30 Dec 2023 | 03:58 PM UTC
PNG: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs near Bougainville Island at around 02:03 Dec. 31
Magnitude-5.2 earthquake occurs near Bougainville Island, Papua New Guinea, at 02:03 Dec. 31. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred near Bougainville Island at around 02:03 Dec. 31. The epicenter was about 66 km (41 miles) west-southwest of Panguna, Papua New Guinea. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 93 km (58 miles), and light shaking may have been felt in parts of Bougainville Region. 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.
