Don't livestream, watch out for tsunami warning signs – Phivolcs
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Wednesday warned the public against livestreaming or taking videos near the shore during strong earthquakes, urging coastal residents to move to higher ground at the first sign of a possible tsunami.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol issued the reminder during an interview on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, following reports of residents filming the receding seawater and tremors during recent earthquakes in Mindanao.
“Nakita namin na may mga nagla-livestream pa malapit sa dagat. Hindi po namin ito nirerekomenda dahil maaaring bumalik ang alon at maging biktima pa kayo (We saw people doing Facebook Live near the coast. We do not recommend that because the wave might return and you could become a casualty),” Bacolcol said.
He reiterated that there are three natural warning signs of an impending tsunami — strong ground shaking that makes it difficult to stand, sudden seawater withdrawal, and a loud roaring sound from the ocean.
“Kapag napansin ninyo kahit isa lang sa tatlong palatandaang ito, agad kayong tumakbo sa mataas na lugar (Even if you notice just one of these, immediately move to higher ground),” he said.
Bacolcol said Phivolcs continues to monitor aftershocks and coordinate with local government units to reinforce public awareness and disaster preparedness.
“Yung ilang segundo lang na pagdedesisyon, maaaring makapagligtas ng buhay (Those few seconds of decision-making can save lives),” he added. (PNA)