Volcanic activity in Hawaii makes our state vulnerable to earthquakes. Minor earthquakes happen frequently, even though they typically go unnoticed. The islands also experience severe earthquakes, like a magnitude-6.9 quake related to the Kilauea eruption that rocked the Big Island in May 2018. In October 2006, a magnitude-6.7 quake centered off Kailua-Kona on the Big Island caused extensive damage and led to lengthy electrical outages across most of Oahu. Earthquakes in the ocean can also cause tsunami.

Know what to do

It is important for everyone to know what to do to before, during, and after an earthquake. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the US Geological Survey (USGS) have excellent resources to help you learn what you need to do. For more information, click on the links below.

CDC

FEMA

Make sure your family is prepared

Because major earthquakes can knock out infrastructure, leaving people without power, water, or other utilities, everyone in Hawaii should prepare a family emergency kit that includes at least 14 days of food, water, medicine, and other essentials. It is also important to have a family emergency plan. You can use the helpful guides below to learn more:

“Take 10” pamphlet (emergency kit preparedness)

“Plan to Be Ready” booklet (family emergency plan)

Last reviewed September 2021