24 Oct 2024 | 07:51 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs near New Britain at around 04:52 Oct. 25
Magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurs near New Britain, Papua New Guinea, at 04:52 Oct. 25. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.2 offshore earthquake occurred near New Britain at around 04:52 Oct. 25. The epicenter was about 77 km (48 miles) south of Kokopo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 57 km (35 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of New Britain and New Ireland. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; 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 where shaking occurred.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.