7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Near Papua New Guinea

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck off the coast of Papua New Guinea Friday morning.

The U.S. geological survey placed the epicenter 35 miles southwest of the town of Panguna on Bougainville Island.

Initial reports put the quake’s magnitude at 7.3, but the USGS later downgraded its severity to 7.1. There have not been serious injuries or damage reported as a result of the quake.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center recorded both quakes but has not issued tsunami watches or warnings for any Pacific regions. Read more...