An urgent tremor shook the Philippines, prompting officials to issue a tsunami warning for its coast and parts of Indonesia. This powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Mindanao region, sending ripples of concern across the region. Experts predict that waves could potentially reach up to three meters in some coastal areas.
Philippine authorities swiftly put out the tsunami alert early Friday morning, local time. Not long after, Indonesia followed suit, raising its own warning for coastal areas in North Sulawesi and Papua. These Indonesian regions lie more than 300 kilometers from where the earthquake hit. Indonesia’s geological agency pointed out these areas faced a real risk from potential tsunami waves.
Both countries’ weather and disaster agencies have told people living along the coasts to stay informed. They are advised to be prepared to move to higher ground if evacuation orders come. Rescue and monitoring teams continue to watch the situation closely.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center also issued its own alert at 9:32 AM. It confirmed the possibility of waves reaching as high as three meters above normal sea level along some Philippine coastlines. For Indonesia and Palau, the center expects waves to be closer to one meter above the usual tide. All agencies urge residents in these vulnerable areas to keep a watchful eye on updates.
Source: BBC