Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Shakes Davao Occidental Coast
MANILA, Philippines — A magnitude 5.5 earthquake shook the coast of Davao Occidental early Saturday, following a stronger magnitude 6.1 tremor in the same area. The recent seismic activity has raised concerns among local communities and authorities.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that the magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck at 7:41 a.m., approximately 86 kilometers southeast of Sarangani town. The earthquake’s focus was measured at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, and it was confirmed to be tectonic in origin.
Expected Aftershocks and Impact
Local officials expect aftershocks to follow the main tremors. Damage assessments are ongoing, but initial reports suggest that the intensity was mostly slight, causing minimal disruption. Instrumental intensity readings showed an Intensity II (Slightly Felt) and Intensity I (Scarcely Perceptible) in nearby municipalities.
Alabel and Maasim in Sarangani province experienced these mild tremors, according to local sources. Residents reported feeling slight shaking but no immediate threats were noted.
Monitoring and Preparedness
Phivolcs provided this information through an automatic monitoring system, which offers preliminary data to help local governments and disaster response teams prepare for potential aftershocks. Authorities continue to urge residents to stay alert and follow safety protocols.
These consecutive earthquakes highlight the seismic vulnerability of the region, prompting a call for enhanced disaster readiness among communities along the Davao Occidental coast.
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