Port Moresby, April 5, 2025 – A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Papua New Guinea early Saturday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Although a tsunami warning was initially issued, authorities later withdrew it after further assessment.
Strong Quake Jolts New Britain Island
The quake occurred at 6:04 AM local time (7:04 AM AEDT) near the southern coast of New Britain Island, approximately 194 kilometers southeast of the town of Kimbe. The USGS reported the depth of the earthquake at 10 kilometers below the Earth’s surface, indicating a shallow and potentially more damaging event.
Residents across the region, including the capital Port Moresby—located about 620 kilometers from the epicenter—felt the tremors. The eastern capital of the New Britain province, Kokopo, also reported significant shaking.
Series of Aftershocks Follow
Shortly after the initial quake, the region experienced a series of smaller aftershocks, including ones measured at magnitudes 4.9 and 5.3. While no significant structural damage or casualties were immediately reported, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely due to the dense population on New Britain Island, which is home to more than 500,000 people.
Tsunami Warning Withdrawn
The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center had issued a tsunami alert following the quake but later withdrew it after analysis showed no imminent threat of a significant wave. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology also confirmed that there was no tsunami danger to Australia.
Seismically Active Region
Papua New Guinea is situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity. Its location near Indonesia places it at high risk for earthquakes and tsunamis, making early warning systems and swift emergency responses crucial.
Residents are advised to stay alert and follow any updates from local authorities as aftershocks may continue in the coming days.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
