Lae city residents left terrified after earthquake

Residents of Lae were left frightened last night after a powerful 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck about 26 kilometers west of the city at 9:05pm.

According to the Port Moresby Geophysical Observatory [POMGO], the quake was recorded at 146.77 degrees East and 6.78 degrees South, with a depth of 99 kilometers. It was caused by the interaction between the Solomon Sea Plate and the Australian Plate and is described as being of tectonic origin.

The strong tremor was felt widely across the country, reaching as far as Goroka, Popondetta, Madang, Kimbe, Mt Hagen, and Port Moresby.

Several residents who spoke to NBC News said the quake brought back memories of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck on September 11, 2022, which caused widespread fear and damage.

POMGO said the earthquake occurred on land, west of Lae, with a shaking intensity of around 6. The observatory has since ruled out the possibility of a tsunami, saying the potential for a direct earthquake-triggered tsunami is unlikely.

As of this morning, no aftershocks have been reported, and there are no confirmed reports of damage.

However, the National Disaster Centre says it is working with the Morobe Provincial Disaster Centre to assess areas near the epicenter today and will provide updates once information becomes available.