A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Honaunau-Napoopoo on Hawaii's Big Island late Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The quake prompted the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory to assess conditions at Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes located on the same island.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 23 kilometers, or 14 miles, USGS data showed. It was felt across the islands of Hawaii, Maui, and Oahu, though the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center stated that no tsunami was expected.
Officials reported no immediate damage or casualties from the event. The timing of the quake coincided with ongoing monitoring of Kilauea, which has been erupting episodically since December 23, 2024.
In an update issued earlier Friday, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory indicated that the next eruption at Kilauea would likely occur sometime between May 24 and May 27, based on forecast models. The observatory continues to evaluate whether the earthquake has altered any volcanic activity patterns.
Residents on the Big Island described feeling strong shaking that lasted several seconds. The USGS noted that the event was widely reported across multiple islands, highlighting the reach of seismic activity in the region.
Kilauea has a long history of eruptions that draw both scientific attention and tourism to the area. The current eruptive phase, which began in late December, has featured intermittent activity that scientists have tracked closely through ground sensors and satellite imagery.
Local emergency management teams were placed on standby following the quake, though no specific alerts beyond standard assessments were issued. The absence of a tsunami warning allowed normal operations to continue at ports and coastal areas.
USGS personnel emphasized that aftershocks remain possible in the coming days. They urged residents to follow standard earthquake preparedness guidelines, including securing heavy objects and identifying safe spots inside buildings.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed through its monitoring systems that sea level readings showed no unusual activity linked to the quake. This assessment aligned with initial modeling that ruled out any significant ocean displacement.
Scientists at the volcano observatory are reviewing seismic and deformation data to determine if the earthquake influenced pressure within Kilauea's magma system. Such evaluations typically take several hours to complete after a significant event.
Previous earthquakes in the region have sometimes preceded changes in volcanic behavior, though each instance requires separate analysis. The observatory's forecast for the next eruption window remains unchanged at this stage.
Travelers and residents alike were advised to monitor updates from official channels such as the USGS and county emergency management offices. No road closures or utility disruptions were reported in the immediate aftermath.
The event underscores the dynamic geology of the Hawaiian Islands, where tectonic and volcanic processes intersect regularly. Monitoring agencies continue to provide real-time information as conditions evolve.