12 Mar 2023 | 10:13 PM UTC
Solomon Islands: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Coral Sea at around 07:56 SBT March 13
Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in Coral Sea east of Lata, Solomon Islands, at 07:56 SBT March 13. No immediate reports of damage, injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the Coral Sea at around 07:56 SBT March 13. The epicenter was approximately 104 km (65 miles) east of Lata, Solomon Islands. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 9 km (6 miles), and weak-to-light shaking may have been felt in parts of the Solomon Islands' Santa Cruz Islands. 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.
