The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported a decline in offshore earthquakes near Ilocos Sur, traced to the Manila Trench.
Since December 17, a series of earthquakes have been monitored, with the highest activity recorded from December 19 to 20.
During this period, Phivolcs documented a total of 49 earthquakes in the region.
“The graph shows that the highest number of recorded (noted by a single seismic station) and plotted (noted and located by three or more seismic stations) earthquakes occurred on December 19-20. In the past five days, their number has decreased.”
The tremors raised concerns about a potential catastrophic event, with estimates suggesting a magnitude 8.4 earthquake could occur.
Simulations indicate that such an earthquake could generate tsunami waves ranging from three to 15 meters high.
Phivolcs warned that these waves could reach Palauig, Zambales, within two minutes, with Vigan, Ilocos Sur potentially facing waves up to 14.7 meters high.
Phivolcs continues to monitor seismic activity closely to ensure public safety.
