Magnitude 4 earthquake in Cebu causes no damage

CEBU, Philippines - An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.0 disturbed residents of Tuburan, Cebu, yesterday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology-7 said.

No damage or injuries were reported.

The quake’s epicenter was reportedly five kilometers southeast and four kilometers deep from Tuburan town. It occurred at exactly 8:20 a.m. and caused some panic after residents saw water tanks wobble like they were going to collapse.

Phivolcs-7 Science research specialist Rolando Montañez said that no damages were reported since the said magnitude was weak.

Earthquakes with magnitude and intensity level 6.0 and above are the ones that the public must be warned of since its effects may range from moderate damage in populated areas, serious damage and severe destruction over large areas and loss of life.

The recent earthquake was of tectonic origin when several earth plates in the area of occurrence collided or slid past each other causing vibrations.

Montañez said that though Cebu or Central Visayas is some distance from the Philippine fault zone, it is still vulnerable to high magnitude and strong intensity earthquakes at any time.

In Cebu City the quake was felt at intensity 3.0 while it was felt at intensity 1.0 in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.

No aftershocks were recorded after it hit, Philvocs said.

Montañez added that Cebu experiences about 10 light earthquakes per year. No major earthquake has occurred yet here but this should not be a basis for confidence or lack of precaution among the public.

Phivolcs said they should not neglect earthquake preparedness reminders.

The public is suggested to make an emergency kit, do a first-aid course and write an earthquake plan. If planning to build a structure, seek expert advice on foundations, check and repair cracks in walls, and gaps, keep hanging items like mirrors and ceiling lamps away from beds and chairs, secure free-standing bookshelves, cabinets and the like and know the safest areas during an earthquake. — Jessica Ann R. Pareja/BRP   (FREEMAN NEWS)