A 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit Negros and Cebu around noon on February 6, causing landslides, destroying houses, and burying people in its wake, ABS-CBNNews.com reports. Military officials in Negros Oriental told ABS-CBNNews.com that at least 43 people died with many injured and still missing. Rescue workers experienced problems Monday night because the areas with landslides were dark and located in areas that could not accommodate large rescue troops.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said on February 7 that it has recorded 745 aftershocks. Director Renato Solidum warned citizens that more of them might be coming in the following days, but they are expected to weaken in magnitude over time. The most powerful aftershock was recorded at 6:10 PM on February 6 with a magnitude of 6.2.
Phivolcs also issued a tsunami warning on February 6 after the quake, which prompted thousands of Cebu residents to flee their homes and stay in evacuation centers. While the alert was lifted at 2:30 PM, residents preferred to spend the night at the evacuation centers for the safety of their families as aftershocks continued to rock the province.
For earthquake safety tips, check these out on FN:
- How to Prepare Your Home against Earthquakes
- Earthquake Safety: “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” or Triangle of Life”
- How to Practice Earthquake Safety in the Workplace
- Keeping Safe during an Earthquake
(Screencap from Phivolcs.dost.gov.ph)
