A Magnitude 5.9 earthquake has struck 43km East of Madang according to the US Geological Survey. The earth tremor occurred at 10:06 UTC (8:06pm PNG local time) measured at a depth of 10km.
A tsunami advisory has been given out, however, it does not indicate if a tsunami actually did or will exist. It is however, advisable for coastal communities to take note of sea level changes during this time.
The earthquake was felt as far as Bulolo in Morobe Province.
There have been earthquakes of magnitude 3.0 or greater that has occurred nearby in the area. Earthquakes 5.0 to 6.0 may cause light damage to buildings and other structures.