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 1 earthquake, the largest an M5.1 (south of the Fiji Islands).
Counts include M2.5+ events — the smallest size USGS reports consistently worldwide.
Recent earthquakes
| Magnitude | Time (UTC) | Depth | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| M5.1 | Jul 28, 20:23 UTC | 575 km | south of the Fiji Islands |
| M4.6 | Jul 26, 18:15 UTC | 535 km | south of the Fiji Islands |
| M4.3 | Jul 26, 00:02 UTC | 395 km | 279 km WSW of Houma, Tonga |
| M4.2 | Jul 24, 10:09 UTC | 602 km | 270 km E of Levuka, Fiji |
| M4.2 | Jul 24, 08:20 UTC | 570 km | 213 km ENE of Levuka, Fiji |
| M4.5 | Jul 23, 20:22 UTC | 489 km | 286 km ESE of Levuka, Fiji |
| M4.5 | Jul 23, 19:42 UTC | 542 km | 275 km E of Levuka, Fiji |
Notable recent activity
A moderate M5.1 earthquake struck south of the Fiji Islands at 20:23 UTC on Jul 28 at a depth of 575 km.
An M4.6 earthquake struck south of the Fiji Islands at 18:15 UTC on Jul 26 at a depth of 535 km.
An M4.5 earthquake struck 275 km E of Levuka, Fiji at 19:42 UTC on Jul 23 at a depth of 542 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.