Papua New Guinea: 7.0-magnitude earthquake hits New Britain October 11

Event

A 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck New Britain, some 117 km (72 mi) east of Kimbe, on the morning (local time) of Thursday, October 11. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) has not issued a tsunami warning. Details regarding casualties and material damages are still emerging.

Context

Papua New Guinea lies within the active seismic zone known as "the Pacific Ring of Fire."

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Individuals elsewhere in Papua New Guinea are advised to defer all travel to the affected area until further notice.

During an earthquake, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and do not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.