Philippines: Magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurs near Babuyan Islands at around 07:31 March 23

Event

A magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurred near Babuyan Islands at around 07:31 March 23. The epicenter was about 71 km (44 miles) north of Namuac. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 30 km (19 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt near the epicenter in the Babuyan Islands, with light shaking across the rest of Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, and Ilocos Region. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. 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 has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

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

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.