Magnitude 6.1 Earthquake Hits Catanduanes; Aftershocks Expected

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake hit Bagamanoc, Catanduanes, early Wednesday morning, with an epicenter located east of the town at a depth of 38 kilometers. Various intensities were reported across several regions, with no significant damage anticipated. Aftershocks are expected.

On Wednesday morning, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck Bagamanoc, Catanduanes, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The earthquake, which occurred at 5:19 a.m., had an epicenter located east of Bagamanoc and struck at a depth of 38 kilometers. Phivolcs indicated that aftershocks could be anticipated following this seismic event. The intensities of the tremor were felt in various areas as follows: – Intensity IV: Virac, Catanduanes; and Tabaco City, Albay – Intensity III: Mercedes, Camarines Norte; Caramoan, and Sagñay, Camarines Sur; and Sorsogon City, Sorsogon – Intensity II: General Nakar, Quezon; Legazpi City, Albay; Daet, Camarines Norte; Iriga City, Ragay, and Sipocot, Camarines Sur; and San Roque, Northern Samar – Intensity I: Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte; Claveria, Masbate; Bulusan, Sorsogon; and Gandara, Samar According to Phivolcs, while a reported intensity denotes the strength of the earthquake as perceived by individuals, instrumental intensity relates to measurements taken by an intensity meter or scale. Phivolcs also noted that no significant damage is anticipated as a result of this earthquake. Additionally, it was mentioned that several local governments in Cebu previously suspended face-to-face classes on Monday following a magnitude 5.1 earthquake that struck the province on Sunday.

Earthquakes are natural seismic events caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust, resulting in seismic waves. The magnitude of an earthquake is measured on the Richter scale or moment magnitude scale, indicating the energy released. Aftershocks are smaller tremors that follow the main shock and can persist for days or even months. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) plays a crucial role in monitoring seismic activity and providing vital information to minimize risks associated with earthquakes in the Philippines, which is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it susceptible to seismic events.

In conclusion, the 6.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Bagamanoc, Catanduanes, early Wednesday morning prompted notifications of expected aftershocks but no significant damage has been reported. The earthquake’s effects varied across several regions, with varying intensities registered. The authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide vital updates to the public regarding aftershocks and seismic safety measures.

Original Source: cebudailynews.inquirer.net