Magnitude 7.8 earthquake strikes off the coast of the Philippines, triggering tsunami warnings

Residents in the Philippines were rattled by a powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake, triggering a tsunami warning across the region.

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The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake struck off the island of Mindanao, about 15 miles west-southwest of Burias, Philippines, at 6:37 p.m. EST (7:37 a.m. PHST).

The earthquake had a depth of about 22 miles, a relatively shallow depth, causing many residents in the area to feel strong shaking.

According to the USGS, the initial earthquake was severe and had an estimated intensity of VIII on the Mercalli intensity scale, meaning the shaking was intense, felt by everyone in the area and caused widespread alarm among residents.

Damage was reported as negligible in well-designed buildings, with some moderate damage to structures of substandard design or construction.

However, in poorly built structures, there were reports of partial collapse, including broken chimneys, damaged factory stacks and columns, collapsed boundary walls and heavy furniture being overturned.

Following the initial quake, there were 6 smaller aftershocks that occurred in the same area. The USGS reported aftershocks of magnitudes ranging from 6.5 to 4.0. 

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The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reported that tsunami waves up to 10 feet were possible along the coasts of the Philippines, while waves up to 3 feet were possible on some coasts of Indonesia and Malaysia.

Additionally, Taiwan, Japan, Guam, Papua New Guinea and numerous nearby islands were placed under tsunami warnings.

The USGS said there is no tsunami danger to the North American coast, including the U.S. and Canada, following the recent earthquake.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency also reported that there was no threat to the Hawaii coast following the earthquake. 

Stick with Fox Weather as this situation continues to unfold.