A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the east coast of the Philippines’ Mindanao island. The epicenter was near Santiago City in Davao Oriental province. The tremor was felt as far as Davao City and Cebu. A tsunami warning has been issued, urging people to stay out of the sea.
फिलीपींस में 7.8 तीव्रता का जोरदार भूकंप, सुनामी की भी चेतावनी जारी
The Philippines has been shaken by a powerful earthquake. A strong 7.6-magnitude quake struck the eastern coast of the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Friday morning, shaking the entire region. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck at 9:43 am local time, with its epicenter located about 20 kilometers east of Santiago City in Davao Oriental province. Minutes after the quake, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued a tsunami warning.
Authorities urged residents living in coastal areas to move to safer locations away from the sea. The warning stated that “wave heights may increase in coastal areas, and minor tremors may be felt over the next few hours.” The earthquake was most severe in Davao City, the Philippines’ third-largest metropolitan area. Panic gripped the city, forcing many residents to flee their buildings. Videos shared on social media showed people fleeing offices and markets onto the streets.
Tsunami warning issued
The Philippine Seismological Agency says a devastating tsunami with “life-threatening wave heights” is expected. Based on the local tsunami scenario database, officials said, “Wave heights are expected to exceed a meter above normal tide, and could be even higher in closed bays and straits.” People in coastal areas of seven provinces are being urged to immediately evacuate to higher ground or move further inland.
According to reports, tremors were felt as far away as Cebu, the same city where a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck in late September, killing dozens. Local authorities said no major damage or casualties have been confirmed. Power supply was temporarily disrupted in Davao Oriental and surrounding provinces. Due to the intensity of the earthquake, walls shook in many areas, while cracks were also seen in some places.
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