PNG: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in East Sepik Province Sept. 24

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in central East Sepik Province at around 20:58 Sept. 24. The epicenter was about 37 km (23 miles) east-southeast of Ambunti, East Sepik Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 84 km (52 miles), and light-to-weak shaking was probably felt throughout much of the Momase and Highlands regions. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light 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.