19 Dec 2024 | 08:01 PM UTC
Philippines: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Philippine Sea at around 03:22 Dec. 20
Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs east of Samar Island, Philippines, at 03:22 Dec. 20. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Philippine Sea, east of the Philippines' Samar Island, at around 03:22 Dec. 20. The epicenter was about 125 km (78 miles) east of Dapdap, Philippines. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of the Philippines' Eastern Visayas and Caraga regions. 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 where shaking occurred.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
