USGS map showing where the earthquake was located

by David Corrigan

This article has been updated to reflect the latest magnitude numbers as determined by USGS scientists

HILO, Hawaii – East Hawaii was shaken after 2 p.m. on Tuesday, after a 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck the Big Island. The United States Geological Survey later upgraded the quake to a magnitude 5.6, before being lowered back to a 5.3.

The USGS centered the earthquake in the Pacific Ocean, 33 miles southeast of Pahala in the southern Ka’u district.

Emergency officials say no tsunami was generated.

The temblor was felt across Hawaii Island. The quake shook homes in Hilo for a few moments before settling down. The incident sent local users of social media chattering away, describing how and where they felt the quake.

Local tweets

We just experienced a 5.2 magnitude earthquake off the southeast shore of Hawai‘i Island. No tsunami is expected,… http://t.co/Snk9qmy6Ir

— Mayor Billy Kenoi (@MayorKenoi) June 5, 2013

Just had a fairly large quake. (Mountain View, HI) Don't know the magnitude but it shook my house pretty good.

— Dennis Soares (@elationrecords) June 5, 2013

Did you feel it? Civil Defense says there was a 5.2 magnitude earthquake south of Hawaii island. There is no tsunami threat.

— Stephanie Lum (@StephanieLum) June 5, 2013

5.2 earthquake on island of Hawaii. Felt it pretty strong here in Waimea!

— KITV4 – Meteorologist Malika Dudley (@MalikaDudley) June 5, 2013

#Earthquake just hit Hilo area .. stay tuned.. not a biggie, not a small one either.

— All Hawaii News (@allhawaiinews) June 5, 2013