Recent earthquakes in Fiji
Fiji lies in a tectonically complex part of the southwest Pacific, near the Tonga-Kermadec subduction zone where the Pacific Plate dives steeply beneath the region. It is best known for deep-focus earthquakes, some occurring more than 500 km below the surface as the subducted slab sinks into the mantle. These deep events rarely cause damage at the surface. In the past 24 hours, Fiji has recorded no earthquakes above the reporting threshold.
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Recent earthquakes
| Magnitude | Time (UTC) | Depth | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| M4.6 | Sep 9, 18:19 UTC | 499 km | 295 km WNW of Houma, Tonga |
| M4.5 | Sep 8, 01:39 UTC | 569 km | south of the Fiji Islands |
| M4.4 | Sep 7, 22:35 UTC | 542 km | 213 km ENE of Levuka, Fiji |
| M4.5 | Sep 6, 21:08 UTC | 605 km | 236 km E of Levuka, Fiji |
Notable recent activity
An M4.6 earthquake struck 295 km WNW of Houma, Tonga at 18:19 UTC on Sep 9 at a depth of 499 km.
An M4.5 earthquake struck 236 km E of Levuka, Fiji at 21:08 UTC on Sep 6 at a depth of 605 km.
An M4.5 earthquake struck south of the Fiji Islands at 01:39 UTC on Sep 8 at a depth of 569 km.
Frequently asked questions
Does Fiji get earthquakes?
Fiji experiences frequent earthquakes, many of them very deep, related to the Pacific Plate subducting steeply nearby. Because most are deep or offshore, they are often felt only weakly despite large magnitudes.
Why does Fiji have deep earthquakes?
Near Fiji, the Pacific Plate has been subducting for a long time and its slab now extends hundreds of kilometres into the mantle. Earthquakes on this deep slab — some below 500 km — make the region one of the world's most productive sources of deep-focus seismicity.
Has Fiji had large earthquakes?
Fiji and the surrounding sea have hosted many large-magnitude earthquakes, including deep events of magnitude 8, such as one in 2018 at about 600 km depth. Their depth generally spares populated areas from strong shaking.
Nearby regions
Live data from the USGS earthquake feeds. Magnitudes and depths are automated readings and may be revised. Not for emergency use.