14 May 2019 | 01:37 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea/Solomon Islands: Tsunami alert issued after 7.7-earthquake hits Kokopo May 14 /update 1
Tsunami waves possible for coasts of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands after 7.7-magnitude earthquake hits East New Britain (Papua New Guinea) May 14
Event
The US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) has issued a Tsunami Threat Message alerting to possible hazardous tsunami waves for coasts located within 1000 km (621 mi) of the earthquake epicenter. This alert is active for the coasts of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The alert follows a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck off East New Britain province in Papua New Guinea on Tuesday evening (local time), May 14.
Further aftershocks and associated damages are possible in the coming hours and days.
Context
A 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit 28 km (17 mi) northeast of Kokopo (East New Britain province) on May 14.
Advice
Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to evacuate coastal and low-lying areas immediately.
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), to move away from windows, and to not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.
