Philippines Shaken by 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake

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Residents in the Philippines were allowed to return home following a magnitude 7.5 earthquake that struck the southern part of the country. The quake resulted in at least one casualty and prompted coastal evacuations and tsunami alerts in both the Philippines and Japan.

The quake, which occurred on Saturday night, affected Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental provinces, causing minor damage to some infrastructure. Tragically, a woman lost her life when a wall collapsed as she and her family were fleeing their home in Tagum city.

Despite initial tsunami warnings, the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology stated that the threat had largely passed, but advised residents in vulnerable communities to follow local authorities’ instructions. Over 600 aftershocks were recorded, urging caution as people resumed normal activities.

In Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, evacuees have returned to their homes, with disaster officials prepared for further evacuations if necessary. The Philippine Coast Guard remains on high alert, ready to dispatch vessels and aircraft if needed.

While minor damage to homes and infrastructure was reported, the aviation agency noted minor cracks in wall tiles at some regional airports. Aftershocks continue, with the strongest reaching a magnitude of 6.5, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre.

The Philippines is situated on the “Ring of Fire,” a region prone to seismic activity due to its encirclement by volcanoes. The US Tsunami Warning System initially predicted waves of up to 3 meters, but actual measurements were significantly lower.

As the affected areas recover, the community remains vigilant amid ongoing seismic activity, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone regions.