Solomon Islands: Authorities lift tsunami warning after magnitude-7.0 offshore earthquake strikes off Guadalcanal Nov. 22 /update 2

Event

Authorities have rescinded all tsunami warnings in relation to the magnitude-7.0 offshore earthquake that occurred in the Solomon Sea off Guadalcanal Island at around 13:03 SBT Nov. 22. However, officials continue to advise the possibility of minor sea level fluctuations in the coming hours. Initial reports indicate widespread power outages and disruptions to radio transmission across the Solomon Islands. There have been no immediate reports of casualties, though it could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Reports indicate at least two magnitude-6.0 aftershocks have occurred following the initial temblor. Additional aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

The epicenter was about 56 km (35 miles) southwest of Honiara. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 14 km (9 miles), and moderate-to-very strong shaking was probably felt in Guadalcanal Island, with weak-to-light shaking likely throughout most of central and southern Solomon Islands.

Advice

Move away from the immediate coastline; tsunamis can be long-duration events, and the threat may persist for hours. Vacate multistoried buildings or unreinforced structures in areas where strong shaking occurred; aftershocks could cause additional damage. Cellular networks may be overwhelmed; use text messaging if services are available. Due to the threat of landslides, seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected area.