26 Mar 2018 | 10:42 AM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Major earthquake strikes West New Britain March 26
6.6 magnitude earthquake strikes West New Britain March 26 at 19:51 (local time); no tsunami warning
Event
An offshore earthquake with a magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter scale struck 139 km (86 mi) from Kimbe, West New Britain, on Monday, March 26, at 19:51 (local time). No tsunami warning has been issued. On March 24, a 6.3-magnitude earthquake also struck off the northeastern coast. The tremor, whose epicenter was located 180 km (112 mi) southwest of Rabaul (New Britain island) and 900 km (560 mi) northeast of the capital Port Moresby, posed no tsunami threat.
Context
Earthquakes are frequent in Papua New Guinea, which sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a hotspot for seismic activity. On February 26, a 7.5-magnitude tremor rocked the country's mountainous mainland highlands, killing 100.
Advice
Individuals in affected regions are advised to be prepared for aftershocks and to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Generally speaking, after a powerful earthquake, check for damages and take note of your surroundings. If indoors, shut off water, gas, and electricity lines and evacuate the building.
