Strong 7.6 earthquake hits Philippines, kills 1, triggers evacuation

A powerful earthquake that shook the southern Philippines has killed at least one person, as thousands were ordered to evacuate, including in Japan, after tsunami warnings that were later lifted.

The powerful magnitude 7.6 quake struck off the coast of Mindanao Island at a depth of 32km and was followed by four major aftershocks of magnitudes exceeding 6.0 over several hours into Sunday.

The initial quake that struck at 10:37pm (14:37 GMT) triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific region and sent residents along the east coast of Mindanao fleeing buildings, evacuating a hospital and seeking higher ground.