A 5.7 magnitude quake occurred near Lorengau on Friday evening, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

The tremor, which struck the area at 10:08 UTC (20:08 local time), was centered approximately 112 km south-southeast of Lorengau. It occurred at a depth of 10 km.

Did you feel it?

Those who experienced the earthquake are encouraged to report it via the USGS Felt Report form.

Impact and estimated losses

The USGS categorized this as a Green Alert, which means there is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses.

Structure information summary
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are a mix of vulnerable and earthquake resistant construction. The predominant vulnerable building types are informal (metal, timber, GI etc.) and unreinforced brick masonry construction.

Nearby region rattled by two tremors over the week

In the past week, the area has experienced two quakes greater than magnitude 2.5, both centered in the same region. The larger, a 5.0 magnitude event, was recorded on May 17, while the other, at magnitude 4.3, jolted on May 17.

Area struck by 6.3 quake in 1993
The area has experienced significant seismic activity in the past. A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck 35.4 miles northeast of Kainantu in Rai Coast District on Oct. 16, 1993, at a depth of 16.8 miles.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey