Magnitude 4.2 Earthquake Strikes Leyte, Philippines: A Recap

 

On the evening of February 27, 2024, at precisely 08:53:25 PM local time, the earth beneath Leyte, Philippines, stirred as a magnitude 4.2 earthquake jolted the region. The epicenter was located at 11.32°N, 124.56°E, merely 10 kilometers south and 54° east of Leyte. While the depth of focus was measured at a relatively shallow 7 kilometers, the earthquake's origin was attributed to tectonic activity.

The impact of the tremor rippled across the area, registering various intensities in different locales. Leyte, the epicenter's vicinity, experienced Intensity IV, indicating moderate shaking. Surrounding areas such as Capoocan, Calubian, and San Isidro in Leyte, as well as Cabucgayan and Biliran in Biliran, reported Intensity III, signaling slight to moderate shaking. Further out, locations like Kananga, Carigara, Tunga, Tabango, Villaba, and Barugo in Leyte, along with Naval, Almeria, Kawayan, and Caibiran in Biliran, felt Intensity II, representing faint tremors. Even more distant areas like Babatngon in Leyte sensed Intensity I, indicating minimal shaking.

Instrumental intensities, measured by monitoring equipment, aligned with the reported intensities. Leyte recorded an Instrumental Intensity of IV, confirming the moderate shaking experienced in the region. Meanwhile, locations such as Kananga, Villaba, and Alangalang in Leyte, as well as the City of Catbalogan and Villareal in Samar, and Kawayan and Naval in Biliran, registered an Instrumental Intensity of II, denoting faint vibrations.

Despite the significant movement of the earth, fortunately, no damage was expected from this seismic event. Additionally, aftershocks were not anticipated, providing some relief to the affected communities.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) promptly issued a report on the earthquake on the same day, February 27, 2024, at 11:33 PM local time. This timely dissemination of information is crucial for public awareness and preparedness in earthquake-prone regions like the Philippines.

While earthquakes are natural phenomena that are often unpredictable, the swift response and dissemination of information by authorities play a vital role in mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety of the population. With continued monitoring and preparedness efforts, communities can better withstand the impact of such seismic events in the future.