PNG: A magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurs in East New Britain Province at around 21:48 May 10

A magnitude-5.6 earthquake occurred in East New Britain Province at around 21:48 May 10. The epicenter was about 106 km (66 miles) south-southwest of Kokopo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 37 km (23 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in areas close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout much of East New Britain and parts of eastern West New Britain and southern and central New Ireland provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; some minor damage is possibly in areas close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-moderate 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.