Low likelihood of casualties and economic losses. Deep earthquake (110 km) significantly reduced surface shaking.
Approximately 2,300 people potentially exposed to liquefaction hazard. Ground failure possible in susceptible areas.
| Magnitude | 6.5 Mww |
| Depth | 110.2 km (deep) |
| Location | 5.72°S, 145.50°E |
| Maximum Shaking | Intensity V (Moderate) |
| Felt Reports | 10 reports, maximum CDI 5.7 |
| Tsunami Risk | None |
| Landslide Risk | Green (low probability) |
Goroka is the capital of Eastern Highlands Province, population approximately 30,000. The town sits in a fertile highland valley at 1,600 meters elevation. Coffee is the primary export crop.
Papua New Guinea sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire where the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates collide. The country experiences frequent seismic activity — this region has had 12 M5.0+ earthquakes in the past year.
The depth of this earthquake (110 km) places it in the subducting slab, which explains why surface shaking was relatively moderate despite the significant magnitude. Deeper earthquakes generally cause less damage because seismic waves attenuate as they travel upward.
For those in the region: If you felt shaking, you can report it at the USGS "Did You Feel It?" page. Check structures for damage, especially in areas with loose or saturated soils where liquefaction risk is elevated.
Aftershocks: Possible but less likely for deep earthquakes. Any aftershocks would likely occur at similar depths.