A magnitude 4.5 earthquake struck Northern Luzon on Thursday afternoon, causing tremors in La Union and nearby provinces. The quake occurred at 2:33 p.m. and was centered at a depth of 11 kilometers in Pugo, La Union. This seismic event was followed by a series of instrumental readings that indicated the extent of the earthquake's impact. The earthquake's effects were felt across multiple provinces, with varying intensities reported in different areas.
The earthquake's impact was most strongly felt in Baguio City and Tuba, Benguet, as well as the La Union towns of Tubao and Pugo, where Intensity V shaking was recorded. This level of intensity indicates strong shaking that was felt indoors by most people, prompting many to seek open spaces. As a result, schools and government offices, as well as private offices in buildings, temporarily suspended operations to allow for structural inspections.
The aftermath of the earthquake saw a number of students being taken to the hospital after fainting and experiencing panic attacks. The Baguio police reported that several students were brought to the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center for treatment. Meanwhile, other areas experienced lesser intensities, with Intensity IV felt in several towns in La Union and Benguet, including San Fernando City and Itogon.
Instrumental readings also indicated Intensity IV in Aringay, La Union, and Intensity III in Sison, Pangasinan. Additionally, Intensity II was recorded in Urdaneta City, and Intensity I in Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, and Lingayen, Pangasinan. The varied intensities reported across different areas highlight the complex nature of the earthquake's impact on the region.
The earthquake's effects were widespread, with multiple provinces and cities affected. In addition to La Union and Benguet, the earthquake was also felt in Pangasinan, where Intensity III was experienced in Dagupan City and several towns. The full extent of the earthquake's impact is still being assessed, but it is clear that the region has been significantly affected by this seismic event.
