Small Magnitude 3.5 Quake Hits 29 Miles East Of Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Around Noon
Small Magnitude 3.5 Quake Hits 29 Miles East Of Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Around Noon
Earthquake Details
The USGS reported that the quake's epicenter was located in the Pacific Ocean, southwest of Waimanalo and northeast of Molokai. The earthquake had a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
The temblor was felt by residents in Honolulu and surrounding areas, but no immediate reports of damage or injuries were received.
No Tsunami Threat
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) issued a statement around 12:30 PM HST stating that there was no tsunami threat to Hawaii or other Pacific regions following the earthquake.
Seismic Activity in Hawaii
Hawaii is located on the Pacific Plate, which is one of the most active seismic zones in the world. The Big Island is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes because of its active volcanoes and geothermal activity.
While earthquakes are common in Hawaii, the majority of them are small and do not cause any significant damage. However, larger earthquakes can occur, such as the magnitude 6.9 Kona earthquake in 2018, which caused widespread damage to the west coast of the Big Island.
Safety Precautions and Preparedness
Residents of Hawaii are encouraged to be prepared for earthquakes by taking the following steps:
- Have an emergency plan and practice what you will do in the event of an earthquake.
- Keep an emergency kit with food, water, first aid supplies, and other essential items.
- Identify safe places to take cover in your home or workplace.
- Stay informed about earthquake hazards and mitigation techniques.
For more information on earthquake preparedness, visit the USGS website or the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency website.
Conclusion
The small magnitude 3.5 earthquake that occurred east of Honolulu on August 30, 2023, was a reminder of the potential for seismic activity in Hawaii. While most earthquakes in Hawaii are not damaging, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of larger and more destructive events.