A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake has struck the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, triggering immediate tsunami warnings and evacuation orders for coastal communities. The tremor, felt strongly across the region, has authorities urging residents to seek higher ground due to the threat of dangerous tsunami waves.
The US Tsunami Warning System has flagged potential threats to coastlines within a 300 km radius of the epicenter. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) confirmed the offshore quake near Manay town in Davao Oriental, warning of significant wave activity.
PHIVOLCS anticipates the first tsunami waves could arrive between 9:43 a.m. and 11:43 a.m. PST on October 10, potentially lasting for hours. Wave heights are predicted to exceed one meter, with even greater surges possible in bays and straits.
Residents in low-lying areas of central and southern Mindanao have been advised to evacuate inland or move to elevated positions. Mariners are cautioned to secure their vessels and move offshore, while those at sea should remain in deep water until official clearance is given.
Early reports indicate substantial structural damage in Davao Oriental, with buildings and a church reportedly collapsing. Authorities are actively assessing the situation and coordinating relief efforts to support affected populations. Additionally, a tsunami warning has been issued for parts of Indonesia, including North Sulawesi and Papua.
