Some details about Seismic Swarm News of Samoan Isls

 

A swarm of small earthquakes has been occurring in the Manuʻa islands of American Samoa.

Local residents and the National Park of American Samoa's staff reported that the activity started on 26 July. Since 10 August, earthquakes have been felt by residents of Ofu and Olosega islands, as well. Several residents of Taʻū reported loud-booming noises in the night of 10 Aug. Witnesses reported that earthquakes vary in intensity characterized by sharp peaks.

The microseismic network, installed in Fitiʻuta village on Taʻū island, registered approx. 30-60 quakes per hour on 13 August, most of events were too small to be felt. Estimated magnitudes of the largest quakes range between M 2 and 3.

Not all earthquake swarms on volcanoes result in eruptions. Current low-level earthquake activity may continue and vary in intensity for days to months or longer without an eruption. It is also possible that the swarm is an early precursor to an eventual eruption. At this time, the HVO cannot determine which of these possibilities is more likely. A large explosive eruption similar to the Tonga eruption earlier this year is extremely unlikely.

Source: Hawaiian Volcano Observatory volcano activity update 16 August 2022