The Fiji Seismology Unit has released its December 2025 Earthquake Summary for the Fiji region, confirming that 435 earthquakes were recorded during the month, with only two felt events reported by the public.
According to the statement, earthquake magnitudes ranged from a minimum of 1.1 to a maximum of 5.7.
“One of the felt events was a magnitude 4.4 earthquake on 9 December 2025, which was felt in the Yasawas and parts of the Western Division, including Lautoka,” the Seismology Unit said.
The second felt event was stronger.
“A magnitude 5.7 earthquake on 19 December 2025 was felt in parts of Vanua Levu and nearby islands,” the statement said.
“This event generated dozens of aftershocks, the strongest measuring magnitude 4.4.”
Providing an overview of seismic activity, the Seismology Unit noted a high concentration of shallow earthquakes in northern Fiji, particularly around Vanua Levu, extending from the northern Yasawas to Cikobia Island along the Fiji Fracture Zone.
“This level of activity is expected for this fault zone,” the statement said.
Deep earthquakes, occurring at depths of 300 to 600 kilometres, were mainly recorded east of Fiji beneath the Lau Basin, reflecting ongoing subduction-related activity as the Pacific Plate moves beneath the Indo-Australian Plate.
Other areas of minor shallow seismic activity were detected around Kadavu Island, southeast Viti Levu, and parts of Vanua Levu, particularly near Savusavu Bay.
The Seismology Unit also highlighted a brief earthquake swarm near Naigani Island in Tailevu Province on 7 December, with the strongest measuring magnitude 2.5.
“No felt reports were received from this swarm,” the statement said.
The Fiji Seismology Unit reassured the public that such levels of seismic activity are normal for Fiji, given its location along active tectonic boundaries, and advised residents to remain informed and prepared through official updates.
