Fiji Islands region, South Pacific —

What happened:

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck deep in the ocean floor south of the Fiji Islands Tuesday evening, shaking the South Pacific at 6:24 PM CT. The U.S. Geological Survey measured the quake at a depth of about 517 kilometers — more than 320 miles below the surface — roughly 230 kilometers south of the island chain's southern reaches.

Impacts:

Because this quake happened so far down, it released its energy deep underground, which means far less shaking reached the surface. No tsunami threat was issued, and no damage reports are expected from an earthquake this deep in open water. The USGS has reviewed and confirmed the location and magnitude.

What to do:

Deep earthquakes in remote ocean areas are not a danger to residents, but the USGS reminds everyone that aftershocks can follow any significant quake. If you ever feel shaking, drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until it stops. Check for hazards like cracked walls or broken glass after strong shaking.

Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), October 20, 2026.