The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) has issued a tsunami advisory for Sabah following a strong earthquake that hit Mindanao in the Philippines earlier today.
In a statement, MET Malaysia stated that waves as high as 0.4 metres are expected to hit the coastal areas of Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, and Lahad Datu between 10:30 AM and 12 PM today. The department advises residents in these coastal areas to stay away from the beach and strictly follow instructions from local authorities.
Earthquake details and tremors
At 7:37 AM, a strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.9 and a depth of 50 km was detected in Mindanao, Philippines. The earthquake was centred at latitude 5.7° North and longitude 125.1° East.
Tremors were also felt in several areas around Tawau and Semporna, Sabah.
Activation of early warning sirens
MET Malaysia added,
“Based on MET Malaysia’s analysis, a tsunami as high as 0.4 metres is expected to hit the coastal areas of Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, and Lahad Datu between 10:30 AM and 12 PM, 8 June 2026. Tsunami advisory sirens have been activated at four locations, Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, and Lahad Datu, as a preparedness measure and early warning for residents in the affected areas.”
The department further urged all residents in the affected areas to give their full cooperation and immediately comply with all evacuation or safety instructions issued by local authorities to prevent any untoward incidents.
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Also read: Why Malaysia is NOT Completely Safe from Earthquakes & What the Govt is Doing About It
