LUCENA CITY, Philippines – There was no earthquake, but a prank text message circulated on a supposed tsunami alert in Tayabas Bay and sent residents of Candeleria, Quezon fleeing their homes Tuesday night.
A 64-year-old woman reportedly died in a stampede as villagers rushed to evacuate. Other reports though said she died of heart attack.
Local officials were quick to deny such a tsunami alert and clarified that tsunamis are only caused by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.
Villagers were also advised to heed only official alerts from the proper government agencies.