MidLand, Jakarta – The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reported new findings regarding the segment of the Cipeles fault that triggered the earthquake in Sumedang regency, West Java province, abbreviated as Sumedang earthquake.
A young geological researcher from the Geological Investigation Center, Joko Wahyudino, indicated that the Cipeles fault appeared on the surface, cut layers of soil and damaged several houses.
On December 31, 2023, Sumedang Regency experienced a series of earthquakes measuring 4.1, 3.4 and 4.8. The next day, January 1, 2024, a 4.5 magnitude earthquake shook the area again. The impact of a series of earthquakes over two days resulted in damage to around 400 homes and the displacement of around 500 people.
The segment of the Cipeles fault, which was found to be active, is located in the Cipeles River with a fault direction southwest-northeast, relative to north. Aerial photographs and field measurements were taken to identify geological structures caused by the earthquake in the bedrock and at the surface.
The Geological Agency noted that the most severe damage caused by the Sumedang earthquake occurred in Babakan Hurip village, near the Cipeles River. Investigators managed to find evidence of faults, both old and young, that appeared following the earthquake. An experienced young Earth researcher at the Geological Research Center, Sukahar Eka Adi Saputra, interpreted that the fault segment was active or undergoing reactivation.
Announcement
Based on geological maps, rocks at the earthquake’s epicenter are generally the product of old or young volcanoes. The Cipeles fault, which cuts through Quaternary rocks, indicates that it is an active fault. The Geological Agency recommends increasing mitigation efforts and land use planning in seismic risk areas, as well as the need to develop regulations at the regional level regarding earthquake mitigation.
For people living or carrying out activities in earthquake-prone areas, the Geological Agency highlights the importance of recognizing the sources of earthquakes, understanding the dangers, preparing locations and training, planning independent evacuation and following relevant knowledge to the mitigation of geological disasters.
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