Papua New Guinea: Earthquake - Feb 1987

A series of small tremors preceded a severe earthquake (7.4 richter scale) at 04.34 hours on 9 February 1987 which affected Umboi and outlying islands in Vitiaz strait, as well as outer reaches Morobe and west New Britain provinces. The epicentre was under Umboi Island, about 440 km northeast of Port Moresby. A few deaths/injuries have been reported so far. 12,000 people were affected on Umboi Island and several thousand on outlying islands. (UN DHA, 10 Feb 1987)

Morobe provincial government has declared Unboi Island a disaster area. Further tremors were reported from Semo (Siassi district) on 12 February. The homeless was estimated at 2,500 (500 families). Additional damage was reported to buildings and roads. The Government requested emergency assistance from Australia (jerrycans and tents/tarpaulins). (UN DHA, 13 Feb 1987)