01 Oct 2024 | 02:08 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in the Solomon Sea near East New Britain Province Oct. 1
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs near East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, at 11:33 Oct. 1. No reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred near in the Solomon Sea, near East New Britain Province, at around 11:33 Oct. 1. The epicenter was about 85 km (53 miles) south-southeast of Kokopo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 35 km (22 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout East New Britain, eastern West New Britain, southern and central New Ireland, and far northwestern Bougainville provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties, and 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, 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.
