01 Jan 2023 | 04:08 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in Solomon Sea, near Bougainville Island at 14:16 PGT Jan. 1
Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurs near Bougainville Island, Papua New Guinea, at 14:16 PGT Jan. 1. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Solomon Sea near Bougainville Island, at around 14:16 PGT Jan. 1. The epicenter was about 50 km (31 mi) southwest of Panguna. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 49 km (30 miles), and light shaking may have occurred on the island and throughout the Western Province, Solomon Islands. 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. Light 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 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.
