A 6.6-magnitude earthquake struck Papua New Guinea on November 15, 2024, centered in Kokopo at a depth of 51.9 kilometers. The earthquake followed other significant seismic events, including a 5.0-magnitude quake in Mexico and a 4.2-magnitude quake in Australia. This series of earthquakes reflects a pattern of increased geological activity worldwide as noted by the USGS.
On November 15, 2024, a significant seismic event was recorded in Papua New Guinea, where a 6.6-magnitude earthquake occurred near Kokopo, reaching a depth of approximately 51.9 kilometers (about 32.2 miles). The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that there was at least one acknowledgment from individuals who felt the tremor at that time. This earthquake came in the wake of a 5.0-magnitude quake reported in Mexico just two days earlier, centered in Santiago Tepextla at a depth of 12.6 kilometers (about 7.9 miles). Additionally, on the preceding Tuesday, a 4.2-magnitude quake had hit Australia, centered in Denman at a depth of 11.1 kilometers (about 6.9 miles). As the geological activity continued, another notable 4.4-magnitude earthquake took place in India, centered in Gyalshing at a depth of 10 kilometers (about 6.2 miles). This event was succeeded by multiple earthquakes across various regions, including two earthquakes in Cuba that preceded a 5.8-magnitude quake in Panama on Sunday, which was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers (about 6.2 miles). Earlier in the month, several other earthquakes occurred, including a 6.2-magnitude tremor in Chile on November 8, which was centered in Cochrane at 10 kilometers (approximately 6.2 miles) deep. Following that, just a day prior, a 5.0-magnitude earthquake was recorded in Peru, noted for its deeper position of 54.8 kilometers (about 34 miles) below the surface. Furthermore, California also experienced a 4.4-magnitude event that day. The tectonic activity extended to Greece as well, where a 4.4-magnitude earthquake was registered, and Hawaii experienced another significant quake of 4.8 magnitude shortly thereafter. This series of earthquakes showcases a noteworthy trend of increased seismic activity across various geographical locations, reflecting the ever-dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust.
Earthquakes result from the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust that creates seismic waves. This phenomenon can occur for a myriad of reasons, such as tectonic plate movements, volcanic activity, or even human actions. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) regularly monitors seismic activity worldwide, providing timely data and reports to inform the public about such events. Recent earthquakes across different regions are indicative of the geological changes influencing these areas, stressing the importance of continuous monitoring.
The recent seismic activity, particularly the 6.6-magnitude earthquake in Papua New Guinea, highlights a series of notable quakes occurring globally within a short period. From Mexico to Australia and beyond, these earthquakes underscore the ongoing shifts within the Earth’s crust. The consistent monitoring by organizations like the USGS remains essential for public awareness and preparedness concerning these geological events.
Original Source: www.iheart.com
