01 Sep 2023 | 08:36 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in East Sepik Province at around 05:09 Sept. 2
Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, around 05:09 Sept. 2. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in the northeastern part of Papua New Guinea around 05:09 Sept. 2. The epicenter was about 48 km (30 miles) southwest of Angoram. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 116 km (72 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in areas close to 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.
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.
