The governor of Hawaii, Linda Lingle, has made a state wide disaster declaration after a powerful earthquake and repeated aftershocks today.
The 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the west coast of Hawaii this morning.
The earthquake was not strong enough to trigger a tsunami warning and there have been no immediate reports of serious injuries but there are scattered reports of damage.
Power outages were widespread and telephone services have been affected.
In Honolulu there are reports of crowded supermarkets as shoppers stock up on food, water and batteries.
The disaster declaration means that the National Guard can be mobilized.
Flights from Honolulu International Airport were cancelled although incoming planes were being allowed to land.
There has been major damage reported on Hawaii island, including to the Kona Hospital.
