Tsunami advisory issued after 7.2 quake off Davao Oriental
A map released by the USGS shows the epicenter of the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that hit off the coast of Davao Oriental on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018. USGS IMAGE
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) told the public on Saturday to temporarily stay away from beaches and not go to the coast after a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck off Davao Oriental.
In its Tsunami Information No. 1, Phivolcs said, “Minor sea level disturbances such as strong currents and rapid rise and fall of seawater could be expected.” The public was advised to stay alert for unusual waves.
The agency advised people to stay away from coasts fronting the Philippine Sea from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the following provinces:
Compostela Valley
Davao Del Norte
Davao Del Sur
Davao Oriental
Davao City
Sarangani
South Cotabato
Agusan Del Norte
Agusan Del Sur
Surigao Del Norte
Surigao Del Sur
People whose houses are located near the shores of said provinces were advised to move farther inland, Phivolcs said.
Owners of boats in harbors, estuaries or shallow coastal water should secure their boats and move away from the water.
Phivolcs said boasts that were already at sea from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. to stay offshore in deep waters. /cbb
