A powerful earthquake struck Papua New Guinea, prompting and later canceling a tsunami warning.
The 6.9-magnitude quake occurred early Saturday morning, with its epicenter located 194 kilometers east of Kimbe, New Britain, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially warned of potential tsunami waves between one to three meters along parts of Papua New Guinea’s coastline. A smaller advisory was also issued for the Solomon Islands, cautioning about possible waves up to 0.3 meters. Both alerts were subsequently lifted.
Authorities reported no immediate damage or casualties. Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology confirmed there was no tsunami threat to Australia, and New Zealand authorities did not issue any alerts.
Papua New Guinea is situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area known for frequent seismic activity due to tectonic plate movements. Residents are accustomed to such events but remain vigilant for potential aftershocks.
The region has experienced significant earthquakes in the past, including a 7.9-magnitude quake in 2017 near Bougainville Island, which also prompted tsunami warnings.
Seismologists continue to monitor the area for aftershocks and advise residents to stay alert.
