NIUATOPUTAPU, Niuas — Monday evening, a 5.2 magnitude quake was detected close to Hihifo, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

It was reported that a tremor struck the region at 07:48 UTC (19:48 local time). The epicenter was situated approximately 89 km north-northeast of Hihifo, at a depth of 10 km. Seismologists first reported it as a 5.5 event, but later downgraded it to 5.2.

Did you feel it?

You can let the USGS know if you felt the earthquake by filling out their Felt Report form. The agency has so far received 3 reports via its online form from people who indicate they experienced the quake. The USGS DYFI report indicates that several residents in Tulaele and the surrounding area felt weak shaking during the tremor.

Impact and estimated losses

Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Structure information summary
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are informal (metal, timber, GI etc.) and unknown/miscellaneous types construction.

Two quakes near Hihifo last week

In the past week, there have been two quakes, above magnitude 2.5, centered in the area. Both were recorded in the same area where the larger one was a 5.4 earthquake that hit six days earlier. The other, of magnitude 4.8, hit on August 13.

Source: The U.S. Geological Survey