Hawaii Breathes a Sigh of Relief: No Tsunami Threat After Powerful Philippine Quake
While a massive 7.4-magnitude earthquake rattled the southern Philippines today, officials confirm that Hawaii is safe from any tsunami threat. But here's where it gets tense: areas closer to the epicenter weren't so lucky. A tsunami warning was issued for coastal regions in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Palau, with potential waves reaching up to 10 feet above tide level in some areas.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) reassured Hawaii residents, stating, 'Based on all available data, a destructive Pacific-wide tsunami is not expected, and Hawaii remains tsunami-free.' The earthquake struck around 3:44 p.m. Hawaii time, originating near Manay town in the Mindanao region at a depth of approximately 6 miles.
And this is the part most people miss: This powerful quake comes just two weeks after the Philippines' deadliest earthquake in over a decade, which claimed 72 lives on Cebu Island. That quake, measuring 6.9 in magnitude, also struck offshore, raising questions about the region's seismic vulnerability.
Phivolcs officials warned of potential damage and aftershocks, urging residents in coastal towns across central and southern Philippines to evacuate to higher ground immediately. Edwin Jubahib, governor of Davao Oriental province, reported widespread panic and confirmed that some buildings sustained damage. 'It was very strong,' he told broadcaster DZMM.
Controversial Question: With two major quakes in such quick succession, is the Philippines experiencing an unusual seismic surge, or is this part of a natural cycle? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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