Solomon Islands: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs near Malaita Province Nov. 7

A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred near Malaita Province at around 18:30 Nov. 7. The epicenter was about 52 km (32 miles) north-northeast of Auki. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 44 km (27 miles), and moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt near the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout Malaita, Central, Isabel, Guadalcanal, and northwestern Makira-Ulawa provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light 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.