24 Dec 2021 | 10:25 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Western Province at around 07:34 PGT Dec. 25
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Western Province, Papua New Guinea, around 07:34 PGT Dec. 25. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in Papua New Guinea's Western Province at around 07:34 PGT Dec. 25. The epicenter was about 66 km (41 miles) west of Tari, Papua New Guinea. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking may have been felt in parts of western Papua New Guinea near the epicenter. 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.
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.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
