Magnitude 6.3 earthquake jolts Hawaii's big island, no Tsunami threat

A major earthquake jolted Hawaii on Friday, according to reports from US seismologists. However, officials assured the public that there was no imminent threat of a tsunami following the event.

The seismic activity, measuring 6.3 magnitude, originated near Pahala on the primary island of Hawaii. The epicenter was approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) beneath the Earth's surface, as confirmed by the US Geological Survey (USGS).

Notable quake, preliminary info: M 6.3 - 5 km SE of Naalehu, Hawaii https://t.co/YMzhsJTNhZ

— USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) February 9, 2024

Reports flooded in from across the main island, detailing the sensation of the tremors, according to accounts submitted to the USGS via an online platform.

A powerful 6.3 Mag earthquake shook the Big Island in Hawaii.

No major damage is currently reported, and no tsunami warnings. https://t.co/Pe4RRvPMEk pic.twitter.com/7pckP7T8Is

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 9, 2024

The USGS stated that the likelihood of casualties or substantial damage resulting from the earthquake was minimal. Meanwhile, the quake was felt all over the island, according to the website on which people submitted their experience to the USGS's platform.

Another major jolt of the magnitude of 5.7 was felt, which originated at 2 KM South West of Pāhala, Hawaii. 

https://t.co/S1Q8lrA6xO pic.twitter.com/Qjv7p8IVKA

— USGS Earthquakes (@USGS_Quakes) February 9, 2024

A home for six volcanoes

Despite residing in the center of a massive tectonic plate, Hawaii remains an area of heightened seismic activity. The archipelago is home to six active volcanoes including Kilauea, which frequently captivates tourists with its awe-inspiring displays of molten lava on the Big Island.

When Kilauea volcano erupts in Hawaii, its lava flows into the ocean and enlarges the island's surface, creating new land. During the 30-year-long eruption from 1983 to 2013, it added another 500 acres.pic.twitter.com/xbitOwk3XF

— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) February 9, 2024

Moreover, Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth, which captured global attention in 2022 with its first eruption in four decades, is also located on the island. During the eruption, lava fountains soared as high as 60 meters (200 feet), cascading rivers of molten rock down its slopes.