ReliefWeb

A major aftershock with a magnitude of 6.2 M at a depth of 14 km occurred in the Southern Highlands province (Papua New Guinea) at 15.17 UTC on 26 February, close to the location, approximately 65 km south-east, of the 7.5 M earthquake of 25 February and 56 km south-west of Mendi city (Southern Highlands province). USGS PAGER indicated a shaking up to "Strong" for 33 000 people.

GDACS issued an orange alert for the 6.2 M earthquake for potential humanitarian consequences 15 minutes after the event.

Copernicus EMS was activated after the 7.5 M earthquake and five references maps were produced as of 27 February early morning UTC.

According to media, as of 27 February, at least 30 people have been killed and 300 have been injured, several houses have been buried due to landslides and some airports suffered some level of damage in the worst affected areas of Hela and Southern Highlands provinces. They also reported, as of the same date, that search and rescue operations are still ongoing and the death toll is expected to rise. Mine and gas-oil facilities, as well as the pipeline network of the region, suffered several landslides and they have also reported buildings damages on-site.

At this stage, based on the received information there is no substantial humanitarian situation that would require external support. For the time being local authorities have not request international support.