The Port Moresby Geophysical Observatory (PMGO) says the earthquake, which occurred about 40km South-West of Pomio, was a result of interaction between the South Bismarck and Solomon Plates.
“The earthquake was felt in Rabaul but no damage from this earthquake has been reported, however, communications in the Pomio area are challenging,” said the PMGO.
“Based on the available data, it is unlikely that this earthquake would have generated a tsunami.