The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported on Tuesday, January 16, that a magnitude 5.0 aftershock shook Surigao del Sur. The tremor, which had a depth of 29 kilometers, was a result of the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur on December 2, 2023. Phivolcs initially recorded the aftershock as a 4.5 magnitude on Monday, January 15, at 7:31 p.m. but later revised it to 5.0.
The epicenter of the aftershock was located 31 kilometers northeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. Phivolcs recorded Intensity III (weak) in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, and Intensity II (slightly felt) in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. The earthquake was determined to be tectonic, caused by the movement of an active fault near the area.
Despite the aftershock, Phivolcs reassured the public that no damages were expected and that no further aftershocks were anticipated. The institute continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
