Indonesia Tests Earthquake Early Warning System Offering Up To 20 Seconds Of Alert
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) will begin trials of a new Earthquake Early Warning System (EEWS) designed to provide people with several seconds of advance notice before strong seismic shaking occurs. The pilot will take place this month across Jakarta, West Java, and Lampung following one to two years of development. According to official reporting, the system could provide up to 20 seconds for individuals and institutions to take protective action once an earthquake has begun.
The initiative reflects broader efforts by Indonesia to strengthen digital and monitoring infrastructure that supports public safety and national resilience. Investments in sensing networks and data systems are occurring alongside wider national programmes to expand connectivity and technological capacity, including initiatives linked to digital infrastructure expansion in Indonesia and other technology-enabled public services.
Operational trials planned across three regions
BMKG Head Teuku Faisal Fathani said the operational trial phase will begin this month, marking an important milestone after several years of technical preparation and collaboration with partners. The system has required substantial investment, particularly in installing sensors and strengthening Indonesia’s earthquake monitoring network.
“This month, we will begin operational trials of the Earthquake Early Warning System.” — Teuku Faisal Fathani, Head, BMKG
The trials will focus on areas with dense populations and significant infrastructure. Testing the system in these locations is intended to evaluate how quickly warnings can be issued and how effectively institutions and the public can respond.
How the early warning technology works
The system detects primary seismic waves, known as P-waves, which travel faster than the more damaging secondary waves, or S-waves. By identifying these initial signals, monitoring systems can estimate when stronger shaking will arrive in nearby areas.
“Depending on the distance from the earthquake source, the system can provide a warning time ranging from several seconds up to around 20 seconds before strong shaking is felt.” — Teuku Faisal Fathani, Head, BMKG
BMKG emphasised that the technology does not predict earthquakes before they occur. Instead, it issues alerts immediately after seismic activity begins, providing a short but potentially critical window for risk mitigation.
Supporting rapid response and public preparedness
Even a brief warning period can allow individuals and organisations to take protective measures. These may include seeking safer locations, moving towards evacuation areas, or stopping high-risk activities such as operating machinery or transportation systems.
Indonesia’s need for advanced earthquake monitoring is significant. The country lies along multiple tectonic boundaries and contains 13 subduction zones, often referred to as megathrust zones, making it one of the world’s most seismically active regions.
Beyond technological deployment, BMKG hopes the trial will strengthen public awareness and preparedness. National resilience efforts increasingly combine infrastructure, data systems, and public education, complementing wider programmes aimed at building digital capability and connectivity, such as initiatives to develop digital talent and expand 5G networks in Indonesia.
By testing the early warning system in real-world conditions, authorities aim to evaluate how effectively the technology can support rapid response and reduce casualties and damage during future earthquakes.
