Twin Earthquakes In The Philippines Kill Seven And Cause Extensive Damage

Two significant offshore earthquakes hit the southern Philippines on October 10, causing fatalities and injuries. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that seven people lost their lives, and 11 others were injured due to these tremors. The earthquakes, measuring 7.4 and 6.8 in magnitude, affected Davao Oriental and nearby provinces.

The initial earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.4, occurred off the coast of Manay in Davao Oriental on Friday morning. This was followed by a second quake of 6.8 magnitude in the evening. Both events prompted tsunami alerts for areas within 300 km of the epicentre, though these warnings were later lifted for both the Philippines and Indonesia.

The NDRRMC's latest report indicates that all fatalities were from the Davao Region, while one injury was recorded in Caraga. The earthquakes affected at least 3,519 families, comprising 8,436 individuals across Davao Region and Caraga. Of these, 2,468 families or 7,915 people are currently residing in evacuation centres.

Structural damage was widespread in towns near the epicentre. A total of 28 houses suffered damage, with five completely destroyed. Additionally, five road sections and one bridge in Davao Region, Soccsksargen, and Caraga are impassable due to the quakes.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a tsunami warning following the second quake. They cautioned that waves could rise more than one metre above normal tides. Residents near coastal areas were "strongly advised to immediately evacuate" to higher ground or move inland for safety.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely due to potential aftershocks. The community is urged to stay vigilant as further seismic activity may occur following these powerful quakes.

The impact of these earthquakes highlights the need for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies in vulnerable regions like Davao Oriental. Ensuring community safety remains a priority as recovery efforts proceed.

With inputs from WAM