Magnitude 6.1 Earthquake Strikes Catanduanes, Aftershocks Anticipated

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake hit Bagamanoc, Catanduanes, early on Wednesday, with aftershocks expected but no significant damage anticipated. Phivolcs reported varying intensity levels felt across several regions, ranging from Intensity I to IV. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 38 kilometers.

On Wednesday morning, a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck Bagamanoc town in Catanduanes, Philippines, at precisely 5:19 a.m. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported the earthquake’s epicenter located east of Bagamanoc, with a depth of 38 kilometers. Although aftershocks are anticipated, no significant damage is expected due to this seismic event. The intensity of the earthquake was felt variably across several regions. Intensity IV was recorded in Virac, Catanduanes, and Tabaco City, Albay. Intensity III was felt in Mercedes, Camarines Norte, Caramoan, Sagñay in Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon City in Sorsogon. Other areas, such as General Nakar in Quezon, Legazpi City, Daet in Camarines Norte, Iriga City, Ragay, Sipocot, and San Roque in Northern Samar, experienced Intensity II. Lower intensities were reported in Jose Panganiban in Camarines Norte, Claveria in Masbate, Bulusan in Sorsogon, and Gandara in Samar, where Intensity I was felt. Phivolcs explained that reported intensity measures subjective perceptions of the earthquake’s strength as experienced by residents, while instrumental intensity is quantified using specific instruments. The agency has indicated that there are no forecasts of damage linked to this tremor. Moreover, the recent seismic activity follows a similar occurrence in Cebu, where local governments suspended face-to-face classes due to a magnitude 5.1 earthquake over the preceding weekend.

Earthquakes are common in the Philippines due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for significant seismic activity. This particular event in Catanduanes is part of the ongoing geological phenomena affecting the region. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology regularly monitors seismic events and provides updates to inform the public about potential threats, as well as the expected effects of earthquakes through intensity measurements. Understanding the measurements of intensity is crucial for assessing the earthquake’s impact on communities and ensuring public safety.

In summary, the magnitude 6.1 earthquake that occurred in Bagamanoc, Catanduanes, has raised expectations for aftershocks without significant damage anticipated. The varying intensities felt across different areas underline the earthquake’s breadth, while the monitoring efforts by Phivolcs remain vital in providing essential information to the public and local authorities. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as aftershocks may follow this seismic event.

Original Source: newsinfo.inquirer.net