08 Jun 2023 | 08:08 AM UTC
PNG: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs off the south coast of East New Britain Province June 8
Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs off East New Britain Province, PNG, at around 17:32 June 8. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in the Solomon Sea off the south coast of East New Britain Province at around 17:32 June 8. The epicenter was about 149 km (93 miles) south-southwest of Kokopo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout much of East New Britain Province and parts of central and eastern West New Britain and central and southern New Ireland 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. Light 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, 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.
