15 Dec 2022 | 04:35 PM UTC
PNG: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in northern Sandaun Province at around 01:44 PGT Dec. 16
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Sandaun Province, Papua New Guinea, at 01:44 PGT Dec. 16. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in northern Sandaun Province, Papua New Guinea, at around 01:44 PGT Dec. 16. The epicenter was about 7 km (5 miles) west of Aitape. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 37 km (23 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout much of Sandaun and East Sepik provinces in Papua New Guinea, as well as parts of eastern Papua Province in Indonesia. 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. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.
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.
