27 May 2024 | 02:18 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs just south of Bougainville Province at around 12:51 May 27
Magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in south of Bougainville Province, PNG, at 12:51 May 27. No initial reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurred just south of Bougainville Province, Papua New Guinea, at around 12:51 May 27. The epicenter was about 79 km (49 miles) south of Panguna. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 35 km (22 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in Bougainville Province in Papua New Guinea and far western Solomon Islands. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
