A 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit General Luna, Surigao del Norte, at 2:43 AM today, December 28, 2024. The tremor, which was felt across various parts of Mindanao and Visayas, has prompted local authorities to assess damage and issue safety advisories.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Intensity IV was reported in several areas in Surigao del Norte, including General Luna, Del Carmen, San Isidro, Dapa, and Claver. The town of Cortes in Surigao del Sur also experienced the same level of shaking. This level of intensity typically causes light to moderate shaking of indoor items and rattling of windows, with people feeling the earthquake indoors.
In addition, Intensity I was reported in the City of Bislig, Surigao del Sur, where the tremor was felt weakly but noticeably by residents. This lower intensity indicates a lesser impact but still requires vigilance from authorities, particularly in monitoring any aftershocks.
The earthquake’s instrumental intensities were as follows:
- Intensity III was recorded in the City of Tandag, Surigao del Sur, indicating light shaking, which could have been felt by some people indoors.
- Intensity II was observed in Mambajao, Camiguin; the City of Cebu; Dulag, Leyte; the City of Gingoog, Misamis Oriental; and Sogod, Southern Leyte, signifying a faint shaking that could be detected only by those inside buildings or near open fields.
- Intensity I was also reported in the towns of Malaybalay, Bukidnon; Carcar, Cebu; Nabunturan, Davao de Oro; Palo, Leyte; and Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte, where the tremor was barely perceptible but still captured by sensitive instruments.
PHIVOLCS has advised residents to stay alert for potential aftershocks, as they may follow the initial earthquake. Local authorities are conducting damage assessments, and no reports of injuries or significant structural damage have been confirmed as of now. The government and emergency services are on standby to assist affected areas.
This earthquake serves as a reminder of the seismic activity in the region, urging residents to review and follow earthquake safety protocols. Further updates will be provided by PHIVOLCS as more information becomes available.