The midnight killer | Moro Gulf Tsunami

Summary

On August 17, 1976, the Philippines experienced one of its most devastating natural disasters: the Moro Gulf tsunami. Triggered by a magnitude 8.0 earthquake near Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, Mindanao, the quake toppled cities and communities. Five minutes later, waves up to 9 meters high slammed into the coast, claiming an estimated 8,000 lives. This tragic event, dubbed 'The Midnight Killer,' is a stark reminder of nature's power and the resilience of the human spirit.

Takeaways

• 🗓️ On August 17, 1976, a catastrophic event occurred: the Moro Gulf tsunami.
• 📍 The event took place in the Philippines, specifically on the island of Moro Gulf in Mindanao.
• ⏰ The earthquake struck at 12:11 AM, marking the strongest earthquake in Philippine history.
• 🔍 The earthquake's epicenter was in the town of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.
• 🏠 The magnitude 8.0 quake caused massive destruction, toppling cities, communities, and houses near the coast of Mindanao.
• 🌊 Five minutes post-quake, tsunami waves rose approximately 9 meters high, impacting the Gulf of Moro.
• 🏙️ Cotabato and Kabisayasan were among the towns severely affected by the disaster.
• 💔 The tragic event resulted in an estimated 8,000 fatalities, including those missing and unidentified.
• 🕯️ The disaster is historically referred to as 'The Midnight Killer', a grim reminder of nature's power.
• 📜 The script serves as a historical account, ensuring that the memory of the victims is preserved and honored.

Q & A

When did the Moro Gulf tsunami occur?

The Moro Gulf tsunami occurred on August 17, 1976.

In which country was the Moro Gulf tsunami recorded?

The Moro Gulf tsunami was recorded in the Philippines.

On which island did the Moro Gulf tsunami take place?

The Moro Gulf tsunami took place on the island of Moro Gulf in Mindanao.

What was the time of the strongest earthquake in Philippine history on August 17, 1976?

The strongest earthquake in Philippine history hit at around 12:11 in the morning.

What was the magnitude of the earthquake that struck Lebak, Sultan Kudarat?

The earthquake had a magnitude of 8.0.

Which towns were particularly affected by the earthquake and tsunami?

The towns of Cotabato and Kabisayasan were particularly affected by the earthquake and tsunami.

How long after the earthquake did the tsunami waves rise?

The tsunami waves rose approximately five minutes after the earthquake.

How high did the tsunami waves reach?

The tsunami waves reached about 9 meters high, which is as high as a three-story building.

How many people were estimated to have been killed in the Moro Gulf tsunami?

An estimated 8,000 people were killed in the Moro Gulf tsunami, including those missing and unrecognized.

What is the nickname given to the Moro Gulf tsunami?

The Moro Gulf tsunami is referred to as 'The Midnight Killer'.

What is the significance of remembering the victims of the Moro Gulf tsunami?

Remembering the victims of the Moro Gulf tsunami serves as a reminder of the tragic event and honors those who lost their lives.