31 Dec 2024 | 06:09 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Bismarck Sea near East New Britain Province early Jan. 1
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs near East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, at 04:09 Jan. 1 No reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the Bismarck Sea near East New Britain Province at around 04:09 Jan. 1. The epicenter was about 62 km (38 miles) west-northwest of Rabaul. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 8 km (5 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in areas near the epicenter. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; 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.
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.
