10 Feb 2023 | 09:03 PM UTC
Solomon Sea: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs southeast of New Ireland at around 06:16 PGT Feb. 11
Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in Solomon Sea near New Ireland, PNG, at 06:16 PGT Feb. 11. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in the Solomon Sea to the southeast of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea, at around 06:16 PGT Feb. 11. The epicenter was about 157 km (97 miles) southeast of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 38 km (23 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of New Ireland, New Britain, and Bougainville Island. 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 where shaking occurred.
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.
