The 1975 Kalapana earthquake, the most significant seismic event in Hawaii in the last century, serves as a stark reminder of the islands' vulnerability. This month marks the 50th anniversary of the event, which included a magnitude 7.2 main shock after an initial 5.7 magnitude quake. According to a USGS.gov report, the earthquake triggered ground subsidence and a local tsunami, leading to significant destruction. The impacts of this earthquake, including altered stress patterns at Kīlauea, continue to be examined by researchers today.
Researchers at the University of Hawai‘i have uncovered how the earthquake fundamentally changed the evolution of Kilauea. West Hawaii Today reported that the 1975 event altered the way the south flank of Hawaii Island has shifted, causing ground displacement and a tsunami. Big Island Video News also noted that the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Department of Earth Sciences determined that the earthquake “significantly altered the region’s state of stress and deformation.”
For Hawaii's business community, the Kalapana earthquake offers important learning opportunities. The event underscored the necessity of robust disaster preparedness plans, particularly for businesses in vulnerable areas. This includes securing physical infrastructure, developing business continuity strategies, and having adequate insurance coverage. Beyond direct physical damage, the earthquake highlighted the potential for disruptions to supply chains, tourism, and real estate, all crucial sectors for the Hawaiian economy. Investors and entrepreneurs should incorporate these risks into their due diligence processes, considering the potential impact of similar events. Furthermore, this historical event highlights the importance of staying informed about geological hazards and supporting community resilience efforts.
