A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on Saturday, leading to a tsunami warning being issued. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially stated that based on the magnitude and location, it expected tsunami waves to hit the southern Philippines, as well as parts of Indonesia, Palau, and Malaysia. However, the center later dropped its warning.

The quake occurred at 10:37 p.m. local time and was measured at a depth of 20 miles. There were no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties. The Philippines experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region known for seismic activity.

Authorities in Japan also issued evacuation orders in various parts of Okinawa Prefecture, affecting thousands of people. In the Philippines, residents along the coast of southern Surigao del Sur and Davao Oriental provinces were advised to evacuate immediately to higher ground.

The U.S. State Department is aware of the earthquake and is working with local authorities to determine if any U.S. citizens were affected. The department encourages those in affected areas to contact their loved ones directly and update their status on social media.

In the aftermath of the earthquake, minor sea level fluctuations may occur in some coastal areas, but the tsunami threat has passed.