Post by : Rameen Ariff

MANILA – The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has downgraded the offshore earthquake that struck Surigao del Norte province on October 13 to magnitude 6 from the initially reported 6.2. The earthquake, which shook the southern Philippines early in the morning at 7:03 a.m. local time, occurred at a depth of 28 kilometers, approximately 13 km southeast of General Luna municipality in the Mindanao region. PHIVOLCS warned that this magnitude 6 earthquake may trigger aftershocks and could still result in significant damage in nearby areas.

The magnitude 6 earthquake in Surigao del Norte was widely felt across neighboring provinces in Mindanao and even parts of the central Philippines. Residents reported strong tremors shaking homes and buildings, causing momentary panic. Officials confirmed that, so far, no casualties or structural damage have been officially reported, but they continue to monitor the situation closely. The magnitude 6 earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the Philippines’ constant vulnerability to seismic activity due to its location in the Pacific “Ring of Fire.”

This recent magnitude 6 earthquake is part of a series of powerful quakes to hit the Philippines this month. On October 10, twin offshore tremors of magnitude 7.4 and 6.8 struck Davao Oriental province, claiming eight lives. Earlier, on September 30, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake rocked Bogo City in Cebu province, killing 76 people. Following these events, multiple magnitude 4 and 5 aftershocks have been recorded across the archipelago, causing landslides and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. The magnitude 6 earthquake in Surigao is yet another indicator of the heightened seismic risk facing the region.

Experts explain that earthquakes in the Philippines, including this magnitude 6 tremor in Surigao, are caused by the constant movement of tectonic plates along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The plates slowly shift, but friction at their edges causes them to stick. When stress overcomes this friction, energy is released in waves, producing the shaking that residents feel during a magnitude 6 earthquake. This scientific explanation underscores the Philippines’ status as one of the most disaster-prone countries globally, prone to magnitude 6 earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions.

Authorities have urged residents near Surigao del Norte to remain alert following the magnitude 6 earthquake and to follow safety protocols during aftershocks. Emergency teams are on standby to respond to any incidents arising from this magnitude 6 tremor. PHIVOLCS continues to track seismic activity, noting that while the magnitude 6 earthquake has been downgraded, the risk of aftershocks and related hazards remains significant. The magnitude 6 earthquake serves as a timely reminder for preparedness and vigilance in the Philippines.

The magnitude 6 earthquake in Surigao del Norte, along with the series of recent quakes across Mindanao and Cebu, highlights the urgent need for disaster readiness and public awareness. Authorities emphasize that while the magnitude 6 earthquake did not cause immediate fatalities, its potential to trigger aftershocks, landslides, and structural damage cannot be underestimated. Residents are urged to stay informed, follow official advisories, and maintain emergency supplies in case another magnitude 6 earthquake strikes.

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