6.9 magnitude earthquake strikes Papua New Guinea

According to ABC News, 3 people were killed and 1,000 houses were damaged after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake shook northern Papua New Guinea over the weekend.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) said the earthquake struck in the northern part of the Pacific island nation. The depth of the earthquake was 40.2 km, about 38 km east-northeast of Ambunti town in Ambunti-Dreikikier district, East Sepik province. Several areas in East Sepik province, including Ambunti and Wewak, were severely affected by the earthquake.

Prime Minister James Marape announced 500 million kina ($132 million) in immediate relief. Relevant government agencies are coordinating to implement rescue measures.

Papua New Guinea has been hit by earthquakes, floods and landslides this month due to heavy rains, high tides and other extreme weather events. On March 18, 23 people were killed in three landslides in Chimbu province.

SOUTH