PNG: Magnitude-6.2 offshore earthquake occurs off the coast of East Sepik Province at around 11:03  Sept. 5

A magnitude-6.2 earthquake occurred in the Bismarck Sea at around 11:03  Sept. 5. The epicenter was about 66 km (41 miles) north-northeast of Angoram, East Sepik Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate-to-strong shaking was probably felt near the epicenter in northern East Sepik Province, as well as light shaking throughout the rest of East Sepik, far northeastern Sandaun, western and central Madang, northern and central Enga, northern Western Highlands, and northern Jiwaka provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; however, significant damage is possible. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate-to-light 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.