February 14, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A series of moderate earthquakes hit the area of southern Iran today. The largest
of these was an M 4.9 which was felt with intensity IV in Kongan, Bushehr, Iran. EMSC reported
a long shake in Bandar-e Asaluyeh. These events of M 4.5. 4.9, 4.6, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5 might
be misconstrued to be related to the current hostilities in this area near
Bandar Abbas. But this appears to be a natural series. The reason relates
to triggering from solar flares. A moderately strong solar flare of M1.0
began at 08:29 UT and was given the following preliminary parameters
by SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0828 0858 1030 M1.0 (February 13, 2026) 1.9E-02
Iran M 4,3-4.9 10:33-19:50 UT
At M1.0 this is a moderate flare but the total enhancement over background
in the X-ray flux for this event is the strongest in at least the past week
and the integrated energy associated with the flare likewise.
As it happens southern Iran at 52 degrees East longitude was within minutes
of local solar noon when this flare began. This probably set up the area for the
subsequent series of earthquakes through SFE interaction not through artificial
means. Data on the Iranian earthquakes today from EMSC follow. This is likely
to continue for several more hours.
These epicenters are at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu and from Mindanao
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 13FEB2026 19:50:18 27.4N 52.6E MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 13FEB2026 19:44:34 27.4N 52.7E MB=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 13FEB2026 19:33:39 27.7N 55.8E MB=4.3 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 13FEB2026 16:03:02 28.1N 57.4E MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 13FEB2026 11:08:38 27.4N 52.7E MB=4.9 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 13FEB2026 10:33:21 27.5N 52.6E MB=4.5 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
A strong earthquake of M 6.5 occurred today in central Vanuatu.
NEIC reported it was likely felt in the area of Port Olry, Vanuatu with intensity up to VII.
This is the strongest earthquake observed on the earth since an M 6.5 more than
a month ago in Guerrero, Mexico on January 2, 2026.
It appears to have been triggered by a moderate B8.0 solar flare. SWPC
places this flare maximum output at the same minute as the earthquake
in Vanuatu near local solar noon in Vanuatu. Vanuatu is near sub-solar
at 14 South latitude in mid-February and effects of solar flares are
maximized under these circumstances. Preliminary data for this flare, which
was the second largest in the past day, from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0215 0229 0243 B8.0 (February 14, 2026) 1.2E-03 *
Vanuatu M 6.5 02:28 UT
This is the strongest earthquake in Vanuatu within about 200 km of this epicenter
since an M 6.7 on November 22, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
" pair of strong earthquakes were recorded today in Halmahera south of Mindanao, Philippines
(M 6.0-6.6) and in Vanuatu (M 6.7). These occurred as a strong geomagnetic storm, the
first in more than a week began. They are near the geomagnetic equator and may
have been promoted by stresses associated with that storm as noted in this summary as:
...
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.7 in central Vanuatu.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Vanuatu
since an M 7.0 on January 8, 2023. At the time this summary noted in this
regard:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 7.0 in central Vanuatu. NEIC reported it was felt with minor damage in Vanuatu in Sanma at Port Olry (VIII) and Luganville (VI) with intensity IV in Vila Shefa, Vanuatu.
This earthquake occurred near local solar midnight and was probably promoted
by strong tidal stresses with the full moon of January 6 as it occurrred near
a longitude of maximum stress with that event as previously noted in this summary
...
The last strong earthquake in central Vanuatu of M>=6.5 was an M 6.9 on August 18, 2021.
The last earthquake within about 250 km of today's epicenter with M>=7 in the region was
an M 7.0 on April 28, 2016 and prior to that an M 7.1 on October 20, 2015 near today's epicenter.
The environmental conditions at the time of the event on October 20, 2015
in Vanuatu were similar to those today with stresses from a new moon..." (January 8, 2023, November 22, 2023)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Taiwan and from Honshu, Japan
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources. It
is also at the third node (120 degrees) from TC Gezani - another node 6 distance.
O: 14FEB2026 02:27:40 15.0S 168.5E MB=6.5 EMSC VANUATU
This event in Vanuatu may also precede a strong enhancement of global seismicity
associated with the upcoming annular solar eclipse and new moon of February 17.
