Abra Officials Declare State of Calamity in the Province
ABRA – The province is placed under the State of Calamity following a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0.
Earthquakes are hard to predict. Experts share a common ground that these are among the natural events that can hardly be predicted as they are. There is no accurate prediction as to when an earthquake may occur, all the areas that may feel the shaking, and its intensity. Thus, everyone is encouraged to be aware of the first things to do when it happens.
Every day, there are a lot of quakes happening in different parts of the world. The Philippines which is one of the nations lying along the Pacific Ring of Fire is one of the countries that are prone to quakes. There were several instances in the past when strong quakes led to sky-rise infrastructures trembling down.
Recently, a strong earthquake that was initially recorded by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) at a magnitude of 7.3 hit Abra. After a few minutes, it was downgraded by the agency to 7.0 magnitude.
However, the quake that hit Abra was strong enough to cause a lot of damage to infrastructures. The shaking was even felt in several parts of Metro Manila. Many people who are inside their offices had to evacuate due to the strong shaking.
At least five (5) people were reported dead due to the quake. The NDDRMC also noted that at least 60 individuals were left injured by the incident.
Based on a report on ABS-CBN News, the provincial council placed Abra under the State of Calamity following the strong earthquake that severely damaged properties. The council also noted that the incident has affected almost 80% of the population.
Abra Governor Dominic Valera signed the resolution placing the province under the State of Calamity. The declaration will allow the government to use the calamity funds and control the prices of basic goods. The residents affected by the quake may also apply for loans without interest.
Currently, work and classes are suspended in the province due to the quake. Workers and students are expected to report to work and school on Monday, August 1, 2022.
Thank you for visiting Philnews.ph. You may express your thoughts and reactions below through the comment section. You may also follow us on Facebook, on Twitter, and subscribe to our YouTube channel Philnews Ph.
READ ALSO: Earthquake Today Abra: Photos of Aftermath in La Trinidad, Benguet
