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Fault Lines/Manila Trench

Manila Trench

๐Ÿ”ด Active

An oceanic trench west of the Philippines, capable of producing large megathrust earthquakes. It extends from Taiwan to Mindoro and poses tsunami risk to western Luzon.

600km long
M7.6Max historical
9Provinces

Is the Manila Trench dangerous?

Yes โ€” a major active fault

The Manila Trench is an active fault running roughly 600 km and crossing 9 provinces. An oceanic trench west of the Philippines, capable of producing large megathrust earthquakes. It extends from Taiwan to Mindoro and poses tsunami risk to western Luzon. It is considered capable of earthquakes up to about M7.6. Its last major event was the 1934 Manila Trench Earthquake.

Location

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Last major event: 1934 Manila Trench Earthquake

Recent Earthquakes Near This Fault

2.7Ms

098 km N 83ยฐ W of Bolinao (Pangasinan)

35 km deep
2.7Ms

097 km N 81ยฐ W of Bolinao (Pangasinan)

22 km deep
3.0m

PHILIPPINE ISLANDS REGION

32 km deep

FAQ

Manila Trench: frequently asked questions

Is the Manila Trench dangerous?+

The Manila Trench is an active fault running roughly 600 km and crossing 9 provinces. An oceanic trench west of the Philippines, capable of producing large megathrust earthquakes. It extends from Taiwan to Mindoro and poses tsunami risk to western Luzon. It is considered capable of earthquakes up to about M7.6. Its last major event was the 1934 Manila Trench Earthquake.

How large an earthquake can the Manila Trench produce?+

Based on its history and mapped length (~600 km), the Manila Trench is considered capable of earthquakes up to about magnitude 7.6. Its last major event was the 1934 Manila Trench Earthquake.

When did the Manila Trench last produce a major earthquake?+

The last major event associated with the Manila Trench was the 1934 Manila Trench Earthquake.

Which areas does the Manila Trench affect?+

The Manila Trench crosses or borders 9 provinces: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Zambales, Bataan, Cavite, Batangas, Mindoro.