Philippines: Tsunami warning rescinded after 6.9-magnitude quake Dec. 29 /update 1

Event

The US Tsunami Warning System has rescinded a tsunami warning issued following a 6.9-magnitude earthquake which struck off the island of Mindanao at approximately 11:39 (local time) on Saturday, December 29. There is no tsunami warning, watch, or threat currently in effect, and waves of less than 0.3 m (1 ft) above tide level are forecast for the shores of Indonesia, Palau, and the Philippines. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the earthquake was located at 5.8°N, 126.9°E at a depth of 49 km (31 mi). Aftershocks are possible in the area over the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals present in the affected region are advised to be prepared for aftershocks and to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.

In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.