This eclipse will be visible in Argentina and Chile, South Africa and Antartica
with maximum eclipse at 12:13:05 UT near the South Geomagnetic Pole when Vanuatu is within minutes of
local solar midnight. It will be a long-lasting event. The associated new moon
has the following seismic implications as per this summary:
The new moon will arrive on February 17, 2026 at 12:01 UT. This will include an annular eclipse of the sun, enhancing seismic effects when it occurs. Longitudes which are at local solar noon area near 0 W/E (GMT) and those at local solar midnight at 180 W/E (IDL). These longitudes include western Europe and much of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge system as well as the Vanuatu/Tonga/Fiji/New Zealand arc and the central and western Aleutians. These are the most likely areas to see enhanced tidal triggering in the next week. A strong tidally promoted earthquake is considered likely in the time period February 14-21, 2026.
It should also be noted that today's event in Vanuatu also saw a moderately
large earthquake in Halmahera of M 5.6. This event occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Halmahera, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Halmahera, Indonesia with likely III shaking near Tobelo, Indonesia.
O: 13FEB2026 21:49:40 4.0N 126.5E mb=4.4 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 15:55:16 4.1N 128.1E mb=4.9 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 10:26:27 4.2N 128.4E ML=4.3 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 10:43:33 4.2N 128.4E ML=4.1 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 10:49:52 4.2N 128.2E ML=4.4 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 15:09:32 4.2N 128.2E mb=4.9 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 15:23:25 4.2N 128.3E mb=4.7 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 18:56:54 4.2N 127.8E mb=4.5 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 14:57:01 4.3N 128.3E Mw=5.6 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 17:39:14 4.3N 128.2E mb=4.7 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 21:17:02 4.3N 128.4E ML=4.4 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 14FEB2026 00:35:19 4.3N 128.3E mb=4.5 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 14FEB2026 01:02:19 4.3N 126.7E mb=4.8 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 13:12:19 4.4N 128.3E mb=4.6 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 13FEB2026 20:27:55 4.0N 128.2E MB=4.6 EMSC NORTH OF HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
The most widely felt earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 3.5 in the Salt Lake City area of Utah. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Salt Lake City and Magna, Utah with III in Bingham Canyon, Orem, West Jordan, Midvale, Bountiful, Roy, Fayette, Sandy, Woods Cross, Draper, North Salt Lake, and II in Tooele, Park City, Springville, Layton, Alpine, Lehi, Herriman, Clearfield, and Riverton.
This epicenter is located at 146 degrees from TC Gezani and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 14FEB2026 01:32:48 40.7N 112.0W ML=3.5 EMSC WASATCH FRONT URBAN AREA, UTAH
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Rat Islands, Aleutians was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Rat Islands, Aleutians with intensity III.
O: 14FEB2026 07:10:02 52.0N 178.4E MB=5.0 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Central South Carolina near Columbia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central South Carolina near Columbia with intensity IV and III in South Carolina at Irmo, Lexington, Greenville, Chapin, Lexington, Winnsboro, Leesville, and II in Gilbert, Aiken and in Charlotte, North Carolina.
EMSC reported fast moderate shaking and noise in South Carolina at Lake Murray of Richland, Lexington, Irmo, Saint Andrews and Red Bank.
O: 13FEB2026 23:43:16 34.1N 81.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTH CAROLINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Anchorage, Willow, Chugiak and II in Eagle River and Wasilla.
O: 13FEB2026 12:36:19 61.7N 149.7W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia with III in Quindio at Salento and Armenia and II in Roldanillo Valle del Cauca and Pereira, Risaralda.
O: 13FEB2026 11:40:53 4.9N 76.3W MB=4.9 EMSC COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Pacifica, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Pacifica, California with III in Millbrae and II in Pacifica, San Francisco and Pinole.
O: 13FEB2026 11:25:14 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 13FEB2026 11:25:14 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.5 NEIC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, and Yelizovo.
O: 13FEB2026 11:45:33 52.1N 160.3E MB=4.4 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 14FEB2026 05:24:17 52.8N 159.1E mb=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 2.1 in Virginia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Virginia iwith a loud boom in Sparta.
