22 Dec 2023 | 06:42 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in South Pacific Ocean at around 03:43 Dec. 23
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs near eastern Papua New Guinea at around 03:43 Dec. 23. No immediate reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean, near eastern Papua New Guinea, at around 03:43 Dec. 23. The epicenter was approximately 153 km (95 miles) east of Kokopo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 114 km (71 miles), and weak shaking was probably felt in parts of northeastern 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 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 where shaking occurred.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
