19 Jul 2023 | 03:53 PM UTC
Indonesia: A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in Papua Province at around 00:18 July 20
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs in Papua Province, Indonesia, at around 00:18 WIT July 20. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurred in southern Papua Province at around 00:18 WIT July 20. The epicenter was about 110 km (68 miles) southwest of Abepura. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 23 km (14 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout much of Papua and Highland Papua and parts of northern South Papua and northeastern Central Papua, Indonesia, and parts of western Sanduan Province, Papua New Guinea. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, 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.
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.
