Strong and shallow M5.9 earthquake hits Mindanao, Philippines

A strong earthquake registered by PHIVOLCS as M5.9 hit Mindanao, Philippines at 18:58 UTC on October 19, 2023 (02:58 LT, October 20). The agency is reporting a depth of 13 km (3.1 miles). USGS is reporting M5.9 at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles).

The epicenter was located 24.8 km (15.4 miles) WSW of Batuabi (population 2 319), 33.7 km (21 miles) ESE of San Mariano (population 18 668), and 85.9 km (53.4 miles) ENE of Davao (population 1 776 949), Davao, Philippines.

PHIVOLCS said the earthquake is tectonic in nature, adding that they expect both damage and aftershocks.

The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are a mix of vulnerable and earthquake-resistant construction. The predominant vulnerable building types are unknown/miscellaneous types and heavy wood frame construction.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

According to the USGS PAGER, 4 000 people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking, 110 000 strong and 1 062 000 strong.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google