Earthquakes Near Kailua-Kona Today
Live answer from USGS data — every earthquake within 150 km (93 mi) of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Checking live USGS data near Kailua-Kona…
Why Kailua-Kona gets earthquakes
Kailua-Kona felt Hawaii's most damaging recent earthquake up close: the 2006 Kīholo Bay M6.7 struck just offshore to the north, injuring dozens, damaging Kona hotels and the Hāmākua coast, and knocking out power across the entire state — even Honolulu went dark.
The Kona side sits on the flanks of Hualālai and Mauna Loa volcanoes; deep quakes under the island's northwest side (like Kīholo Bay, 24 miles deep) come from the crust flexing under the volcanoes' enormous weight. Small events are common, and Mauna Loa's unrest periods add swarms.
Kailua-Kona earthquake FAQ
▸Did Kailua-Kona just have an earthquake?
The live panel at the top of this page checks the USGS catalog for every earthquake within 150 km of Kailua-Kona and answers in one line. Keep in mind USGS data lags real shaking by roughly 2–3 minutes in California and up to ~8 minutes in other regions — if you felt something seconds ago, refresh shortly.
▸What faults cause earthquakes near Kailua-Kona?
The 2006 Kīholo Bay M6.7 — a deep flexural quake caused by the island's weight bending the ocean crust — struck just north of Kailua-Kona. Hualālai and Mauna Loa volcanic seismicity are the other main local sources.
▸What magnitude earthquake can you feel in Kailua-Kona, HI?
Close to the epicenter, people typically begin to feel earthquakes around magnitude 2.5–3.0. An M4+ is felt across a wide area and rattles objects; M5+ can damage buildings near the epicenter. Shallow quakes feel stronger than deep ones of the same magnitude, and soft soils amplify shaking.
▸What should I do if I feel an earthquake in Kailua-Kona?
Drop, Cover, and Hold On — get low, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops. Afterward, check for hazards like gas leaks, and expect possible aftershocks. If you're in a coastal area and the shaking is strong or lasts a long time, move inland or to high ground. Official guidance: ready.gov/earthquakes.