M5.3 Earthquake 174 km ESE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea — April 13, 2026
2026-04-13 02:56:01 UTC (6 days ago)
Aftershock of the M5.4 mainshock.
On April 13, 2026 at 02:56 UTC, a magnitude 5.3 shallow crustal earthquake struck 174 km ESE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea, at a depth of 68.0 km and coordinates -5.1908°, 153.5930°. This earthquake was detected by 59 seismic stations with good location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 432, placing it among routine seismic activity.
This earthquake is part of an ongoing aftershock sequence following the magnitude 5.4 mainshock that occurred 21 days ago 197 km SE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea. Since the mainshock, the USGS has recorded 0 aftershocks in this area. Aftershock activity is expected to continue for days to weeks as stresses on surrounding faults redistribute.
The epicenter is located in Papua New Guinea, a region characterized by the collision and subduction of the Pacific, Australian, and Solomon Sea plates. View all earthquakes in Papua New Guinea.
Learn more: Magnitude scale · Aftershock sequences
Earthquake Details
153.5930°E
Technical Information
Nearby Earthquakes (Last 7 Days)
Common Questions
How strong was the magnitude 5.3 earthquake near Kokopo, Papua New Guinea?
The magnitude 5.3 earthquake that struck 174 km ESE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea on April 13, 2026 at 02:56 UTC had a depth of 68.0 km. For context, this was a moderate earthquake that could be widely felt.
Where did the earthquake occur?
The earthquake epicenter was located at -5.1908°, 153.5930°, which is 174 km ESE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea. View all earthquakes in Papua New Guinea.
Were there aftershocks?
Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 5.3 earthquakes can continue for days to weeks and gradually diminish over time.
Is this the same earthquake as the M5.4 one earlier?
No. This magnitude 5.3 earthquake is an aftershock of the larger magnitude 5.4 mainshock that occurred earlier 197 km SE of Kokopo, Papua New Guinea. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes triggered by stress changes from the mainshock.
Has Papua New Guinea had earthquakes this big before?
The largest recorded earthquake in Papua New Guinea was the M8.0 New Britain earthquake of July 18, 1971. Today's magnitude 5.3 event is significantly smaller than that historical record.
What should I do after an earthquake?
If you were in the affected area: check yourself and others for injuries, inspect your home for damage, and be prepared for aftershocks. For detailed guidance, see our earthquake safety guide and emergency planning resources.