7.2 magnitude earthquake jolts Papua New Guinea

An earthquake measuring 7.2 on the Richter Scale struck Papua New Guinea on Monday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said.

The quake hit a depth of almost 127 km and took place at 9:19 pm (UTC time). The epicentre of the quake was located 33 kilometres northwest of Bulolo, according to USGS.

According to reports, tremors were also felt in capital Port Moresby.

There were no reports of any casualties, injuries or damage to property. No tsunami warning has been issued.

This is the second quake to hit Papua New Guinea in a day.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.5 had jolted 76 kilometres west of Panguna. The quake took place at 2:13 pm (UTC time) and hit at a depth of almost 59 km, the USGS had said.

No loss to life or property has been reported yet.

Papua New Guinea lies in the 'Ring of Fire', an area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean, which is vulnerable to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.