Powerful earthquake hits Bougainville, one killed and properties damaged

Earthquake hits Bougaiville. 

A powerful earthquake measuring upto 7.3 and 7.1 on the Richter scale has struck the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

A four year old child from Piano, Buin South Bougainville, died when a house fell on top of him.

He was brought to Buin Health Centre and was confirmed death.

At least, one death, several houses and properties were destroyed in the huge earthquake.

Buin, in South Bougainville with a population of over 400 thousand, was the most affected area.

Joseph Maineke, who gives us an update, says the shake was violent.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the tremor was located 52 km south west of Panguna and 54 km deep in the ocean.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said a destructive widespread tsunami wasn’t expected but waves could be generated along the coasts.

The National Disaster Office Acting Director Martin Mose confirmed receiving the alert messages.

Investigations will be conducted first, before any immediate responses will be made. 

PNG Today/EMTV