08 Dec 2023 | 01:33 AM UTC
Solomon Islands: Magnitude-5.8 offshore earthquake occurs near Western Province Dec. 8
Magnitude-5.8 offshore earthquake occurs near Western Province, Solomon Islands, 11:41 Dec. 8. No initial reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.8 offshore earthquake occurred near Western Province at around 11:41 Dec. 8. The epicenter was about 49 km (30 miles) southeast of Gizo. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate to strong shaking was probably felt near the epicenter in central Western Province, as well as light shaking throughout the rest of Western, Choiseul, and Isabel provinces. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
