A magnitude-4.1 earthquake shook the southeastern flank of Mauna Loa last night, giving parts of the Big Island a quick jolt. Communities on Hawai‘i island, including areas across the district of Kaʻū, may have felt the brief rumble, but there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency reported on X that the quake struck at 11:38 p.m. HST, at coordinates 19.2 N, 155.5 W, with a magnitude of 4.1 on the southeastern flank of Mauna Loa. The post stated that “No tsunami is expected” and noted that “some areas may have experienced shaking,” according to Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. The agency also reminds the public that its social media account is not monitored around the clock and that emergencies should be reported by calling 9-1-1.
An earthquake has occurred. No tsunami is expected. Origin Time - 11:38 PM HST 26 JAN 2026. Coordinates - 19.2 N 155.5 W. Location - On the southeastern flank of Mauna Loa. Magnitude - 4.1.
— Hawaii EMA (@hawaii_ema) Jan 27, 2026
What Scientists Are Watching
The U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory keeps close tabs on seismic activity beneath Mauna Loa and issues regular public updates on the volcano’s behavior. Current postings list Mauna Loa at a NORMAL alert level and note that isolated magnitude-4 earthquakes are considered routine seismicity and, on their own, do not indicate an impending eruption, according to Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.
Tsunami Centers and Safety
Local and national tsunami centers review earthquakes for any potential tsunami threat and issue informational bulletins designed to keep the public informed without triggering unnecessary evacuations. Official tsunami bulletins and statements from the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center are available at tsunami.gov.
Why This Likely Wasn’t a Sign of Eruption
Scientists with USGS and HVO point out that many earthquakes beneath Hawai‘i are tied to structural adjustments, flank faulting, or even the sheer weight of the islands, rather than direct magma movement. Past USGS reports and HVO monthly summaries describe dozens of small quakes under Mauna Loa as part of its background activity, and current monitoring shows no unusual deformation or heightened volcanic hazard, per USGS Volcano Watch.
Anyone who felt the shaking is encouraged to report what they experienced through official channels and to follow guidance from local emergency officials. For statewide alerts and updates, the public can follow the feed from Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, and should call 9-1-1 for any immediate emergencies.
