4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Occurs in Hawaii Amid Increased Seismic Activity

A 4.8-magnitude earthquake was reported in Hawaii on November 5, 2024, after a series of smaller quakes occurred in California, Missouri, and other locations. The USGS noted increased seismic activity, prompting public concern regarding safety.

On November 5, 2024, a 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck Hawaii, specifically near Pāhala, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This earthquake occurred at a depth of 38.4 kilometers (approximately 23.9 miles) and elicited 504 reports from individuals who felt the tremor. This seismic event followed a 3.3-magnitude earthquake in California the day prior, centered in Anza at a depth of 12.1 kilometers (about 7.5 miles). The seismic activity did not stop there, as it was preceded by multiple earthquakes earlier in the same week, including a 5.3-magnitude quake in Greece and a 4.3-magnitude earthquake in Chile. Reports indicated that the Chilean earthquake occurred at a depth of 46.1 kilometers (approximately 28.65 miles), while a 3.7-magnitude earthquake occurred in Missouri on the same day as the event in Chile. Additionally, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake was noted in Oregon on October 30, 2024, along with a series of smaller quakes in California within that timeframe. The activity highlights an uptick in seismic occurrences across various regions, culminating in the notable earthquake in Hawaii, which has stirred public interest and concern regarding seismic safety.

Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon caused by the movement of tectonic plates within the Earth’s crust. Magnitude is a scale used to measure the energy released during an earthquake, with larger values corresponding to more powerful quakes. The recent swarm of seismic activity across multiple regions, including Hawaii and California, underscores the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the potential risks they pose to populations living in seismically active areas. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) plays a critical role in monitoring seismic activity and providing vital information to the public.

In conclusion, the 4.8-magnitude earthquake in Hawaii on November 5, 2024, signifies a continuation of unusual seismic activity across the globe. Following a series of earthquakes in California, Missouri, and abroad, the events serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the Earth’s crust. Monitoring efforts by the USGS remain crucial in informing and protecting those in earthquake-prone regions.

Original Source: www.iheart.com