Magnitude 6 aftershock rattles Highlands region

A magnitude 6 aftershock has again shaken the Highlands region this afternoon.

Emanating closer to Porgera, Enga Province, the quake was picked up by the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory’s Manam station in Madang Province.

An official from the RVO told Loop PNG that aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that occur after a previous main earthquake.

“The tectonic plate is just settling back into its position,” explained the RVO.

“Our Manam station picked it up because it was of a larger magnitude.

“Based on experience, aftershocks will continue for at least 5 days.”

The RVO likened aftershocks to the release of a stretched rubber band.

“It’s like that when the ground (rocks) is stretched and under stress. When a crack occurs – bang! And after that, stress is released and everything tries to go back to their original position.”

In spite of their low intensity, aftershocks can be stressful for locals who are struggling to cope with damages, injuries and loss of life.

 

Author: 
Carmella Gware