A German geologist reiterated the existence of a tsunami risk all over the country, and raised his concern to Oriental Negros Gov. George Arnaiz.

Dr. Martin Falke of the German Development Service showed Arnaiz a map showing some parts of Oriental Negros that he identified as risk areas for tsunami.

Basically, the Philippines is located in a ring of fire which is an alignment of volcanoes and earthquake centers, Falke said, adding that the earthquakes being felt are strong enough to trigger a tsunami.

Other warning signs include the unusually sudden retreat of the sea, which could be mistaken as a low tide, especially if it follows a strong earthquake.

Another tsunami warning sign is when animals show unusual behavior. Dr. Falke explained that animals often sense natural disasters much earlier than human beings.

He called on local government units to conduct tsunami drills where escape routes are marked.

Aside from moving to higher grounds, when at sea, one should not go near the coastline but to the open sea which is safer. Falke also called on the people not to destroy mangrove forests, coral reefs and sand bars because they provide crucial protection for coastal communities against deadly tsunamis.

Rampant rumors of a tsunami has raised panic and caused some communities in Oriental Negros to evacuate their homes out of fear.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration noted that there is a need to coordinate and confirm critical disaster warnings with the concerned government science agencies such as the PhilVolcs.

Historically, the Moro Gulf earthquake in 1976 triggered a tsunami that killed 8,000 people in the region. A strong magnitude 7 earthquake is needed to cause a tsunami.*JG

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