A massive earthquake of 8.7 magnitude happened this morning around 9:20 am that struck off the east coast of Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia, North Pacific Ocean at a shallow depth of 24km. Triggering a destructive tsunami that is now propagating across the Pacific. Remarks: A very large magnitude earthquake beneath the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia, in the North Pacific Region has generated oceanwide tsunami. The earthquake has generated a destructive local tsunami at the nearby coastlines and is propagating to distant coastlines within the Pacific including the northern coast of Papua New Guinea. The Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management issued warning that the tsunami is anticipated to reach the coastal areas of Manus Island, New Ireland, New Britain Island, Autonomous region of Bougainville, Madang, East and West Sepik Provinces this afternoon between 4.00pm and 7.00pm. The estimated arrival times and tsunami amplitude (height) are as follows: Location Estimated arrival time Approx height (m) • Manus Island - @ 4.50 pm. 1 – 3 meters • Kavieng - @ 4.50 pm 1 – 3 meters • Rabaul - @ 5.50 pm 0.3 – 1.0 meters • Kimbe - @ 5. 40 pm 1 – 3 meters • Madang - @ 5.50 pm 1 – 3 meters • Wewak - @ 5.30 pm 1 – 3 meters • Vanimo - @ 5. 20 pm 1 – 3 meters Tsunami estimated arrival time information is subject to further revision. The public is advised to stay away from coastal areas during the warning period (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). People are urged to avoid going out sea, people are also urged to stay clear of the coastlines, beaches and harbors. Those in the threatened coastal areas are to move to higher ground or further inland. The National Disaster Authorities will provide updates as to when it is safe to return. This information is subject to further revision.