Preparing for Earthquakes in Hawaii
Hawaii experiences daily earthquakes that remind residents of the need for safety preparation. Experts encourage joining the upcoming Great Hawaii Shakeout drill and learning what to do when the ground shakes.
In short: Hawaii experiences daily earthquakes that remind residents of the need for safety preparation. Experts encourage joining the upcoming Great Hawaii Shakeout drill and learning what to do when the ground shakes.
While most earthquakes in Hawaii are too small to notice, occasional larger events can cause sudden damage and remind us to stay prepared.
What happened, in plain words
Scientists and affiliates at the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory shared safety tips and preparation advice in a weekly audio update. They noted that a magnitude-6 earthquake on May 22 struck beneath the Island of Hawaii and caused property damage, rockfalls, closed roads, and power losses. The update also reminded people about the annual Great Hawaii Shakeout earthquake drill scheduled for October 15 at 10:15 a.m.
Key points
- Daily Seismic Activity: Earthquakes occur daily in Hawaii, though most are too minor for people to feel.
- Recent Damage: A magnitude-6 earthquake on May 22 caused power outages, blocked roads, triggered rockfalls, and harmed homes.
- Immediate Safety Steps: When shaking begins, people should drop to their hands and knees, cover their head and neck under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on.
- Coastal Safety: Anyone near the coast who feels strong shaking should move inland or mauka right away to stay safe from a potential local tsunami.
- Preparedness Actions: Residents can prepare by fastening heavy furniture like bookshelves, organizing family emergency plans, and gathering supplies.
Terms explained
- magnitude-6 earthquake — A specific measurement of the size and energy released by an earthquake. Example: A strong earthquake that causes property damage and power outages.
- tsunami — A series of large ocean waves typically generated by underwater disturbances like earthquakes. Example: A sudden ocean wave forcing people near the coast to move inland.
Why it matters
Knowing how to react during an earthquake and securing heavy items in your home can help protect you and your family from injury during unexpected ground shaking.
What we still don't know
The source only discusses safety steps and general preparedness, without covering long-term geological predictions or building structural engineering.
Source: USGS. The original is licensed Domínio público (EUA), exceto conteúdo de terceiros. This text is an AI-assisted adaptation (summarized, simplified and translated) and may differ from the original.