Canadian Man's Mega-Earthquake Prediction Refuted by BMKG, Predictability Emphasized

A video by Canadian content creator Frankie MacDonald, who claims to be a 'meteorological observer,' predicting a devastating earthquake in Indonesia with a magnitude of 7 to 9, potentially reaching M 9, has caused concern. Despite his claims, MacDonald reportedly lacks a formal scientific background in meteorology or disaster science. In response, the Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reiterated that precise earthquake prediction is currently impossible. According to BMKG Director of Earthquakes and Tsunamis, Wijayanto, Indonesia is geographically situated in a seismically active zone, facing threats from megathrusts and active faults. However, he emphasized, "There is no technology in the world yet that can accurately predict when and where a specific earthquake will occur." Wijayanto suggested that such predictions are merely statistical coincidences. On average, Indonesia experiences two earthquakes per year with magnitudes less than seven. He noted that as of August 2026, Indonesia had already recorded two earthquakes exceeding magnitude 7, in the Flores and North Maluku regions. The BMKG strongly advises the Indonesian public not to be swayed by unverified information circulating on social media and other platforms. They urge citizens to remain calm and vigilant without succumbing to excessive panic. Instead of believing predictions, the agency encourages the public to focus on practical disaster mitigation measures. These include knowledge of survival techniques during earthquakes, evacuation procedures, strengthening building resilience, and improving evacuation signage.