A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck Leyte in the Philippines, with tremors also felt in Sandakan, Sabah.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) reported that the quake occurred at 9:59 p.m., about 50 kilometers northwest of Ormoc, Philippines, at a depth of 10 kilometers.
“Tremors were felt in Sandakan, Sabah. There is no tsunami threat to Malaysia,” MetMalaysia said in a statement on Facebook, adding that those who experienced the shaking are encouraged to fill out a survey form via the provided link.
Meanwhile, Xinhua reported, citing the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), that the quake—centered about 17 kilometers northeast of Bogo City—was also felt in Northern Samar, Bohol, Sorsogon, and other nearby central Philippine provinces.
So far, no casualties have been reported. However, Phivolcs warned that aftershocks are expected and the quake could potentially cause significant damage.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol also advised residents to stay away from coastal areas due to possible minor sea level disturbances.
Authorities confirmed that the upper section of an old church had collapsed, and several areas experienced power outages following the strong quake.
The Philippines, an archipelago, is highly prone to seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire.”
