Philippines: Warnings for sea-level disturbances issued following magnitude-6.2 offshore earthquake east of Visayas Region April 4 /update 1

Event

Officials with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PhiVOLCS) have issued a warning for minor sea-level disturbances following a magnitude-6.2 earthquake that occurred east of Visayas Region April 4. The warning states that strong currents and rapid changes of seawater levels are expected over the coming hours. Waves are expected to be below one meter (3 feet) above normal tides but may be higher on enclosed bays and straits. The first waves are expected to arrive between 21:02 April 4 and 12:54 April 5 and will likely continue for several hours. PhiVOLCS recommend people move away from the coasts of Catuandes, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar provinces. People located very near the shoreline are advised to move further inland.

The magnitude-6.2 earthquake occurred at 20:54 April 4 and the epicenter was about 195 km (121 miles) east-northeast of Legaspi. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 45 km (28 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in southeastern parts of Luzon and much of the eastern parts of the Visayas regions. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

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

Move away from the immediate coastline. Do not return to coastal areas local authorities determine that no further threat exists. 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.