Powerful Earthquake Strikes Southern Philippines, Tsunami Warning Issued

A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 struck off the southern Philippine coast, causing panic and prompting evacuations. The US Geological Survey reported that the quake occurred at a depth of 32 kilometers. While there have been no reports of major damage or casualties, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially issued a tsunami warning for the southern Philippines, as well as parts of Indonesia, Palau, and Malaysia. However, the warning was later dropped.

In response to the quake, evacuation orders were issued in several areas of Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, affecting thousands of people.

The head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Teresito Bacolcol, advised residents along the coast of southern Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental provinces to immediately evacuate to higher ground or move further inland. The agency also urged boat owners in vulnerable areas to secure their boats and move away from the waterfront.

Villagers in Hinatuan town and surrounding areas of Surigao del Sur province fled their homes to safety, with pictures posted on the Hinatuan government’s Facebook account showing residents escaping by foot or using various modes of transportation.

As of now, there have been no reports of a tsunami hitting the coastline, but authorities continue to monitor the situation. The Philippines, located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country also experiences numerous typhoons and storms each year.