4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Philippines As Tropical Depression Zoraida Makes Landfall

Mother Nature strikes the Philippines once more as the typhoon-ravaged country is hit by a 4.8 magnitude earthquake overnight. According to RT, the earthquake hit the Philippines island of Bohol, with its epicenter in the San Isidro municipality of the island province.

The Epoch Times quoted the US Geological Survey saying that the earthquake hit near Tagbilaran, Bohol, an area that was ravaged by an earthquake last month. The Inquisitr reported that the earthquake had left as many as 93 people dead.

The 4.8 earthquake is said to have struck 41 miles south-southeast of Cebu, 72 miles east of Dumaguete, and 400 miles south of Manila and had a depth of 42.7 miles. It is still unclear if the quake caused any injuries or damage in the affected area besides that caused by Super Typhoon Haiyan.

While the quake may have taken place in the typhoon devastated area, residents said they only felt weak to moderate shaking. While many may have felt mild relief at the weak quake, others had more to worry about as Tropical Depression Zoraida made landfall.

According to The Weather Channel, Tropical Depression Zoraida, as named by the Philippine weather agency PAGASA, has brought locally heavy rain to parts of the southern and central Philippines. While the storm brought some thunderstorm activity, The Weather Channel has reported that is has already started to push west of the Philippine island chain.

Rescue efforts continue on as these storms make their way out of the Philippines. Aid has also started to make it’s way to the country, which is starting to bring some hope back to the devastated country. Many Filipino American’s are still waiting to hear from family members who got caught up in Super Typhoon Haiyan, and as time passes by, worry and concern only continues to mount. According to ABC News, officials say the death toll now stands at more than 1,700 people and is expected to continue climbing.

[photo credit: EU Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection via photopin cc]