The Big One may rock the entire Negros Island.
It appears Metro Manila is not the only area at risk for the Big One, and here’s what the authorities said about this.
Are we ready for the Big One? Previously, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit the province of Cebu, which was followed by several strong earthquakes in various provinces. The series of strong tremors that hit different parts of the country brought fear of the Big One among the people.
No one knows when this will happen, and many fear that it could happen anytime now.
It is expected to have its center along the West Valley Fault. Historically, major movements along this fault occur every 400 to 600 years. Since its last activity was recorded around 1658, scientists say the likelihood of experiencing a major jolt along this fault line increases with each passing year.
Recently, Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-Phivolcs) Director Teresito Bacolcol said that this event could not just affect Metro Manila. This could also shake the entire Negros Island with a strong intensity.
Accordingly, the Negros Trench can generate a massive magnitude 8.2 earthquake. This trench is located northeast of the Sulu Trench and west of the Negros Island Region in the Visayas. It is about 400 kilometers long, lying within the Sunda Plate in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
This intensity can shake the entire island, and it is also noted that a shallow earthquake of this magnitude could generate a tsunami affecting the western coastlines of Negros and Panay, with possible impacts extending to Palawan and Zamboanga.
“People living near the sea should know the natural signs of a tsunami as it could happen within five minutes of the main strike. People should immediately run for higher ground instead of stopping to take Facebook photos,” Bacolcol said.
Among the signs to look for before a tsunami happens are a very strong shaking that you can’t even stand, a sudden drop in sea level, and a roaring sound from the sea.
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