Phivolcs warns of tsunami amid earthquakes in Ilocos

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has warned of tsunami amid a series of earthquakes in Santa Catalina town in Ilocos Sur, as it said a magnitude 8.4 temblor might spawn waves as high as 14.7 meters that may hit Vigan City.

Phivolcs said it has monitored a series of earthquakes since Dec. 17 at the Manila Trench offshore of Santa Catalina.

State seismologists said at least 178 earthquakes were recorded with magnitudes ranging between 1.8 and 5.0 as of last Sunday. Of that total, 62 were plotted and two were felt, with the depth of focus ranging from one kilometer to 80 km.

“Based on the model, the worst-case scenario in case the entire Manila Trench segment 2 moves, would be a magnitude 8.4 earthquake. Remember, earthquakes and tsunamis cannot be predicted,” Phivolcs said, adding that the signs of tsunami include strong earthquakes, drop in water level and roaring sound from the ocean.

“If one of these signs is felt, immediately evacuate to higher areas or away from the sea,” it added.