Brace for strong aftershocks from magnitude 6.8 Surigao Sur quake

MANILA: Communities should prepare for moderate to strong aftershocks following the magnitude 6.8 earthquake that jolted Surigao del Sur last Saturday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Monday. Phivolcs has so far recorded 911 aftershocks as of 10 a.m. Monday. The tectonic earthquake was caused by the movement in the Philippine Trench. Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol told the Philippine News Agency that only two of these -- magnitudes 6.2 and 4.4 -- were felt. It was felt in several places because it was relatively shallow at 11 km., he said. Despite the magnitude 6.8 being a strong one, Phivolcs does not expect damage to infrastructure. "It's because the earthquake happened offshore, more than 80 km. away from nearest town. We would expect damage if it happened onshore," Bacolcol said. "If a strong earthquake occurs, people should 'drop, cover, and hold' for protection," he said. Coastal communities should watch for signs of a local tsunami, such as strong grou nd shaking, sudden sea level changes, and unusual sounds, he said. "If any of these signs are noticed, immediately move to higher ground or away from the shore," he said. Aftershocks are usually one degree lower than the main shock. It usually takes several weeks before aftershocks dissipate, Bacolcol said. Source: Philippines News Agency