Very strong M6.7 earthquake hits Mindanao, Philippines – 9 fatalities, hundreds of homes damaged

A very strong earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.7 hit near the coast of Mindanao, Philippines at 08:14 UTC on November 17, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 78 km (48.5 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth, BMKG M6.9 at a depth of 54 km (33.5 miles).

The epicenter was located 26.7 km (16.6 miles) WSW of Burias (population 4 066), 31.3 km (19.5 miles) SSW of Glan (population 24 256), 50.1 km (31.1 miles) SSW of Malapatan (population 19 439), and 56.4 km (35 miles) SSW of Lun Pequeño (population 11 541), Soccsksargen, Philippines

1 716 000 people are estimated to have felt strong shaking, 2 842 000 moderate and 8 978 000 light.

Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake, NWS PTWC said.

The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are a mix of vulnerable and earthquake resistant construction. The predominant vulnerable building types are unknown/miscellaneous types and heavy wood frame construction.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Updates

November 18

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported 7 fatalities.

NDRRMC said it is validating reports that one died in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental; one in Malapatan, Sarangani; two in Glan, Sarangani; and three in General Santos. Two are also missing in Glan while two were injured in General Santos.

Around 450 persons were given medical care due to hyperventilation and panic in the Davao Region and Soccsksargen.

NDRRMC reported a total of 32 damaged infrastructures in Davao City, Davao Occidental, Davao del Sur, General Santos, South Cotabato and Sarangani. 

November 20

The number of fatalities stands at 9. At least 15 people were injured and more than 12 885 were affected across Davao Occidental in Region XI, southern Mindanao, DG ECHO reports.

In addition, at least 826 houses, 118 infrastructure, 16 roads, and 5 bridges have been damaged.

At least 21 municipalities were affected by power interruptions and an earthquake-induced landslide has been reported in Region XI.

Schools and working activities are still closed in 14 municipalities.

As of November 20, search and rescue operations are completed.