01 Aug 2022 | 02:26 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs in the Bismarck Sea at 11:43 Aug. 1
Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs offshore of East New Britain, Papua New Guinea, at 11:43 Aug. 1. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in the Bismarck Sea, between New Britain and New Ireland islands at 11:43 Aug. 1. The epicenter was about 97 km (60 miles) west-northwest of Rabaul, East New Britain Province, and 150 km (94 miles) south-southeast of Kavieng, New Ireland Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking probably occurred in eastern New Britain Island and New Ireland Province. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties because of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
