Sanatan Prabhat > Post Type > News > International News > 7.8-magnitude earthquake strikes the Philippines; 19 dead

7.8-magnitude earthquake strikes the Philippines; 19 dead

Tsunami waves exceeding 4.5 feet in height

Manila (Philippines) – A powerful earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale struck the Philippines on the morning of 8 June. According to local time, the earthquake occurred at 7:37 a.m. It caused damage to numerous buildings. Reports also indicate that some buildings collapsed at various locations across the country. According to information provided by the Police, 19 people have died so far due to the earthquake, while more than 200 have been injured.

Epicentre of the earthquake

The epicentre of the earthquake was located in the sea near Mindanao Island. The quake occurred approximately 32 kilometres south-west of the city of Maasim in Sarangani Province and at a depth of 33 kilometres.

Intensity of the tsunami

A tsunami followed the earthquake. The highest wave recorded measured 1.4 metres (approximately four-and-a-half feet). Neighbouring countries Indonesia and Malaysia, as well as Australia and New Zealand, had also issued tsunami warnings, which were later withdrawn.

Three important developments related to the earthquake

1. The port city of General Santos, with a population of more than 7,00,000, suffered the greatest damage. According to regional disaster management officials, at least seven people died in the city and 130 others were injured.

2. The disaster struck during flag-hoisting ceremonies as schools across the country had reopened on Monday following the summer holidays. Many children reportedly fainted due to fear.

3. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center had predicted that waves of up to three metres in height could strike some coastal areas of the Philippines. Warnings of waves up to one metre high had also been issued for certain parts of Indonesia and Malaysia.

Latest Articles