Earthquakes risk in Hawaii

Earthquakes risk in Hawaii

Hawaii has a moderate risk of earthquakes. Damaging events happen regularly enough that homeowners should understand their exposure, review insurance coverage and take core preparedness steps.

Based on public hazard data, Hawaii is rated Moderate (level 3 of 5) for earthquakes. Risk varies by county and even by neighborhood, so always verify conditions for your specific address using the official resources listed below.

How homeowners can prepare

• Secure heavy furniture, water heaters and appliances to walls.
• Know how to shut off gas, water and electricity.
• Practice Drop, Cover and Hold On with your household.
• Consider a seismic retrofit for older homes, especially cripple-wall foundations.
• Standard homeowners insurance excludes earthquakes — evaluate separate coverage.

Official sources and live data

• Hawaii Emergency Management Agency — the official emergency management agency for Hawaii.
• USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
• Ready.gov – Earthquakes
• FEMA Earthquake Safety