EXPLAINERNews|EarthquakesDeadly earthquake hits Philippines: What we know so farLocal authorities say nearly 70 people have been killed and hospitals in Cebu province are overwhelmed.
A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the central Philippines late on Tuesday night, resulting in at least 69 fatalities and over 140 injuries, as reported by local authorities.
A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the central Philippines late on Tuesday night, resulting in at least 69 fatalities and over 140 injuries, as reported by local authorities.
The earthquake occurred at 9:59 p.m. local time on Tuesday (13:59 GMT), approximately 12 miles northeast of Bogo City in Cebu Province, within the Visayas region. The quake's depth was approximately 10 km (6.2 miles), classifying it as a shallow earthquake, which typically causes more damage due to its proximity to the Earth's surface.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded four aftershocks of magnitude 5 or higher following the initial quake. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued, and later lifted, a tsunami alert for Leyte, Biliran, and Cebu provinces, citing no unusual wave activity.
Parts of Cebu Province have been declared in a “state of calamity” due to significant structural damage and power outages across Cebu and nearby islands. Bogo City, with approximately 90,000 residents, experienced the most severe impact, including more than 20 confirmed deaths. Additional casualties were reported in Medellin, Tabuelan, and San Remigio. Several historical churches and buildings were also damaged.
local time on Tuesday (13:59 GMT), approximately 12 miles northeast of Bogo City in Cebu Province, within the Visayas region.
The Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine National Police are actively involved in rescue operations, with the Department of Energy working to restore power. Overwhelmed hospitals in Bogo City have evacuated some patients due to aftershocks. The Philippine Red Cross is assisting with medical treatment, and local authorities have requested aid for water and equipment to support search and rescue activities.
Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro has advised residents to remain calm and seek open areas in case of further aftershocks.
The Philippines is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent seismic activity due to tectonic plate movements. This location results in regular mild earthquakes and volcanic activity. Efforts by Phivolcs and international organizations aim to enhance local preparedness and resilience to natural disasters.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.