Phivolcs issues tsunami warning for Pacific-facing coasts after magnitude 8.7 quake

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas facing the Pacific Ocean following a magnitude 8.7 earthquake off Russia's coast on Wednesday, July 30.

Tsunami waves less than one meter high are expected to arrive between 1:20 p.m. and 2:40 p.m., with potential continued activity over several hours.

Passenger ship operations in Samal Island and Davao City were temporarily suspended as of 2:07 p.m. following the advisory, while classes were also suspended in some areas of Davao.

Residents living very close to shorelines were told to move inland temporarily, while boat owners should relocate their vessels to avoid potential hazards.

Fisheries officials warned fisherfolk in 22 provinces to stay away from coastal areas potentially affected by tsunami waves and advised communities to seek alternative means of livelihood if impacted.

Boats already at sea were advised to remain in deep waters until further notice, as Phivolcs continues to monitor the situation and has ordered preemptive evacuations of residents in affected coastal areas.