Tsunami alert called off in Wewak

Residents of Wewak and surrounding low laying coastal areas in the province have now been asked to remain calm but to be vigilant as tsunami alert for Wewak has now been called off at 8:30 pm.

Provincial Disaster Coordinator Derek Warakai says his office has been collaborating with Wewak Police and Australian Defence on the ground to monitor and evaluate the situation since 4 pm. this afternoon.

Mr Warakai Commended Wewak Police Command and Australian Defence Force for their swift response in addressing the and monitoring the situation.

The general public has now been urged to remain calm as police will be maintaining patrol to ensure law and order, especially with the heavy movement of people, especially in Wewak.

"Such a situation will now determine whether or not we are prepared to address disasters as a province," Mr Warakai said.

"I am grateful to have immediate response from stakeholders including police and ADF to standby for the worst case scenario," Warakai added.

Meanwhile, preparedness and evacuation plans are now major concerns that need addressing not only for East Sepik but the country as a whole.