6.0-magnitude earthquake strikes Hawaii, causing damage and rockslides across Big Island

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake shook Hawaiʻi on the evening of May 22, local time, with tremors felt across the island chain and reports of rockslides, power outages, downed utility lines and property damage, according to officials.

The earthquake struck at 9:46 p.m. near Hōnaunau-Nāpōʻopoʻo on Hawaiʻi Island, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The strongest shaking was reported on the western side of the island. Authorities said no tsunami warning was issued following the event.

Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda said the earthquake triggered several rockslides, including along Highway 11 between Captain Cook and Ocean View, where crews worked to clear debris from the roadway. Officials also received reports of power outages, downed utility lines, and damage to homes and other buildings. Kona Community Hospital reported minor damage, but medical services continued without interruption.

USGS reported multiple aftershocks after the main earthquake, including one measuring magnitude 4.0, and said additional aftershocks were possible in the following days. Thousands of people submitted reports describing the shaking they felt.

Earthquakes are common in Hawaiʻi because of the islands’ volcanic and tectonic setting, although most are too small to be widely felt. According to USGS, 36 other earthquakes of magnitude 5.0 or greater have occurred within 100km, or about 60 miles, of this event over the past 50 years.

The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory said the earthquake was not directly linked to magmatic processes. USGS reported that its depth, location and seismic characteristics were consistent with stress caused by the bending of the oceanic plate under the weight of the Hawaiian Island chain. Officials also said there was no apparent impact on Mauna Loa or Kīlauea.

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake can cause strong shaking near the epicentre and may produce localised damage, especially in vulnerable structures or areas affected by rockfalls and ground instability. In this case, officials continued to assess impacts while road crews and utility teams responded to reported damage across parts of South Kona.