Powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake strikes the Philippines
Sunday’s event would likely be the country’s strongest earthquake in more than 30 years
A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the Philippines on Monday morning local time, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The earthquake was centred a few dozen kilometres south of the island of Mindanao, not far from General Santos City. The city is home to nearly three-quarters of a million residents.
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Initial reports on social media showed numerous collapsed buildings across General Santos City. There were no immediate casualty reports available.
Several strong aftershocks struck the region within two hours of the main earthquake, including a 6.1 and 6.0. Additional aftershocks are likely in the days and weeks to come.
According to the USGS, more than 10 million people in the region were exposed to “strong” or “very strong” shaking during this powerful earthquake.
The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center advised that a 1-3 metre tsunami was possible in parts of the Philippines in the quake's immediate aftermath. A tsunami advisory was in effect for Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands.
This was likely the most powerful earthquake to strike the Philippines since the M7.8 that struck Luzon in July 1990.
This is a rapidly unfolding event. Be sure to check back for the latest details.