A significant earthquake measuring 6.7 on the Richter scale struck off the southern islands of the Philippines on Wednesday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage or injuries following the tremor.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles), located about 68 kilometers (42 miles) east of Baculin, a village within the southern town of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur province. The Philippine seismology agency, Phivolcs, registered the quake with a slightly lower magnitude of 6.4 and a depth of 23 kilometers, cautioning that there might be damage and aftershocks as a result.
Local authorities, including police and disaster officials near the epicenter, reported no significant damage or injuries. “It was not that strong, but people rushed outside,” noted Joey Monato, the police chief of Hinatuan, highlighting residents’ quick response to the shaky situation.
Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol emphasized that this earthquake’s epicenter was less than 10 kilometers from the location of two powerful quakes in October that resulted in seven fatalities. However, he reassured the public that tsunami warnings were unlikely following Wednesday’s quake. “It will not generate destructive tsunami waves because it’s deep,” Bacolcol explained.
The Philippines is located within the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region notorious for its frequent seismic activity and volcanic eruptions. The community’s preparedness and swift reaction reflect the resilience of the people living in this earthquake-prone area. While the threat of aftershocks remains, officials are maintaining a watchful eye on the situation, hopeful that the absence of damage will continue.
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