21 May 2023 | 07:55 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs off eastern Morobe Province at around 04:53 PGT May 22
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs off eastern Papua New Guinea at around 04:53 PGT May 22. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred off Papua New Guinea's Morobe Province at around 04:53 PGT May 22. The epicenter was approximately 99 km (61 miles) northeast of Lae. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 62 km (38 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout eastern Papua New Guinea. 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 temblor did not prompt any tsunami warnings.
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.
