A massive earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 has struck the Fiji Islands, a popular holiday destination in the South Pacific. The tremor, which occurred at a significant depth of 174 kilometers (108 miles), was recorded on Monday morning at 8:03 AM local time by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
Areas Affected by the Earthquake
The earthquake’s tremors were felt across several parts of Fiji, including the Lautoka Islands, as reported by locals on social media. Despite its strength, the earthquake’s depth likely prevented more severe damage, with the US Tsunami Warning System confirming that no tsunami is expected.
This 6.5-magnitude quake surpasses Fiji’s largest earthquake of 2024, which was a 5.9-magnitude tremor that struck Levuka in eastern Fiji. The latest earthquake is the most powerful to hit the region in 2025 so far.
Earthquake Details and Impact
The epicenter of the earthquake was located south of the Fiji Islands, in the South Pacific. While the quake was significant, there have been no immediate reports of major damage or casualties.
Fiji, with its over 300 islands, is a seismically active region, lying along the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
The Pacific “Ring of Fire”
The Ring of Fire is a major area of the Earth’s tectonic plate boundaries, where several Pacific nations, including Fiji, Tonga, and Vanuatu, are located. This geologically active region experiences constant seismic activity, resulting in earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
The recent earthquake in Fiji follows a series of significant seismic events in the Pacific region in recent months, including:
- A devastating earthquake in Myanmar in March, which caused massive structural damage.
- A 7.1-magnitude earthquake near Tonga and Niue last month, which triggered a tsunami warning.
- A 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Papua New Guinea in April, which also led to a tsunami warning for coastal areas.
Fiji: A Popular Tourist Destination
Despite its seismic activity, Fiji remains a top tourist destination, attracting nearly one million visitors in 2024. Known for its pristine beaches, breathtaking ocean views, and as the world’s soft coral capital, Fiji continues to be a major draw for travelers seeking tropical paradise.