Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake Strikes off Mindanao Island

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Manila: The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported that a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck off Davao Oriental province in the southern Philippines on Wednesday morning.

The earthquake occurred at 11:02 a.m. local time at a depth of 42 kilometers, with the epicenter approximately 47 kilometers from the coastal town of Manay. Tremors were felt across the island.

The institute warned that the earthquake is likely to generate aftershocks and could cause damage, particularly in areas near the epicenter.

The Philippines is prone to frequent seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a zone of major tectonic plate boundaries known for earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Heavy Rains Kill 11 in Madagascar

Heavy rains that have been affecting Madagascar since late November have claimed 11 lives and injured six others, according to the country’s disaster management agency.

The capital, Antananarivo, is among the worst-hit areas. A total of 274 people have been affected, with 26 houses damaged or destroyed, the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management reported.

Authorities in Antananarivo have urged the public to remain vigilant and advised families living in old or unsafe houses to evacuate to safer locations.

Madagascar’s meteorological service warned that rainy conditions are expected to continue in the northwestern regions and central highlands, with rainfall also forecast in southern areas.

Located in the western Indian Ocean, Madagascar typically experiences its rainy season from November to March, which often brings flooding, displacement, and damage to agricultural land.