A moderately strong earthquake measuring magnitude-5.1 on the Richter scale jolted parts of the Caraga region yesterday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported.
The tremor was recorded at around 9:19 a.m. It originated 24 kilometers northeast of Tandag, Surigao del Sur with a depth of 20 kms.
It was felt as a “moderately strong” or Intensity 4 earthquake in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur. An Intensity 4 tremor is felt “generally by people indoors and some people outdoors.”
It was felt as Intensity 3 or “weak tremor” in Surigao City and Socorro, Surigao del Sur and Intensity 2 or “slightly felt” in Butuan City.
Minutes later, a 3.3-magnitude earthquake was recorded, which originated 29 kms northeast of Tandag, Surigao del Sur. Phivolcs did not recorded any intensity for this earthquake.
However, Phivolcs warned the public of possible aftershocks.
Last February 10, a strong earthquake measuring magnitude 6.7 shook the island of Mindanao. Phivolcs said the epicenter was located 16 kms offshore northwest of Surigao City.
The earthquake was generated by the movement of the Surigao segment of the Philippine Fault. Small magnitude earthquakes followed afterwards. (Ellalyn B. de Vera)