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A powerful earthquake has rattled Papua New Guinea and officials are warning a tsunami is possible.
There was no tsunami threat to New Zealand following the earthquake.
The 7.4-magnitude quake struck about 140km south of the town of Kokopo in northeastern Papua New Guinea, at a depth of 10km, the US Geological Survey reported on Tuesday.
Another 5.9 earthquake followed at 1.54, USGS reports.
The aftershock hit 109km southwest of Kokopo, at a depth of 65km.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said hazardous tsunami waves were possible within 300km of the epicentre.
A 7.5-magnitude earthquake is caused by the sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust. This is often due to movement along tectonic plates or faults.
Papua New Guinea is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its high levels of seismic activity and volcanic eruptions. This is because the country sits on the boundary of two major tectonic plates that are constantly moving and causing earthquakes.
A 7.5-magnitude earthquake can cause widespread damage to buildings, infrastructure, and natural landscapes. It can also trigger landslides, tsunamis, and other secondary hazards that can further impact the environment.
There are several measures that can be taken to mitigate the effects of a 7.5-magnitude earthquake. These include enforcing building codes and constructing earthquake-resistant structures, implementing early warning systems, and educating the public on earthquake preparedness and response.
Yes, there are ongoing efforts to monitor and predict earthquakes in Papua New Guinea. The country has a seismic network that monitors earthquake activity and provides real-time data to scientists. Additionally, there are international organizations and collaborations that work to improve earthquake prediction and preparedness in the region.