O: 13FEB2026 17:15:26 36.5N 81.1W MD=2.1 EMSC VIRGINIA-N CAROLINA BORDER REG
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI (21S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-14 00:00 UT 24.3S 35.7E 115 kts South of Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani (21S) continued south of Madagascar today with winds up to 115 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in general area. The antipode is at 24N 145W east of Hawaii. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area of the North Pacific but some enhancement is possible in the area of Hawaii in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 13, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0215 0229 0243 B8.0 (February 14, 2026) 1.2E-03 *
Vanuatu M 6.5 02:28 UT
6820 0126 0131 0135 B7.7 (February 13, 2026) 4.1E-04
Minahasa, Sulawesi M 2.7 01:32 UT
Montana M 3.7 01:36 UT
6840 0742 0750 0805 B8.0 (February 13, 2026) 9.9E-04
6850 0828 0858 0920 M1.0 (February 13, 2026) 1.9E-02
Minahasa, Sulawesi M 4.7 08:59 UT
Iran M 4,3-4.9 10:33-19:50 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled February 14 minor storms February 15-16. Solar M-flare chance: 10% X-class: 5% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 14, high: 15, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 4 Global Kp 4.00 2100-2400 UT February 13; Sunspot Number: 50; Radio Flux: 117
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 13, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong earthquake of M 6.2 hit the region of Coquimbo, Chile today. This was the strongest earthquake in the world on this day.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to VI in Coquimbo at Salamanca; V in La Serena, IV in Vicuna, Coquimbo, and San Juan, Argentina and III in Mendoza, Argentina; in Valparaiso, Chile at Calera, Quilpue, San Felipe, Vina del Mar, Quillota, Valparaiso and as far an Graneros, O'Higgins and Maule, Chile and in Villa Alemana; in Copiapo, Chile
EMSC reported moderate to strong shaking in Chile at Ovalle, Coquimbo, La Serena, Vicuna, La Ligua, Hacienda La Calera, Quillota, Vina del Mar, Limache, Valparaiso, Villa Alemana, Lampa, El Tabo, Chicureo Abajo, Providencia, Santiago, Cartagena, Buin, Nunoa, Copiapo, Talca, Antofagasta, and in Argentina at Las Heras, Mendoza, La Rioja.
The last earthquake in Coquimbo, Chile within about 200 km of today's
epicenter with M>=6.2 occurred as an M 6.2 on September 6, 2023 with the last of significantly larger magnitude an M 6.7 on January 20, 2019.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.7 hit the region of Central Chile near Coquimbo today.
NEIC reported strong shaking with maximum intensity VII in Coquimbo at Coquimbo, La Serena, and Ovalle; VI in Andacollo, Vicuna, Illapel, and IV in areas within about 350 km of the epicenter including Valparaiso at La Ligua, Cabildo and Caleara and in Vallenar, Atacama, Chile.
GUC reported this earthquake of M 6.7 was felt with intensity VIII in Coquimbo at La Serena; VII in Vicuna, VI in La Higuera; IV in Los Vilos; in Atacama with VI in Caldera, Chanaral, Freirinha, Huasco, Vallenar; V in Alto del Carmen, Copiapo, Tierra Amarilla, IV in Caldera, Chanaral, Diego de Almagro, in Valparaiso with V in Calera, Casablanca, La Cruz, Llaillay, Nogales, Olmue, Puchuncavi, Putendo, Quillota, San Felipe, Santa Maria, Valparaiso, VI in Zapallar, IV ini Quilpue, Los Andes, and III in Algarrobo, Cartagena, El Quisco, El Tabo, San Antonio, Santo Domingo; in Santiago with V in El Monte, Padre Hurtado, Penaflor, Puente Alto, San Bernardo, Santiago, Talagante; in O'Higgins with IV in Santa Cruz, San Fernando, Rancagua, Navidad, Mostazal, Litueche, Las Cabras and II-III in Chimbarongo, Graneros, La Estrella, Peralillo, Chile.
It is likely that high tidal stresses associated with the full moon helped
enhance this earthquake at this time. The earthquake occurred near local solar midnight,
a time when tidal stresses are maximized.
...
The last earthquake in the Coquimbo area of central Chile within about 200 km
of today's M 6.7 with M>=6.7 occurred on November 11, 2015 with M 6.9. This was
a regional aftershock about 200 km north of a great M 8.3 in the Coquimbo area which
occurred September 16, 2015." (January 20, 2019)
An aftershock of M 4.3 was reported felt with intensity II in Coquimbo.
