A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday, causing widespread damage and a tsunami. The quake, centered offshore near General Santos, resulted in the deaths of at least four people and injured more than 200 others. Buildings and a key access bridge in the city sustained significant damage.

Immediate Response and Warnings

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for residents in vulnerable areas to move to higher ground, as tsunami warnings were also issued for nearby coastal regions in Indonesia and Malaysia. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center indicated that the immediate threat had passed within five hours of the quake, but advised continued vigilance due to potential sea level fluctuations.

General Santos, a city of over 700,000 people known for its tuna processing industry, experienced significant structural damage, including partially collapsed buildings and a temporarily closed airport, which led to the cancellation of 17 domestic flights. The earthquake also caused panic among students during morning ceremonies, resulting in minor injuries.

Regional Impact and Aftershocks

The earthquake, caused by movement in the Cotabato Trench, was followed by numerous aftershocks, some reaching magnitudes of up to 6.5. Tsunami waves were observed in the Philippine provinces of Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani, as well as in parts of Indonesia and Malaysia. Smaller sea changes were noted in other regions, including Japan and Papua New Guinea.

The Philippines, located on the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire,’ is prone to seismic activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and is frequently affected by typhoons and tropical storms.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.