17 Nov 2022 | 07:32 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Solomon Sea, near New Ireland Province, at around 16:31 PGT Nov. 17
Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs near New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea, at 16:31 PGT Nov. 17. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Solomon Sea, near New Ireland Province, at around 16:31 PGT Nov. 17. The epicenter was about 192 km (119 miles) east-southeast of Kokopo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 73 km (45 miles), and weak-to-light shaking may have occurred in northeastern and central East New Britain, eastern New Ireland, and Bougainville provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties because 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 possible 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 authorities do not find any damage. 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.
