A powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck northern Papua New Guinea on Sunday, resulting in at least five fatalities and the destruction of over 1,000 residences. Defense Minister Billy Joseph, concurrently overseeing disaster response, has mobilized defense force assets, including vehicles, to aid those impacted, reports The National newspaper.
The government continues to evaluate the quake’s toll on East Sepik province, where over 433,000 residents are facing the aftermath. Joseph advised against sea travel by small boats, urging the public to remain cautious and calm.
The quake originated near Ambunti, with continuous aftershocks affecting not only Papua New Guinea but also Indonesia and the Solomon Islands. Situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the region is prone to frequent seismic activities, evidenced by a 7.6 magnitude quake in September 2022 that claimed 21 lives.–Web Desk