PHILIPPINES: Sarangani, Davao Occidental hit by earthquake

A 6.1 magnitude shakes Sarangani in Davao Occidental, creates panic and fear.

Sarangani, the fourth class municipality in province of Davao Occidental experienced a 6.1 magnitude earthquake, 2 September 2015. With thousands of people residing, the quake creates fear and chaos that it might led to tsunami as it consist of 2 major islands and 1 minor islet located in Celebes Sea.

The Philippines is recorded to have earthquakes. It lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire causes the country to have frequent seismic and volcanic activity. Numerous large earthquakes of smaller magnitude occur regularly, due to meeting of major tectonic plates in the region. Earthquake then refers to the shaking of the surface of the Earth. This can be mild or a violent one that can destroy major buildings and even kill thousands of people.

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology in Davao Occidental recorded 2 September 2015, a magnitude 6.1 occurred 9:18 in the morning with 327 kilometers depth. However, no casualties and severe damage been reported but is expecting an aftershocks.

After a previous earthquake, aftershocks occur in the same region of the mainshock but of a smaller magnitude. They are formed as the crust around the displaced fault plane, adjusts to the effects of the main shock. Most earthquakes are caused by movement of Earth’s tectonic plates, however, human activity also produce earthquakes. Activities contribute to this such as storing large amounts of water behind a dam, drilling and injecting liquid into wells, and by coal mining and oil drilling.

Earthquake has a great human impact. It may cause injury, damage roads and bridges, general property damage, and collapse of buildings, and the worst is that loss of life. The aftermath of this incidence may bring disease, lack of basic necessities, and higher insurance premiums. In order to avoid severe damage and loss of life, emergency management strategies can be employed by government or organization, to be more ready for any consequences. IMAGE/GOOGLE MAPS

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