A magnitude-4.7 earthquake struck off the east coast of Hawaii’s Big Island on Tuesday, June 9, at approximately 10:37 p.m. local time. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the tremor was centered about 14 miles east of Pāpa‘ikou at a depth of roughly 24 miles below sea level.
The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) reported that while the earthquake was felt widely across the Big Island, as well as on Maui, Moloka‘i, and O‘ahu, there is no threat of a tsunami. The USGS received more than 700 “Felt Reports” within the first hour of the event. Officials confirmed there is no expected damage to buildings or critical infrastructure.
The HVO clarified that this seismic event is similar in origin to previous tremors in the region, including the May 22 and June 2 quakes. Scientists attribute these occurrences to the stress exerted by the weight of the island chain on the underlying rigid mantle, rather than volcanic activity or magma movement. The observatory confirmed that Mauna Loa and Kīlauea volcanoes remain unaffected.
While no immediate aftershocks have caused concern, the HVO stated that aftershocks are possible in the coming days and weeks. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates through the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and the USGS.