Philippines: Magnitude-6.1 offshore earthquake occurs near Masbate Province at around 02:10 PHST Feb. 16

Event

A magnitude-6.1 offshore earthquake occurred near the Philippines' Masbate Province at around 02:10 PHST Feb. 16. The epicenter was about 11 km (7 miles) north-northeast of Miaga. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 20 km (12 miles), and moderate-to-strong shaking was probably felt in parts of Masbate Province, with lighter shaking felt in areas further from the epicenter. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, damage is possible in areas near the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event did not immediately prompt the US Tsunami Warning System to issue a tsunami warning, advisory, watch, or threat; officials may update assessments in the coming hours.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.

Additionally, out of an abundance of caution, consider moving away from low-lying coastal areas until local authorities determine that no local tsunami threat exists.