Strong Earthquake Strikes Off Papua New Guinea, Tsunami Warning Issued
SYDNEY -- A powerful earthquake has struck off the South Pacific nation of Papua New Guinea. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage, but a tsunami warning was in effect.
The U.S. Geological Survey said the magnitude-7.5 earthquake that struck late Saturday was located 75 kilometers (47 miles) southwest of the town of Panguna on Bougainville Island. It struck at a depth of 31 kilometers (19 miles).
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a warning for Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, but said it was not known whether a tsunami had been generated.
Earthquakes are common in Papua New Guinea. The country lies on the "Ring of Fire" — an arc of earthquake and volcanic activity that stretches around the Pacific Rim.
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