23 May 2022 | 07:28 PM UTC
Northern Mariana Islands: Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurs east of Rota at around 04:45 ChST May 24
Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs east of Rota, Northern Mariana Islands, at 04:45 ChST May 24. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurred east of the island of Rota at around 04:45 ChST May 24. The epicenter was about 102 km (63 miles) south-southeast of San Jose Village, Northern Mariana Islands. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 77 km (47 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible where shaking occurred.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
