The National Disaster Centre (NDC) and Port Moresby Geophysical Observatory advised the public, particularly residents living along the coastal areas of northern coastline of mainland PNG and New Guinea Islands, to remain alert and vigilant following reports of a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in the Philippines region.
NDC noted that based on information currently available, there is a potential for tsunami waves to be generated by an earthquake of this magnitude.
The NDC and POMGO are closely monitoring the situation in consultation with relevant regional tsunami monitoring centres.
NDC said at this stage, assessments are continuing to determine whether there is any threat to PNG adding that large earthquakes in the Pacific region have the potential to generate tsunami waves that may travel long distances across the ocean.
NDC said that as a precautionary measure, all Provincial Disaster Offices, district administrations, maritime authorities, and coastal communities are advised to remain vigilant for FOUR (4) hours and monitor official updates issued by the NDC and POMGO
The NDC is maintaining close coordination with POMGO and will continue to monitor developments. Additional advisories will be issued should the threat level change.
The public is urged to remain calm, avoid spreading rumours, and rely only on official information from the National Disaster Centre and relevant government agencies.
“The safety and wellbeing of our people remain our highest priority,” NDC said.