Manila, Philippines – A strong magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck near Leyte in the central Philippines on Tuesday, shaking cities across the Visayas region, including Cebu, Bohol, and Samar.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck at 2:59 p.m. local time (0659 GMT) with an epicenter about 11 kilometers east-southeast of Calape, Bohol, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles). Residents reported intense shaking lasting several seconds, with early data indicating possible structural damage and ground failures.
The National Tsunami Warning Center in Alaska confirmed there is no tsunami danger for the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, or British Columbia. Philippine officials have not issued a tsunami warning locally but are continuing to monitor aftershocks and potential secondary hazards.
Preliminary assessments from USGS rate the earthquake’s intensity as “VIII – Severe” in parts of the affected region, with significant risk of landslides and liquefaction. The PAGER system issued a “Yellow” alert, indicating possible economic losses and limited casualties.
In Cebu City and surrounding provinces, residents reported power interruptions and people rushing out of buildings as the quake hit. Social media posts showed cracked walls and debris in some areas, though full damage reports are still pending.
Authorities urge residents to remain alert for aftershocks and to follow guidance from local disaster offices. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