This earthquake in Coquimbo may have been promoted by a C1.0 solar flare
which began at the same time as the flare (13:34 UT). Data on this flare from
SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6760 1334 1341 1350 C1.0 (February 12, 2026) 1.0E-03
Coquimbo M 6.2 13:34 UT
O: 13FEB2026 00:58:25 30.7S 71.4W MW=4.3 EMSC COQUIMBO, CHILE
O: 12FEB2026 13:34:30 30.8S 71.4W Mw=6.2 EMSC COQUIMBO, CHILE
O: 12FEB2026 13:47:30 30.8S 71.3W ML=4.1 EMSC COQUIMBO, CHILE
O: 12FEB2026 18:19:26 30.8S 71.4W ML=4.1 EMSC COQUIMBO, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Pakistan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Pakistan in Jocobabad, Sind.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Mehar, Pakistan. This is the strongest earthquake
in Pakistan within about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 5.5 on September 25, 2014.
At the time this summary noted:
"The earthquake of M 5.5-5.7 in Pakistan was lightly felt in the region of Khuzdar. Forecast 82989
had expected this event within about 200 km to occur around September 21. It
is the strongest event in this region since an event of M 7.7 hit this area
a year ago on September 24, 2013 with a major aftershock of M 6.8 on September 28.
Hundreds were killed in that earthquake in Balochistan with hundreds of homes
and businesses destroyed. Like today's event that one was also preceded by
the landfall of a strong storm in southeastern Asia 1-2 days earlier. Storms
such as Fung-Yong can stress regional faults throughout southern Asia leading
to increased seismicity." (September 25, 2014)
This epicenter is near the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Gezani, Mindanao, Honshu and the North
Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by constructive interference of
energy from those sources.
O: 13FEB2026 06:30:22 28.4N 67.3E MB=5.5 EMSC PAKISTAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in Northern Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Montana in Power, Great Falls, Fairfield Black Eagle, Cascade, San Coulee, Fort Shaw, Helena, Malmstrom AFB, and II in Sun River, Clancy,Wolf Creek, Vaughn, East Helena, Dutton, Belt, Polson, and Missoula.
The last earthquake with M>=3.7 in northern Montana within about 150 km of
today's epicenter occurred with M 4.2 on January 29, 2026. This is probably
a regional aftershock of that event. At the time this summary noted:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Montana with V in Sand Coulee; IV in Great Falls, Sun River, Black Eagle, Great Falls, Malmstrom AFB, Fort Shaw, Augusta, Fairfield, Vaughn, Raynesford, Belt and III in Floweree, Hilger, Power, Fort Benton, Dutton, Cascade, Stockett, Geraldine, Choteau, Ovando, Sunburst and in general within about 150 km of the epicenter.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Montana at Malmstrom AFB, Black Eagle, Great Falls, Fairfield, Shelby, Helena, Cut Bank, Ronan, Woods Bay, Bigfork, Orchard Homes, Kalispell, Whitefish and Marion.
EMSC reported an aftershock of M 2.5 in Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Montana at Great Falls.
This epicenter is at 105 degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
Like a number of other earthquakes in the western U.S. this week, this
occurred at a longitude which was sub-solar when the major geomagnetic
storm occurred early this week. It appears much of this seismicity is
related to the sudden commencement of that storm.
There have been no events within about 100 km of today's epicenter with M>4.2
in at least 35 years. The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in western Montana
with M>=4.2 occurred as an M 4.2 on October 19, 2017, an aftershock of an M 5.8
minutes earlier on July 6, 2017. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.8 in western Montana today may have
helped trigger an M 6.2 earthquake in Leyte, Central Philippines about an hour
and-a-half later. The two epicenters area separated by 103 degrees on the earth's
surface. Seismic energy from large events reflects and refracts off core-mantle
boundaries and is redirected to the surface where it concentrates around
103 degrees from the mainshock epicenter. A surge in seismicity in this
distance zone often follows and is thought to be triggered by this energy.
The earthquake in Montana was a near-midnight event and may also have been
triggered by earth tides which are maximized at this hour. The area often
is active in summer months as water becomes more accessible but it has been
some time since a large earthquake hit the area. It is possible that the Yellowstone
Wyoming/Montana swarm of the past month helped set the area up for this large
earthquake which is about 250 km north of that swarm.
The mainshock of M 5.8 was felt throughout the northwestern U.S. and southwestern Canada.
