14 Mar 2023 | 01:28 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-6.3 earthquake occurs in near Madang Province at 10:49 PGT March 14
Magnitude-6.3 earthquake occurs near Madang Province, Papua New Guinea, at 10:49 PGT March 14. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-6.3 offshore earthquake occurred near Madang Province, Papua New Guinea, at around 10:49 PGT March 14. The epicenter was approximately 118 km (73 miles) east-southeast of Madang. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 222 km (138 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in Morobe, Madang, Eastern Highlands, and Chimbu provinces. 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. 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, 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.
