A significant earthquake, measuring 6.5 in magnitude, recently struck the popular holiday destination, the Fiji Islands, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 174 kilometres (108 miles), was recorded at 8:03 am local time. Despite its size, the US Tsunami Warning System has stated that there is no anticipation of a tsunami as a result of the earthquake’s depth. Fiji, a collection of over 300 islands in the South Pacific, is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and beaches. In 2024, the country attracted nearly one million tourists. The eastern edge of the Australia plate, where Fiji is situated, is known to be one of the most active seismic zones globally due to the high level of convergence between the Australia and Pacific plates. The USGS located the earthquake’s epicentre south of the Fiji Islands, and there have been no reports of individuals feeling the earthquake at the time of reporting. In a separate event, a smaller earthquake with a magnitude of 5.1 struck the nearby region of the Kermadec Islands at 4:40 pm local time, reaching a depth of 55.8 kilometres. This occurrence follows a tragic 7.7 magnitude earthquake that hit Myanmar on March 28, prompting the US Geological Survey to warn of a possible death toll exceeding 10,000. Moving closer to home, Schiehallion in Scotland, a popular hiking destination, was hit by three earthquakes within a six-hour timeframe, causing houses to shake. Despite its height of over 1,000 metres, Schiehallion is known for its beautiful views and relatively easy ascent, making it a favourite among climbers. The British Geological Society confirmed that the series of earthquakes occurred at the picturesque Perthshire location, with the initial tremor registering a magnitude of 1.8 and happening at a depth of three kilometres. Subsequently, two smaller earthquakes were detected nearby: a 0.8 magnitude quake at a depth of four kilometres, followed by a third at a depth of two kilometres, registering 1 on the Richter scale. The earthquakes at Schiehallion come amidst concerns about global seismic activity, including the recent events in Fiji and Myanmar. While natural phenomena like earthquakes are not uncommon in these regions due to their geological formations, it is essential to monitor and assess the impact of such occurrences to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike. Whether hiking in Scotland or vacationing in the South Pacific, being prepared and informed about seismic activity can help mitigate risks and ensure a safer experience for all. The recent earthquakes serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of our planet and the importance of understanding and adapting to these natural events.