States reporting light to moderate shaking included, Montana, Idaho, Washington, Utah, Wyoming,
Oregon and in Canada, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Light shaking was reported from
up to 800 km from the epicenter at Portland and Beaverton, Bend, The Dalles, Oregon and in Washington at Walla Walla, Prescott, Valley, Metaline Falls, Chewelah, Sprague, Ione, Reardan, Ford, Cusick, Koon Lake, Endicott, Clayton, Medical Lake, Nine Mile Falls, Usk, Fairchile AFB, Deer Park, Cheney, Airway Heights, Spokane, Saint John, Newport, Colbert, Elk, Chattaroy, Clarkston, Colfax, Mead, Valleyford, Veradale, Otis Orchards, Newman Lakes, Fairfield, Pullman, Rockford, Uniontown, Twisp, Wenatchee, Quincy, Omak, Okanogan, Richland, Moses Lake, Keller, Incheliun, Kettle Falls, Prescott, Addy, Colville, Seattle, Lynnwood, Marysville, Auburn, Everett, Bellevue, Shelton, Port Townsend, Brush Prairie, and Yelm.
In Montana the mainshock was felt with intensity VI in Canyon Creek and Lincoln, Montana with possible
light to moderate damage in the epicentral area about 25-30 km from these communities. Intensity IV-V in Montana
included reports from Garrison, Helena, Augusta, Deer Lodge, Ovando, Clancy, East Helena, Bonner, Drummond, Cascade, Boulder, Winston, Anaconda, Seeley Lake, Clinton, Fairfield, Philipsburg, Fort Shaw, Sun River, Missoula, Butte, Townsend, Condon, Vaughn, Choteau, Great Falls, Stockett, Arlee, Stevensville, Power, Divide, Saint Ignatius, Great Falls, Corvallis, Florence, Black Eagle, San Coulee, Frenchtown, White Sulphur Springs, Malmstrom AFB, Dutton, Three Fors, Ronan, Lolo, Victor, Belt, Dixton, Hamilton, Floweree, Bigfork, Wisdom, Huson, Raynesford, Belgrade, Manhattan, Polson, Valier, Highwood, Big Arm, Sheridan, Conner, Dayton, Rollins, Darby, Lakeside, Plains, Kila, Gallatin Gateway, Virginia City, Chester, and within about 200 km of the epicenter. Intensity II-III in Montana was reported from areas up to 350 km from the epicenter including at Billings, Winnett, Joliet, Troy, Roundup, Park City, Creston, Cranbrook,
In Utah it was felt with intensity II-IV in Salt Lake City, and in Idaho at Twin Falls, Preston, Kuna, Meridian, Boise, Gooding, Eagle, Garden City, Fairfield, Garden Valley, Hailey, Arco, Ketchum, Bonners Ferry, Donnelly, Priest River, Oldtown, Blanchard, Rexburg, Spirit Lake, Rathdrum, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Lewiston, Moore, Worley, Sagle, Moscow, Genesee, Potlatch, Coeur D;Alene, Athol, Tensed, Harrison, McCall, Hayden, Saint Anthony, Clark Fork, Saint Maries, Challis, Kendrick, Deary, Kingston, Grangeville, Pinehurst, Nezperce, Island Park, Smelterville, Kellogg, Kamiah, Weippe, Leadore, Mullan, Kooskia, Pierce, Wallace, Orofino, Elk City, Salmon, Carmen, and within about 400 km of the epicenter.
It was also reported felt in Wyoming in Yellowstone National Park, Dubois, among others.
Canada felt the earthquake with intensity II-III with reports from British Columbia at White Rock, Kamloops, Kelowna, Lumby, Golden, Cranbrook, Penticton, Grand Forks, Chilliwack, Castlegar, Trail, Nelson, and Walnut Grove up to 800 km from the epicenter. It was also felt in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; in Alberta at Beaumont, Drumheller, Calgary, Chestermere, Brooks, Medicine Hat, Claresholn, Bow Island, Fort MacLeod, Coalhurst, Coaldale, Lethbridge, Magrath, Cardston.
NEIC reported a number of moderate aftershocks of M 3.9-5.0 in the first several
hours after the mainshock in Montana. These were reported felt with intensity II-III
within about 150 km of the epicenters, in Montana at Helena, Great Falls, Missoula, Manilton, Kalispell, Polson, Whitefish, and in Idaho at Wallace, Coeur D'Alene, Post Falls and Boise among others.
