Powerful 7.5 Earthquake Hits Papua New Guinea, Tsunami Alert Issued

7.5 earthquake, 45km North East of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea on May 14, 2019.

Photographer: U.S. Geological Survey
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Wellington, New Zealand (AP) -- A powerful earthquake rattled coastal townships in Papua New Guinea late Tuesday and authorities say there have been no initial reports of major damage or injuries.

The magnitude 7.5 quake struck in the ocean about 45 kilometers (28 miles) northeast of Kokopo, a town with a population of about 26,000, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It was followed by several large aftershocks.