09 Oct 2022 | 10:19 PM UTC
Papua New Guinea: A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs near coastal East Sepik Province around 08:10 Oct. 10
Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in coastal East Sepik, Papua New Guinea, at 08:10 Oct. 10. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in coastal East Sepik Province around 08:10 Oct. 10. The epicenter was about 37 km (23 miles) north-northeast of Ambunti. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking may have occurred in East Sepik, surrounding provinces, and Kerrom Regency in Indonesia. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties because of the earthquake. 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. Disruptions could occur, especially if landslides occur along main roads. 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.
