A strong earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale has rocked Papua New Guinea. The epicenter, coordinates 5.8 N and 151.8 E, has been located 63 kilometers under the Coast of New Britain Island. The depth of the earthquake was recorded at 10 km and it struck the region at about 07:14 hours (IST). A tsunami warning has been issued for an area within 300 km of the epicenter. This also includes the Australian coast.
A moderate aftershock of 5.9 magnitude was also felt in the region just 10 minutes later. Two more aftershocks were registered, measuring 5.6 and 5.2 on the Richter scale. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued a warning right after the first tremor. Authorities have warned that hazardous tsunami waves are likely in coastal areas located about 300 km from the epicenter.
Locals on social media said that buildings swayed but no noticeable damage had taken place. PTWC, in its latest declaration, said that waves measuring about 0.3 to 1 meter above tidal level were expected on some coasts in Papa New Guinea.
The region has been witnessing quakes in the first week of May. According to Skymet Meteorology Division in India, high intensity earthquakes usually don't strike a region at such short intervals.
(Featured Image Credits: guardianlv.com)
