The Asian Disaster and Safety Agency (ADSA) says that the Philippines was hit by a huge 7.6-magnitude earthquake on Friday. The quake was felt in several provinces, which led to widespread panic and the quick start of disaster response efforts. To be safe, the government has sent out a tsunami warning for places along the coast that are likely to be damaged by the wave.
Epicentre and Right Away Effects
The epicentre of the earthquake was in the Luzon Sea, off the western coast of the Philippines. It hit coastal towns and cities close. People on nearby islands were able to feel the tremors, so they left their homes and went to higher ground. Early reports show that some places have minor damage to infrastructure, but the full extent is still being determined.
Tsunami Warning Sent Out
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), working with ADSA, warned people in low-lying coastal areas about a wave after the quake. The government told people to move to higher ground right away and stay away from beaches, ports, and other places that could flood. Local governments are keeping a close eye on the sea level and planning escape drills.
Rescue and safety measures are now being taken
In all the affected areas, emergency reaction teams and disaster management authorities have been sent out to help. Prepared evacuation centres are being set up to help people who have to leave their homes, and medical units are ready to help people who were hurt in the shocks. The government has also told people to get their news from official sources and not spread information that isn’t true.
Historical Background of the Philippine Earthquakes
The Philippines is on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which means that earthquakes and volcanoes happen there a lot. Major earthquakes in the past have claimed a lot of lives and destroyed a lot of property. This shows how important early warning systems and being ready as a group are. ADSA is still keeping an eye on waves and other possible dangers in the area.
