Papua New Guinea: No major damages reported after 7.0-magnitude earthquake October 11 /update 1

Event

There have been no immediate reports of significant damages or casualties as a result of the 7.0-magnitude earthquake and subsequent aftershocks that struck New Britain on Thursday, October 11. The initial 7.0 quake occurred shortly before 07:00 (local time) and was centered some 117 km (72 mi) east of Kimbe. Two more tremors with magnitudes of 5.9 and one quake with a 6.2 magnitude followed in the same region. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) did not issue a tsunami warning. Further aftershocks remain possible in the coming hours.

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.