M5.7 earthquake hits southeastern flank of Mauna Loa volcano, Hawaii

A strong earthquake registered by the USGS as M5.7 (downgraded from M6.3) hit the southeastern flank of Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii at 20:33 UTC on February 9, 2024. The agency is reporting a depth of 36.8 km (22.8 miles).

The epicenter was located 2.3 km (1.4 miles) SW of Pāhala (population 1 356), 70.8 km (44 miles ) SW of Hawaiian Paradise Park, and 73.6 km (45.7 miles) SW of Hilo, Hawaii.

1 000 people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking and 5 000 moderate.

The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick masonry and reinforced masonry construction.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are resistant to earthquake shaking, though vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick masonry and reinforced masonry construction.

Residents on the Big Island say the quake shook items from shelves and threw pictures from shelves. It was also felt on other islands, including on Oahu, Hawaii News Now reports.

The quake comes amid a period of increased seismicity on Hawaii Island linked to the Kilauea volcano.

There were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google