The central Philippines was rattled by a powerful offshore earthquake, registering a preliminary magnitude of 6.0, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The quake struck Leyte province at 6:16 p.m. local time, sending tremors across the region and prompting concerns about potential aftershocks and damage.
The epicenter of the quake was located approximately 32 kilometers southeast of Dulag, a coastal town in Leyte province, at a depth of 8 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface. Residents in the affected areas reported feeling strong shaking, raising fears of structural damage and disruptions.
Given the tectonic nature of the quake, PHIVOLCS warned of the likelihood of aftershocks, urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. The seismic event serves as a stark reminder of the Philippines’ susceptibility to frequent tremors, attributed to its location along the volatile Pacific “Ring of Fire.”
The “Ring of Fire” is a horseshoe-shaped belt encircling the Pacific Ocean, notorious for its intense seismic and volcanic activity. Stretching from the coasts of South America, along the western North American continent, across the Pacific to Southeast Asia and Oceania, the region experiences a high frequency of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
As authorities assess the aftermath of the earthquake and monitor for potential aftershocks, residents are advised to stay informed and follow safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with seismic events.
Edited by News Desk