A foreshock of M 2.3 also occurred at the epicenter of the mainshock about a
day earlier. There were no obvious triggers to the foreshock that would have immediately
put the area on alert for a larger event.
The last earthquake with M>=5.8 in western Montana within about 250 km of
today's event occurred on October 28, 1983 with M 7.3 near Challis, Idaho;
in Yellowstone as M 6.1 on June 30, 1975 and as the Hebgen Lake earthquake
of August 18, 1959 of M 7.7. A series of earthquake within about 50 km of today's
epicenters hit the area in October, 1935 with maximum magnitude M 6.3 on October 19, 1935 and October 31, 1935. These followed an M 5.9 foreshock on
October 12, 1935. Given this regional history it appears likely that strong
or moderately strong aftershocks of today's event are likely in the next two weeks.
This summary had noted the damage from these earthquakes 82 years ago as:
"The main earthquake in a series of earthquakes in Montana in 1935. Two were killed
by falling bricks. Damage estimated at $3 million. 300 buildings were damaged
and up to 200 chimneys were destroyed. Severe damage at Helena at the High School,
City Hall, Kessler Brewery and St. Joseph's Orphanage. Tombstones twisted
and overturned. Ground cracks were common especially in allugial material where water flowed from
the cracks. Changes in water flow in wells and springs occurred." (October 19, 2016)
The only other event of M>=5.8 within about 100 km of today's event that has been
recorded occurred on June 28, 1925 with M 6.8 about 100 km southeast of today's epicenter.
The historical account in this summary of this event read:
"This earthquake occurred east of Helena, Montana with violent shaking over 600
square miles over a felt area of about 300,000 square miles with intensity
VIII. The greatest damage occurred at Manhattan where a large schoolhouse
was destroyed. Some reinforeced concrete buildings survived. Many chimneys
fell in all directions. Rockfalls and landslides destroyed sections of railroad
track. At Three Forks similar damage was observed. A church with high unsecured
walls was strongly damaged. Cracks appears in Masonry building however frame
buildings were relatively undamaged. Cracks formed in the roads. Felt throughout
Montana, North Dakota, Washington and Wyoming." (June 28, 2017)
Water is important in promotion of seismicity in this region and the concentration
of many of the important regional historical events towards the end of June or in
early July is probably not coincidental but may be related to regional weather patterns. While regional earthquake activity is expected to be promoted, it is also likely
that changes in groundwater and wells will be noted in the next several days
as occurred in 1935." (July 6, 2017, January 29, 2026)
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from TC Gezani; the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Honshu and 105 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 13FEB2026 01:36:12 47.6N 111.3W ML=3.7 EMSC WESTERN MONTANA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Indian, Anchorage, and Chugiak.
O: 12FEB2026 22:54:45 61.4N 150.0W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Afghanistan with IV in Mazar-e Sharif Balh.
This epicenter is near the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Gezani, Mindanao, Honshu and the North
Geomagnetic Pole and Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive interference of
energy from those sources.
O: 12FEB2026 22:12:31 36.5N 67.6E MB=4.5 EMSC CENTRAL AFGHANISTAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in northern Ryukyu Islands, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Ryukyu Islands, Japan in Okinawa at Ishikawa, Gushikawa, Okinawa, Yomitan, Chatan, Naha and Nago.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in the Ryukyu
Islands with M>=5.5 was an M 5.9 on May 1, 2023.
O: 12FEB2026 21:48:13 25.8N 128.6E MW=5.5 EMSC RYUKYU ISLANDS, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern California in Susanville and Westwood.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
O: 12FEB2026 20:06:22 40.2N 121.2W MD=2.1 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 12FEB2026 20:06:22 40.2N 121.2W MD=2.6 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska in Anchorage, Girdwood, Kenai, Soldotna, Sterling.
O: 12FEB2026 19:51:25 60.7N 150.3W ML=3.6 EMSC KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Guerrero, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guerrero, Mexico in Tlatnepantla.
EMSC reported light shaking in Ciudad de Huitzuco.
O: 12FEB2026 18:33:31 17.7N 98.5W MB=4.4 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.5 also was felt in Guam today. NEIC reported it was
felt with intensity IV in Guam at Talofofo, Dededo; III in Santa Rita, Tamuning, Tinian, Mangilao, Yigo, and II in Asan, Mongmong.
