Philippines: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs off the southeast coast of Samar Island at around 16:03 May 7

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Philippine Sea off the southeast coast of Samar Island at around 16:03 May 7. The epicenter was about 9 km (6 miles) east of Hernani, Eastern Samar Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 62 km (39 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in southeastern coastal areas of Samar Island near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout much of Eastern Visayas and parts of central and eastern Central Visayas, southern Bicol, and northern Caraga regions. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.