5.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Mauna Loa

Strong Shaking Felt Across Hawaii Island

Magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck just off Hawaii Island on Friday morning, Feb. 9, 2024, producing strong shaking felt across the state

A 5.7-magnitude earthquake struck just off Hawaii Island on Friday morning, producing strong shaking felt across the state. The quake struck at around 10:30 a.m. about 6 kilometers south of Volcano, Hawaii, and 10 kilometers northeast of Pahala, Hawaii, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The earthquake was caused by oblique reverse faulting at a depth of 37 kilometers, according to the USGS. Large magnitude earthquakes in Hawaii that occur at this depth are typically caused by the flexing of the Earth's crust due to the weight of the volcanoes.

The quake was felt strongly in the towns of Volcano, Pahala, and Naalehu, where residents reported feeling shaking for several seconds. Some residents reported items being knocked off shelves and furniture rattling.

There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

The earthquake is a reminder of the potential for large earthquakes in Hawaii. While earthquakes are relatively rare in Hawaii, they can be very powerful when they do occur. The last major earthquake in Hawaii was a magnitude 6.9 quake that struck the island of Hawaii in 2018, causing widespread damage.

Residents of Hawaii are urged to be prepared for earthquakes by having an earthquake preparedness kit, knowing what to do during an earthquake, and securing their homes and businesses.