16 Aug 2022 | 06:32 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in northern Morobe Province at around 03:25 PGT Aug. 17
Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea, at around 03:25 PGT Aug. 17. No initial reports of damage, injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in northern Morobe Province at around 03:25 PGT Aug. 17. The epicenter was about 91 km (56 mi) east-northeast of Kainantu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 53 km (32 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt in parts of Morobe, Madang, and Eastern Highlands provinces. 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.
