What's happened
A shallow Hawaii quake has been felt across the Big Island, Maui and Oahu. USGS reports it is not linked to volcanoes, while HVO predicts another eruption window for Kilauea between May 24-27. Tsunami risk remains low as officials confirm no injuries or major damage.
What's behind the headline?
Live, immediate context
- The quake has broad but shallow impact, with widespread shaking reported yet limited damage.
- The USGS statements emphasize a tectonic rather than volcanic origin, while HVO flags a near-future eruption window for Kilauea, signaling ongoing volcanic risk on the island.
- Readers should anticipate possible updates as forecast models are refined and field assessments continue.
Forecasted developments
- If Kilauea erupts within the May 24-27 window, authorities expect heightened ashfall management, evacuations for nearby communities may be unnecessary yet precautionary actions could be taken.
- No tsunami is expected, but monitoring will continue given heightening seismic activity in the region.
How we got here
The USGS says the quake originated about 23 km below the surface near Honaunau-Napoopoo, with felt shaking across multiple islands. Kilauea has been erupting intermittently since December 2024, and forecast models now point to another eruptive episode within a narrow window at the end of May.
Our analysis
The Independent reports the USGS about 23 km depth quake near Honaunau-Napoopoo with shaking on multiple islands; Reuters notes HVO forecast window for Kilauea eruption; NY Post cites similar forecast and widespread shaking; Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirms no tsunami risk.
Go deeper
- Will there be more aftershocks?
- How should residents prepare in case of renewed eruption?
- Which areas are most at risk for rockslides or power outages?
More on these topics
-
Kīlauea - Shield volcano in Hawaii
Kīlauea is an active shield volcano in the Hawaiian Islands that last erupted between 1983 and 2018. Historically, Kīlauea is the most active of the five volcanoes that together form the island of Hawaiʻi.
-
United States Geological Survey - Agency
The United States Geological Survey is a scientific agency of the United States government. The scientists of the USGS study the landscape of the United States, its natural resources, and the natural hazards that threaten it.