Powerful magnitude-7.1 earthquake hits near Papua New Guinea

SYDNEY – Officials say a powerful earthquake has rocked the Papua New Guinea area.

The U.S. Geological Survey says the earthquake measured magnitude 7.1 and was located 65 kilometers (40 miles) west-southwest of Panguna in Papua New Guinea. It says it struck at 8:31 p.m. (1031 GMT) Wednesday at a depth of 58 kilometers (36 miles).

There are no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said a destructive Pacific-wide tsunami is unlikely.