Powerful 6.9-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Papua New Guinea Coast

A strong 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Papua New Guinea's New Britain Island early Saturday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 to 49 kilometers, depending on the reporting agency. Initially, a tsunami warning was issued but was later cancelled. There have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties, but authorities are monitoring the situation closely. Earthquakes are common in this region, which lies on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire.