Powerful 6.6 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Indonesia Amid Floods and Landslides

Jakarta, 27 Nov 2025: A strong earthquake measuring 6.6 on the Richter scale struck Sumatra, Indonesia, early Thursday morning, rattling the region already grappling with severe floods and landslides. The tremors, originating approximately 10 km below the surface, were widely felt across coastal and inland areas, adding to the nation’s ongoing natural disaster crisis.

Indonesia has recently suffered from sudden floods and landslides that have claimed over 25 lives. While initial reports suggest no immediate casualties or damage from Thursday’s earthquake, authorities continue to assess the situation.

Officials from Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency confirmed that there is no tsunami threat following the earthquake. Situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Indonesia remains highly vulnerable to seismic activity, experiencing frequent earthquakes of varying magnitudes.

The earthquake struck northern Sumatra at a particularly challenging time, as the region was still recovering from recent heavy rains that caused deadly floods and landslides. At least 28 people have died in the northern province due to landslides and flooding, with roads and communication lines severely disrupted, hampering rescue operations.

Adding to the region’s troubles, an unusual storm on Wednesday caused water levels to rise in the Malacca Strait, worsening the flooding situation. Approximately 8,000 residents have been evacuated, and debris from landslides is blocking major roads, forcing authorities to rely on helicopters for delivering aid and logistics. Ten people remain missing as rescue teams continue their operations.