The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that on Friday, the Big Island of Hawaii experienced a 5.7 magnitude earthquake. Initially reported as a 6.3 magnitude event just 1.25 miles off of Naalehu, Hawaii, the USGS later revised its magnitude assessment.
“On Friday, February 9, 10:06 a.m. HST, a magnitude-5.7 earthquake occurred 2 km (1.25 mi) southwest of Pāhala on the Island of Hawai’i at a depth of 37 km (23 mi) below sea level,” stated the USGS.
“The earthquake had no apparent impact on either Mauna Loa or Kīlauea volcanoes. Numerous aftershocks have been felt and are expected to continue. This earthquake is likely associated with lithospheric flexure caused by the weight of the Hawaiian Islands on the oceanic lithosphere,” it added.
The USGS highlighted that its Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is actively monitoring the state’s volcanoes following the seismic activity. Additionally, the organization cautioned that aftershocks from the earthquake may persist for days or even weeks.
According to reports by Khon 2, residents in the vicinity of the earthquake shared their experiences with the news outlet.
One resident from Hilo described the earthquake as “huge” and expressed concern about the structural integrity of her home. “It just kept going. And, you know, being in a post in your home, it actually felt like the home was going to collapse,” said Christine Kaehuaea, a resident of Discovery Harbor. “It was so strong.”
