Strong earthquake strikes off Papua New Guinea
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, April 19, was located 47 miles southwest of the town of Panguna on Bougainville Island. It struck at a depth of 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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