EMSC reported moderate shaking and rumble in Guam at Yigo Village, Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon Village, Mongmong-Toto=Maite, Chalan Pago-Ordot, Inarajan, without damage.
This epicenter was within minutes of local solar noon when the M1.5 solar
flare occurred several hours before and may have been promoted
by effects from that flare. The last earthquake in Guam with M>=5.5 within
about 200 km of this epicenter was an M 5.9 on November 4, 2025. At the
time this summary noted:
The strongest earthquake in the world today outside of Kamchatka was an M 5.9
south of Guam. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Guam at Tamuning, Yigo, Hagatna and Hagatna Heights.
This earthquake may have been triggered by Typhoon Kalmaegi as that storm
passed near Guam on October 31 and November 1, 2025 as noted at the time in this
summary
...
The last earthquake reported in the region of Guam with M>=5.9 occurred on
August 10, 2025 with M 5.9 and also with M 5.9 on June 23, 2020. The last of larger
magnitude within about 200 km of today's epicenter was an M 6.7 on September 17, 2014.
At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake of M 6.6-7.1 hit the region of Guam in the Mariana Islands today.
This is the first of several strong earthquakes expected from the results of the
X-flare and geomagnetic storm of the past five days. But in addition to solar
flare effects (SFE) and geomagnetic induction effects, the area has also been
subject to two major tropical storms in the past week and was situated near maximum
tidal effects from the full moon of September 9. All of these probably played
a triggering role in this earthquake in Guam today, the largest in that region
since events of M 6.6 and 6.9 on August 13 and 14, 2010 and of M 6.7 on May 9, 2008.
Today's event was given M 6.7-7.1 by NEIC which reported it was felt with intensity
V in Guam at Tamuning, Barrigada, Yona, Umatacm, Mangilao, Yigo, Talofofo; IV in Hagatna, Dededo, Santa Rita, Asan, Sinajana and in the Mariana Islands at Gualo Rai and Koblerville, Saipan, and in Tota and Tinian with intensity III-IV.
It was preceded three minutes earlier by an M 5.6 in Vanuatu and followed three minutes later by an M 4.7 in Pakistan in the Hindu Kush region.
As this earthquake was at more than 100 km depth effects on the surface were
mitigated and no major damage or injuries were reported. Due to the depth
no tsunami was generated.
...
A month ago this summary noted the relation between strong earthquakes in Guam
and regional tropical storms as follows:
"Seismicity in the region of Guam is often activated by strong storms
in that region. This results in a tendency for local seismicity to concentrate
in summer months. The largest recent earthquakes in the area occurred in late July,
2011 (M 5.6, 5.6); July and August, 2010 (M 5.5, 5.5). In the past 20 years
128 earthquakes of M>=5.3 have hit near Guam. Of these 45, nearly a third
have occurred in the summer monts of July, August and September while only
about 30 would have been expected by chance." (July 27, 2013, August 13, 2014, November 4, 2025)
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Gezani - a strong
storm near Madagascar and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 12FEB2026 10:30:16 14.0N 144.7E ML=5.5 EMSC GUAM REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI (21S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-13 00:00 UT 21.3S 38.2E 110 kts South of Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani (21S) continued over Madagascar today with winds up to 110 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in the Mozambique Channel. The antipode is at 21N 142W east of Hawaii. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area of the North Pacific but some enhancement is possible in the area of Hawaii in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 12, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6690 0229 0240 0340 M1.5 (February 12, 2026) 1.1E-03 *
Norwegian Sea M 4.1 02:54 UT
Gulf of California M 4.2 03:45 UT
San Francisco M 2.2 03:54 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 03:53 UT
6710 0725 0740 0756 C1.1 (February 12, 2026) 1.9E-03
Argentina M 4.2 07:31 UT
Wyoming M 3.0 07:54 UT
6760 1334 1341 1350 C1.0 (February 12, 2026) 1.0E-03
Coquimbo M 6.2 13:34 UT
Andreanof Is. M 3.9 13:58 UT
Fiji M 5.1 13:52 UT
6770 1620 1636 1657 C1.1 (February 12, 2026) 2.2E-03
Taiwan M 4.7 16:22 UT
Kuril Is. M 5.4 16:45 UT
Argentina M 4.2 16:50 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 13 unsettled February 14 minor storms February 15. Solar M-flare chance: 10% X-class: 5% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 9, high: 18, mid-latitude: 6, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 5 Global Kp 2.67 1200-1500 UT February 12; Sunspot Number: 82; Radio Flux: 129
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 12, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The M1.5 solar flare which began about 02:35 UT on February 12, 2026 is
among the strongest solar flares recorded in the past week. The timing of this
event suggests most likely seismic enhancement near 130-150 degrees east
longitude which incorporates areas of Japan, Guam and Indonesia/New Guinea. These
areas may see seismic enhancement in the next day. Preliminary data for
this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0235 0250 0340 M1.5 (February 12, 2026) 1.1E-03 *
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.5 in Guam. NEIC reported it was
felt with intensity IV in Guam at Talofofo, Dededo; III in Santa Rita, Tamuning, Tinian, Mangilao, Yigo, and II in Asan, Mongmong.
