Shallow M5.7 earthquake hits northeast of Labasa, Fiji
A shallow M5.7 earthquake was registered at 05:00 UTC on December 19, 2025, approximately 136 km (85 miles) northeast of Labasa, Fiji. The quake occurred at a depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles), based on reviewed data.
The epicenter was geographically positioned at 15.6°S, 179.7°W, placing it offshore and northeast of Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu. This region is characterized by sparsely populated islands and nearby reef systems.
Given the proximity to Vanua Levu and smaller islands, critical infrastructure that might be present includes inter-island ferry routes, regional airports, and local maritime facilities. Urban infrastructure in Labasa and coastal settlements may be several dozen kilometers from the epicenter.
There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.
The maximum estimated intensity for this event is VI. The significance index is 500 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.
The Fiji region lies along the tectonically active Pacific Plate boundary, where frequent shallow and intermediate-depth earthquakes are common due to complex subduction processes adjacent to the Tonga Trench.
This information was last updated at 05:23 UTC on December 19, 2025.