Shallow M5.6 earthquake hits East New Britain, Papua New Guinea

A shallow M5.6 earthquake was recorded at 14:08 UTC on September 26, 2026, approximately 74 km (46 miles) east-southeast of Kokopo, East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. The earthquake had a depth of 57.8 km (35.9 miles), based on data from the USGS.

The epicenter was located at coordinates 152.8°E, 4.7°S, placing it in the proximity of the eastern portion of New Britain Island, an area known for frequent seismic activity. Kokopo is the nearest significant urban center.

Due to the island’s geography, critical infrastructure potentially present in the region includes ports, small airports, and roadways serving the local population and nearby communities.

There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.

USGS issued a green alert for this event, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or damage. The maximum estimated intensity was IV. The significance index is 482 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

Papua New Guinea is located along the complex boundary between the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates. The region is recognized for frequent moderate to strong earthquakes and high seismic risks due to active subduction and fault zones.

This information was last updated at 14:31 UTC on September 26, 2026.