The disaster occurred around 3am local time, with residents reporting the entire village suffered heavy damage. Social media footage shows locals desperately searching for survivors amidst the wreckage.

While official confirmation of casualties is awaited, local leader Vincent Pyati stated over a hundred houses were buried, raising concerns of significant loss of life.

Emergency services are yet to reach the remote village located 600km northwest of Port Moresby. Aid agencies are mobilizing to assess the situation and provide assistance. (ILKHA)