Magnitude 5.6 Earthquake Strikes Surigao del Norte, Philippines
A magnitude-5.6 earthquake shook General Luna in Surigao del Norte early Saturday morning, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The tectonic earthquake occurred east of General Luna at 2:42 a.m. with a depth of focus of 51 kilometers.
PHIVOLCS initially reported the quake at magnitude-5.7 with a depth of 40 kilometers, occurring at 2:43 a.m. While no damage has been reported, PHIVOLCS anticipates aftershocks.
Earthquake Intensity Felt Across Mindanao and Visayas
Reported intensities, based on people’s experiences and effects on structures, were recorded in multiple areas. In Surigao del Norte, the earthquake was felt at Intensity IV in Surigao City, General Luna, Del Carmen, San Isidro, Dapa, Claver, and Placer. Surigao del Sur experienced the same intensity in Tandag City, Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, Cortes, Tago, Bayabas, Cagwait, and San Miguel.
Intensity III was felt in Butuan City, as well as Dinagat, Cagdianao, San Jose, and Basilisa in Dinagat Islands. Intensity II was reported in Libjo, Tubajon, and Loreto in Dinagat Islands; Silago, Hinunangan, San Juan, Anahawan, Libagon, and Hinindayan in Southern Leyte; and Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental. Bislig City in Surigao del Sur felt the quake at Intensity I.
Instrumental intensities, measured by accelerometer readings, showed the quake’s reach extended beyond eastern Mindanao to the Visayas. Intensity III was recorded in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. Intensity II was logged in Sogod and Hinundayan in Southern Leyte; Dulag in Leyte province; Gingoog City and Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental; and Cebu City in Cebu province. Intensity I was recorded in Padre Burgos in Southern Leyte; Palo in Leyte; Malaybalay in Bukidnon; Nabuntaran in Davao de Oro; and Carcar in Cebu.
PHIVOLCS emphasizes that reported intensities, confirmed by staff, are more reliable than instrumental intensities.
Stay informed about earthquake activity in the Philippines. Visit the PHIVOLCS website for updates and safety guidelines.
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