- 6.9 magnitude quake strikes 194 km east of Kimbe
- 1-3 meter tsunami waves predicted for coastal regions
- Solomon Islands may experience minor tidal fluctuations
- Warning center urges immediate coastal evacuation
A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck the Pacific Ocean near West New Britain Province early Saturday morning. Seismologists at the U.S. Geological Survey recorded the epicenter approximately 194 kilometers (120 miles) east of Kimbe, triggering immediate tsunami alerts across the region.
The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center issued urgent advisories for coastal communities within 300 km of the epicenter. Emergency management officials are coordinating evacuation procedures for low-lying areas as computer models predict wave heights exceeding 2 meters in vulnerable locations.
This seismic event marks the fourth major earthquake in the Bismarck Sea region since 2020, highlighting the area's position along the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire. Geological experts note that the region experiences approximately 15% of global seismic activity due to complex tectonic plate interactions.
Local authorities have activated emergency response protocols learned from the devastating 2018 Papua New Guinea earthquake that claimed 150 lives. Improved early warning systems now provide coastal residents with 45-minute advance alerts compared to the 12-minute window available six years ago.
Meteorological agencies are monitoring tidal gauges around the Solomon Islands, where wave heights remain below 30 centimeters. However, marine safety officials warn that sudden currents could endanger small vessels and coastal infrastructure.
Regional aviation authorities have issued NOTAM alerts for seaplane operations, while cruise lines are rerouting ships away from the affected area. The National Disaster Center reports temporary telecommunications outages in three remote villages, with emergency teams en route to assess damage.
International aid organizations emphasize three critical safety measures for coastal residents: (1) Move to elevated ground immediately, (2) Avoid tsunami debris fields, and (3) Monitor official channels for all-clear notifications. The situation remains fluid as aftershocks continue to rattle the region.
