Deadly Philippines earthquake found to have raised seabed by up to 2 metres | Philippines

A 7.8-magnitude earthquake off southern Mindanao island killed at least 61 people and raised the seabed by as much as 2 metres, according to the Philippine environment department. The quake, which occurred Monday, left at least 40 people missing, the disaster agency reported.

Why did the shoreline extend in southern Mindanao?

A shift in the Cotabato trench pushed the coastlines of Sarangani and Davao Occidental provinces upward, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said. This geological phenomenon, known as coastal uplift, exposed the seabed that was originally submerged.

The environment department reported on Sunday that the shoreline extended by as much as 200 metres in certain areas. Mapped uplift measured approximately 2 metres.

How is the earthquake affecting marine life?

Long stretches of coral reefs and seagrass beds have been exposed to the air, the environment department said. Images from the department’s regional office show large swaths of exposed coral covered in dead fish and other aquatic life.

The environment department stated that exposed corals and seagrass beds have begun dying off. This includes resident organisms such as eels, clams, shells, and reef fishes.

What happens next for the affected provinces?

Officials may continue to survey the region to determine the precise width of the affected area. An official speaking to Agence France-Presse on Sunday stated the full scale of the impact is not yet known due to the size of the area requiring a survey.

Given the Cotabato trench’s history of frequent seismic activity, the region could see further geological shifts. The environment department is likely to monitor the ongoing decay of exposed marine organisms and the resulting impact on the coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many casualties were reported from the earthquake?

At least 61 people died and at least 40 remain missing, according to the disaster agency.

What is coastal uplift?

It is a geological phenomenon where the seabed is pushed upward, exposing previously submerged areas and extending the shoreline.

Which provinces experienced the most significant seabed rise?

The coastlines of Sarangani and Davao Occidental provinces were pushed upward.

Do you think coastal communities are sufficiently prepared for geological shifts like coastal uplift?