15 May 2019 | 08:01 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Minor damage reported from May 14 7.5-earthquake /update 3
Authorities report minor damage from a 7.5-magnitude earthquake and aftershocks near New Britain on May 14; further aftershocks and associated damage possible in coming days
Event
Authorities reported minor damage on Wednesday, May 15, following a 7.5-magnitude earthquake that hit New Britain Tuesday evening (local time), May 14, though no injuries have been reported as of 17:00. Some power outages were reported in Kokopo (East New Britain province) and the surrounding areas. The earthquake also triggered a small tsunami. Further details are still emerging, and reports of more serious damage may arise in the coming days as response teams are deployed into more remote areas. Several aftershocks of magnitudes 4.7 and 5.0 were recorded in the area and additional aftershocks are possible in the coming days.
Context
A 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit 45 km (27 mi) northeast of Kokopo (East New Britain province) at 22:58 (local time) on May 14 at a depth of 10 km (6 mi).
Advice
Individuals in New Britain are advised to monitor the situation, prepare for aftershocks, anticipate power and telecommunication disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), move away from windows, and not attempt to leave a building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.
