Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported “heightened seismic unrest” at Kamaʻehuakanaloa volcano (formerly known as Lōʻihi Seamount), located off to the southeast of Hawaii Island.
The earthquake swarm began about 6 p.m. on Nov. 1, and although seismicity dipped slightly around midnight, the swarm remained above “background levels” on Saturday, according to an HVO status report.
Scientists say there have been over 70 earthquakes in the swarm, with 32 of those greater than magnitude 2.0 and two events above magnitude 4.0. The largest was a magnitude-4.3 that occurred Saturday at 12:05 p.m. located 3.6 miles below sea level and three miles below the volcano’s summit.
The USGS says just one felt report has been received from Hawaii Island because of this event.
Elevated seismic unrest continues at Kamaʻehuakanaloa, although it’s not expected to affect other volcanoes or infrastructure on the island.
Scientists say the source of the earthquakes is currently difficult to pinpoint, though it could be related to magma moving beneath Kamaʻehuakanaloa. Previous swarms have consisted of thousands of earthquakes over days to weeks, likely associated with eruptions at the volcano.
Any eruption at Kamaʻehuakanaloa will not affect Hawaii Island residents, according to HVO, who continue to monitor the undersea volcano and will issue further updates regarding significant changes in activity.