10 Mar 2023 | 01:57 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in central Southern Highlands Province at 10:58 PGT March 10
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Southern Highlands, Papua New Guinea, at 10:58 PGT March 10. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in central Southern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea, at around 10:58 PGT March 10. The epicenter was approximately 32 km (20 miles) south-southwest of Mendi. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 12 km (7 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in Highlands, central Southern, and central Momase region. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and 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.
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.
