07 Aug 2022 | 04:42 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurs in the Bismarck Sea at 13:53 Aug. 7
Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs offshore of Madang, Papua New Guinea, at 13:53 Aug. 7. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Bismarck Sea in the Vitiaz Strait at 13:53 Aug. 7. The epicenter was about 125 km (78 miles) east of Madang. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 220 km (137 miles), and light shaking probably occurred in far western New Britain Island and northern Papua New Guinea. 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.
