Northern Mariana Islands: A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in North Pacific Ocean at around 01:24 ChST Feb. 25

Event

A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred southeast of the Northern Mariana Islands at around 01:24 ChST Feb. 25. The epicenter was approximately 160 km (99 miles) southeast of San Jose Village. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 43 km (27 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. 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, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

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.