A 5.5 magnitude quake hit close to Madang on Sunday evening, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The tremor struck at 10:59 UTC (20:59 local time), with its epicenter approximately 118 km east-southeast of Madang and a depth of 137 km. Seismologists first reported it as a 5.3 event, but later upgraded it to 5.5.

Did you feel it?

If you experienced the earthquake, you can share your observations using 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.

Last week’s tremor

Another magnitude 4.7 tremor was detected in the region, with the event also close to Madang prior to this quake.

Area struck by 6.3 quake in 1993
Strong earthquakes have struck the area before. On Oct. 16, 1993, a magnitude 6.3 tremor struck northeast of Kainantu in Rai Coast District, at a depth of 16.8 miles.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey