Major Quake Rattles Southern Philippines Following Deadly Twin Tremors

A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines late Saturday. This new tremor hit just one day after two massive quakes killed at least eight people. The seismic activity has left the region on high alert.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the latest quake occurred off the coast of Surigao del Sur. The area is the same region rocked by major tremors on Friday. Residents are now facing hundreds of aftershocks.

Region Reels from Back-to-Back Seismic Events

Friday’s seismic sequence began with a massive magnitude 7.4 offshore earthquake. It triggered landslides and prompted coastal evacuations. A second strong quake of magnitude 6.7 followed just hours later.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology recorded over 800 aftershocks. Its chief, Teresito Bacolcol, confirmed both quakes originated from the same fault line. The Philippine Trench remains highly active.

Ongoing Threats and Community Impact

The geological instability poses a continued threat to Mindanao island. Many coastal residents are sleeping outdoors due to safety fears. They fear being crushed by aftershocks in their homes.

Local authorities report the situation remains volatile. The series of quakes follows another deadly event in Cebu province recently. Government data shows that tremor killed 75 people.

The latest earthquake underscores the severe seismic vulnerability of the Philippines archipelago. This new tremor adds further strain to communities already grappling with recovery efforts. Southern Philippines earthquakes continue to challenge disaster response teams.

Thought you’d like to know

Where was the most recent Philippines earthquake?

The 6.0 magnitude quake struck off the southern coast. It was about 10 kilometers from Cagwait town in Surigao del Sur. The USGS reported a depth of 59 kilometers.

How many people died in the Friday earthquakes?

At least eight people were killed by the twin tremors. The first was a magnitude 7.4 quake. The second measured 6.7 in strength.

Are more aftershocks expected?

Yes, the Philippine seismology office expects aftershocks for weeks. They have recorded more than 800 since the first major quake. The region is riddled with major geological faults.

Was a tsunami warning issued?

Yes, local authorities issued tsunami warnings after the major quakes. This prompted evacuations in coastal areas. The warnings were later lifted.

Why is this region so prone to earthquakes?

The southern Philippines sits near the active Philippine Trench. This is a major fault line in the Pacific Ocean. The area frequently experiences significant seismic activity.

Trusted Sources

United States Geological Survey, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Reuters, Agence France-Presse