Solomon Islands: A magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs in the Solomon Sea northwest of Gizo in Western Province at around 16:01 Sept. 8

A magnitude-5.5 earthquake occurred in the Solomon Sea at around 16:01 Sept. 8. The epicenter was about 109 km (68 miles) northwest of Gizo in Western Province, Solomon Islands. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 42 km (26 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of Western and Choiseul provinces, Solomon Islands, and the southern Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, 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.