16 Jul 2023 | 04:48 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs between Umboi Island and New Britain at around 02:14 July 17
Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs west of New Britain, Papua New Guinea, at around 02:14 July 17. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurred between Papua New Guinea's Umboi Island and New Britain at around 02:14 July 17. The epicenter was about 99 km (62 miles) north-northeast of Finschhafen, Papua New Guinea. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 136 km (85 miles), and light shaking may have been felt in areas near the epicenter. 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, 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.
