Magnitude 4.0 Earthquake Near Maunaloa Road Unrelated to Magmatic Activity
A magnitude-4.0 earthquake occurred 11 miles west-northwest of Volcano, Hawaii, at a depth of 13 miles. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory stated that this seismic event is unrelated to any magmatic activity and has no impact on the region’s volcanoes. About 130 felt reports were recorded shortly after the quake, particularly from East Hawaii, North Kona, and Kaʻū.
On November 30, a magnitude-4.0 earthquake struck approximately 11 miles west-northwest of Volcano, Hawaii, at a depth of 13 miles beneath sea level. The event occurred at 8:40 a.m., near the Northeast Rift Zone of Maunaloa. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) has clarified that this earthquake is not associated with any magmatic activity. Furthermore, they report that it had no noticeable impact on the volcanic activity of either Maunaloa or Kīlauea. An estimated 130 residents reported feeling the tremors, with notable responses from areas such as East Hawaiʻi—including the Puna district, Hilo, and Hamakua coast—as well as North Kona and the southern regions of Kaʻū.
Hawaii is an area of significant geological interest due to its volcanic activity and seismic events. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory monitors these phenomena, providing important updates and clarifications regarding earthquakes and their potential effects on the state’s volcanoes. Understanding the distinction between earthquakes linked to tectonic events versus those associated with volcanic activity is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of volcanic systems and ensuring public safety.
In summary, the magnitude-4.0 earthquake that occurred near Maunaloa Road on November 30 was determined to have no connection to magmatic activity, as confirmed by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. While the earthquake was felt widely across several regions in East and North Hawaii, no adverse effects on the Maunaloa or Kīlauea volcanoes were reported, providing reassurance to the local populace regarding volcanic stability.
Original Source: mauinow.com
