A 5.7 magnitude earthquake rattled the Big Island of Hawaii on Friday afternoon, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake's epicenter was pinpointed southwest of Pahala at 12:06 p.m. PST, situated at coordinates 19.188°N 155.493°W and 23 miles beneath the ocean's surface.
Following the initial quake, aftershocks have been felt in the same vicinity, with the USGS cautioning that further aftershocks could occur over the next several days or weeks.
The Office of the Governor of Hawaii communicated via X (formerly Twitter) that there is no tsunami threat associated with the earthquake.
According to the USGS Interactive Map, tremors were noticeable in the northeastern town of Kailua-Kona, approximately 71 miles from Pahala. Reports indicated that the quake's effects were felt over 280 miles away within the first hour, reaching Maui and parts of O'ahu.
Despite the quake's intensity, no structural damage to buildings was anticipated. Additionally, there are no apparent impacts on the Mauna Loa or KÄ«lauea volcanoes.
In a statement, the USGS attributed the earthquake to lithospheric flexure resulting from the Hawaiian Islands' weight on the oceanic lithosphere.
Pahala, situated on the southwestern tip of the Big Island near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Kahuku Unit, had a population of approximately 2,203 people in 2020.
On Friday, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that a magnitude-5.7 earthquake hit the Big Island of Hawaii, causing tremors that were felt as far as about 200 miles away in Honolulu.
The seismic event occurred around 10 a.m. local time and was centered 11 miles south of Naalehu, Hawaii, at a depth of 6 miles beneath the surface. Despite the significant magnitude, no tsunami warning was issued, as stated by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, providing relief to residents and authorities alike.
Reports from the USGS Did You Feel It? page indicated that some shaking was perceptible in Honolulu, located on the neighboring island of Oahu. Following the main quake, several aftershocks rippled through the same region, adding to the seismic activity.
Despite the intensity of the earthquake, there were no immediate reports of significant damage. This fortunate outcome alleviated concerns regarding potential destruction to infrastructure or harm to residents. However, authorities remained vigilant, closely monitoring the situation for any developments or changes.
The event served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of seismic activity in the region, prompting residents to ensure preparedness and awareness of safety protocols in the event of future earthquakes.
.png)
0 Comments