According to the reports, an earthquake occurred in the Papua New Guinea Region on Monday (22 December). The United States Geological Survey (USGS) initially reported a magnitude of 5.5, while local authorities reported a magnitude of 5.6. The earthquake was located 42 kilometer (km) North-Northeast of Goroka, Papua New Guinea, at a depth of approximately 107 km. The magnitude is likely to be revised as final readings are confirmed.

The earthquake occurred at coordinates 5.720 degrees South, 145.496 degrees East. Seismic monitoring continues, and aftershocks are expected in nearby areas.