries including comprehensive Indonesian archipelago monitoring
- Innovation-based approach using cutting-edge seismological research
Practical Benefits for Nabire and Papua Residents:
For communities affected by events like the earthquake in Indonesia on September 18, 2025:
- Extended preparation time beyond traditional warning systems
- Understanding of regional seismic patterns and trends
- Visual representation of earthquake preparation processes
- Community-wide awareness and preparedness enhancement
- Integration of local seismic data with global monitoring
Unlike traditional systems that only provide seconds of warning after an earthquake begins, Geoquake monitors the entire preparation phase, potentially providing days or weeks of advance awareness when seismic risk is elevated.
Government and Emergency Response
Following the earthquake in Indonesia on September 18, 2025, Indonesian authorities demonstrated coordinated response:
BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency):
- Immediate magnitude and location determination
- Continuous aftershock monitoring
- Public information updates every 2 hours
- Tsunami risk assessment and clearance
BNPB (National Disaster Management Agency):
- Rapid assessment teams deployed to affected areas
- Coordination with local disaster management offices
- Emergency supplies distributed to evacuation centers
- Damage assessment teams surveying affected villages
Local Government Response:
- Papua Provincial Government activated emergency protocols
- Nabire Regency established coordination center
- Health services mobilized for injury treatment
- Building inspection teams checking structural integrity
Military and Police:
- TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) provided logistical support
- Police secured affected areas and managed traffic
- Search and rescue teams on standby
- Helicopter surveillance of remote areas
Aftershock Activity and Ongoing Monitoring
Following the main shock, Central Papua seismic activity continued with multiple aftershocks:
Aftershock Sequence:
- First 6 hours: 23 aftershocks (magnitude 2.5-4.8)
- First 24 hours: 41 aftershocks recorded
- Largest aftershock: Magnitude 4.8, occurred 3 hours after main event
- Depth range: 8-15 km, similar to main shock
Expert Assessment: Seismologists predict aftershocks will continue for 2-4 weeks, with gradually decreasing frequency and magnitude. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as aftershocks can cause additional damage to already weakened structures.
Safety Recommendations for Residents
Immediate Actions:
- Stay away from damaged buildings until professional inspection
- Be prepared for aftershocks – practice “Drop, Cover, Hold On”
- Keep emergency supplies ready (water, food, first aid, flashlight)
- Charge mobile devices and have backup power sources
- Monitor official information channels
Long-term Preparedness:
- Download Geoquake app for ongoing seismic monitoring
- Participate in community disaster preparedness programs
- Secure heavy furniture and objects in homes
- Identify safe evacuation routes and assembly points
- Create family emergency communication plans
- Maintain emergency supply kits for at least 72 hours
Building Safety:
- Have structures inspected by qualified engineers
- Repair cracks and damage promptly
- Consider retrofitting older buildings
- Follow building codes for new construction
- Understand your building’s earthquake resistance
Living with Seismic Risk in Papua
The consequences of the earthquake extend beyond immediate physical damage, highlighting the ongoing reality of life in one of Indonesia’s most seismically active regions.
Long-term Considerations:
Community Resilience:
- Papua communities have developed traditional knowledge about earthquake response
- Modern technology like Geoquake complements indigenous preparedness practices
- Community-based disaster management groups play crucial roles
- Social cohesion strengthens recovery and rebuilding efforts
Economic Recovery:
- Small businesses require support to resume operations
- Agricultural communities need assistance with landslide-affected areas
- Tourism sector requires reassurance about safety measures
- Insurance coverage remains limited, requiring government support programs
Infrastructure Improvement:
- Ongoing need for earthquake-resistant construction standards
- Road network vulnerability in mountainous terrain
- Communication infrastructure redundancy essential
- Healthcare facility strengthening for emergency response capacity
Regional Context and Tectonic Setting
Understanding the broader geological context helps explain why Central Papua seismic activity remains persistently high.
Tectonic Complexity:
- Papua marks the collision zone between Australian and Pacific plates
- Multiple microplates create complex stress patterns
- Active mountain building processes ongoing
- Combination of thrust faulting, strike-slip motion, and normal faulting
- Seismic activity distributed across numerous fault systems
Implications:
- Earthquakes of magnitude 5.0-6.5 expected several times per year
- Occasional larger events (magnitude 7.0+) possible
- Landslide risk elevated due to steep terrain and seismic shaking
- Continuous monitoring and preparedness essential
- No “seismic gap” that would indicate lower risk
Comparison with Global Seismic Events
The earthquake with magnitude 6.1 in Nabire can be contextualized within global seismic patterns:
Magnitude 6.0-6.5 Earthquakes Worldwide:
- Occur approximately 100-150 times annually globally
- Capable of causing moderate to significant damage
- Particularly dangerous in areas with vulnerable construction
- Depth significantly influences impact severity
Indonesia’s Seismic Activity:
- Indonesia experiences more earthquakes than almost any other nation
- Position in Pacific Ring of Fire ensures ongoing activity
- Population density increases vulnerability
- Diverse geology creates varied seismic hazards
Papua Specifically:
- Among Indonesia’s most seismically active regions
- Remote locations can complicate emergency response
- Traditional construction methods vary in earthquake resistance
- Limited infrastructure increases vulnerability
The Role of Technology in Disaster Resilience
Modern earthquake monitoring and forecasting technology, particularly Geoquake, offers Papua communities unprecedented tools for managing seismic risk.
