16 Sep 2022 | 05:13 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs in Bismarck Sea at around 02:18 PGT Sept. 17
Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs near northeastern Papua New Guinea at around 02:18 PGT Sept. 17. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in the Bismarck Sea, near northeastern Papua New Guinea, at around 02:18 PGT Sept. 17. The epicenter was about 128 km (79 miles) north-northeast of Finschhafen, Papua New Guinea. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 18 km (11 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in West New Britain Province as well as eastern Morobe and eastern Madang provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. 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.
