17 Dec 2019 | 02:39 PM UTC
Philippines: Death toll from Mindanao Earthquake rises to eight December 17 /update 3
Officials confirm at least eight fatalities following a 6.8-magnitude earthquake on Mindanao December 17; further aftershocks possible
Event
Recovery operations continued on Tuesday, December 17, in Davao Del Sur province after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Mindanao on Sunday, December 15. Officials have confirmed at least eight fatalities in Padada, Matanao, Bansalan, Magsaysay, and Hagonoy. Over 149 people suffered injuries and around 1500 buildings were damaged.
According to media reports, there have been over 550 aftershocks recorded since Sunday, including some registering over 4.5-magnitude. Further aftershocks and crumbling infrastructure are possible in the coming days. Residual transportation, business, and power disruptions are expected in the coming hours and days.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks. 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), move away from the windows, and not attempt to leave a building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.