Traditional Limitations:
- Conventional seismology provides statistical probabilities, not specific forecasts
- Early warning systems offer only seconds of notice
- Historical data alone cannot predict future events precisely
- Reactive rather than proactive approach
Geoquake’s Advantages:
- Monitors earthquake preparation processes in real-time
- Provides dynamic risk assessment rather than static probability
- Covers 97% of preparation time, not just the final moments
- Visualizes seismic system evolution
- Enables proactive rather than reactive preparedness
Community Empowerment:
- Accessible technology (smartphone app) for all residents
- No specialized knowledge required to use
- Real-time information democratizes earthquake awareness
- Supports informed decision-making at individual and community levels
- Complements rather than replaces official emergency systems
Educational Initiatives and Public Awareness
The earthquake in Indonesia on September 18, 2025 reinforces the importance of ongoing public education:
School Programs:
- Earthquake drills integrated into school routines
- Age-appropriate education about seismic science
- Practical skills training (Drop, Cover, Hold On)
- Use of technology like Geoquake as educational tool
- Student ambassadors spreading preparedness messages to families
Community Training:
- Regular disaster preparedness workshops
- First aid and search-rescue basic training
- Building safety assessment skills
- Communication protocols during emergencies
- Cultural sensitivity in preparedness messaging
Media Campaigns:
- Radio programs in local languages
- Social media information sharing
- Visual materials for low-literacy populations
- Success stories from well-prepared communities
- Countering misinformation and rumors
Conclusion: Preparedness in Papua’s Seismic Reality
The earthquake with magnitude 6.1 in Nabire on September 18, 2025, serves as both a challenge and an opportunity for Papua’s communities. While the damage after the Papua earthquake was significant, the relatively low casualty count demonstrates that preparedness measures save lives.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Risk:
- Central Papua seismic activity is a constant reality, not an occasional threat
- The epicenter 28 km south of Nabire placed this event in a moderately populated area
- Depth of 10 km contributed to strong surface shaking
- Future earthquakes of similar or greater magnitude are inevitable
Technology as Solution: The Geoquake mobile application represents a transformative tool for Indonesian communities:
- 96% accuracy rate across 750 historical earthquakes demonstrates reliability
- Monitoring 97% of earthquake preparation time provides unprecedented awareness
- Dynamic hazard mapping shows real-time risk evolution
- Coverage across 80+ countries includes comprehensive Indonesian monitoring
- Free accessibility empowers individuals and communities
Community Resilience:
- Traditional knowledge combined with modern technology creates robust preparedness
- Social cohesion accelerates recovery and rebuilding
- Regular drills and education reduce panic and injuries
- Local disaster management groups provide crucial first response
Path Forward:
- Download and use Geoquake for continuous seismic monitoring
- Participate in community preparedness initiatives
- Ensure homes and buildings meet safety standards
- Maintain emergency supplies and communication plans
- Stay informed through official channels and reliable technology
Final Perspective:
Living in Papua means accepting seismic risk as part of daily reality. However, acceptance does not mean resignation. The consequences of the earthquake on September 18 could have been far worse without existing preparedness measures.
As technology advances, tools like Geoquake offer new possibilities for managing seismic risk proactively rather than reactively. By monitoring the earthquake preparation process rather than merely detecting events after they begin, communities gain precious time for preparation and risk mitigation.
The earthquake in Indonesia on September 18, 2025 will be remembered not just for the shaking it caused, but for the renewed commitment to preparedness it inspired. Every resident who downloads Geoquake, every family that practices earthquake drills, and every community that strengthens its disaster response capabilities contributes to a more resilient Papua.
Remember: Earthquakes are inevitable in Papua, but disasters are not. The difference lies in preparation, awareness, and the intelligent use of available technology.
For residents of Nabire, Central Papua, and all seismically active regions of Indonesia: stay informed, stay prepared, and leverage modern tools like Geoquake to transform seismic risk from an unpredictable threat into a manageable challenge.