On February 9, 2024, a significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 occurred 5 km southeast of Naalehu, Hawaii. The quake took place at 20:06:30 UTC, registering at a depth of 100 km. This event was thoroughly documented and reviewed by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the USGS National Earthquake Information Center.
Key Details:
- Magnitude: 6.3 Ml
- Location: 5 km SE of Naalehu, Hawaii
- Date and Time: February 9, 2024, 20:06:30 UTC
- Depth: 100 km
- Impact: The earthquake’s impact and intensity data were collected through community responses and contributions, although detailed reports on damages or injuries were not specified in the provided content.
Insights and Analysis:
- Community Involvement: The event underscores the importance of citizen science, evidenced by the collection of felt reports and community internet intensity maps. Such contributions are crucial for assessing the earthquake’s impact and refining seismic monitoring and response strategies.
- Seismicity Context: This earthquake contributes to the broader understanding of seismic activity in the Hawaii region, an area known for its volcanic and tectonic activity. Analyzing nearby seismicity within a time range of ± three weeks and a search radius of 2500 km, focusing on magnitudes ≥ 3.0, can offer valuable insights into regional seismic patterns.
- Preparedness and Response: The collaborative efforts of organizations like the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the USGS National Earthquake Information Center in providing immediate and reviewed information highlight the importance of preparedness and responsive measures in earthquake-prone regions.
Conclusion:
The M 6.3 earthquake near Naalehu, Hawaii, serves as a reminder of the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Earth’s geophysical processes. It emphasizes the value of community involvement in scientific research and the need for continuous monitoring and preparedness to mitigate the impacts of such natural events.
For more detailed information, please refer to the USGS event page.