EMSC reported moderate shaking and rumble in Guam at Yigo Village, Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon Village, Mongmong-Toto=Maite, Chalan Pago-Ordot, Inarajan, without damage.
This epicenter was within minutes of local solar noon when the M1.5 solar
flare occurred several hours before (see above) and may have been promoted
by effects from that flare. The last earthquake in Guam with M>=5.5 within
about 200 km of this epicenter was an M 5.9 on November 4, 2025. At the
time this summary noted:
The strongest earthquake in the world today outside of Kamchatka was an M 5.9
south of Guam. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Guam at Tamuning, Yigo, Hagatna and Hagatna Heights.
This earthquake may have been triggered by Typhoon Kalmaegi as that storm
passed near Guam on October 31 and November 1, 2025 as noted at the time in this
summary
...
The last earthquake reported in the region of Guam with M>=5.9 occurred on
August 10, 2025 with M 5.9 and also with M 5.9 on June 23, 2020. The last of larger
magnitude within about 200 km of today's epicenter was an M 6.7 on September 17, 2014.
At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake of M 6.6-7.1 hit the region of Guam in the Mariana Islands today.
This is the first of several strong earthquakes expected from the results of the
X-flare and geomagnetic storm of the past five days. But in addition to solar
flare effects (SFE) and geomagnetic induction effects, the area has also been
subject to two major tropical storms in the past week and was situated near maximum
tidal effects from the full moon of September 9. All of these probably played
a triggering role in this earthquake in Guam today, the largest in that region
since events of M 6.6 and 6.9 on August 13 and 14, 2010 and of M 6.7 on May 9, 2008.
Today's event was given M 6.7-7.1 by NEIC which reported it was felt with intensity
V in Guam at Tamuning, Barrigada, Yona, Umatacm, Mangilao, Yigo, Talofofo; IV in Hagatna, Dededo, Santa Rita, Asan, Sinajana and in the Mariana Islands at Gualo Rai and Koblerville, Saipan, and in Tota and Tinian with intensity III-IV.
It was preceded three minutes earlier by an M 5.6 in Vanuatu and followed three minutes later by an M 4.7 in Pakistan in the Hindu Kush region.
As this earthquake was at more than 100 km depth effects on the surface were
mitigated and no major damage or injuries were reported. Due to the depth
no tsunami was generated.
...
A month ago this summary noted the relation between strong earthquakes in Guam
and regional tropical storms as follows:
"Seismicity in the region of Guam is often activated by strong storms
in that region. This results in a tendency for local seismicity to concentrate
in summer months. The largest recent earthquakes in the area occurred in late July,
2011 (M 5.6, 5.6); July and August, 2010 (M 5.5, 5.5). In the past 20 years
128 earthquakes of M>=5.3 have hit near Guam. Of these 45, nearly a third
have occurred in the summer monts of July, August and September while only
about 30 would have been expected by chance." (July 27, 2013, August 13, 2014, November 4, 2025)
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Gezani - a strong
storm near Madagascar and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 12FEB2026 10:30:16 14.0N 144.7E ML=5.5 EMSC GUAM REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Southern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Chile with III in Ancud, Los Lagos.
O: 12FEB2026 04:04:36 41.7S 73.9W ML=3.3 EMSC OFFSHORE LOS LAGOS, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in South Carolina was widely felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of South Carolina with III in Charleston, Eutawville, North Charleston, Ladson, Columbia and in Savannah, Georgia.
EMSC reported a small shake and loud rumble at Centerville, South Carolina.
This is the strongest earthquake in a recent series of minor quakes in this
area. The last event within about 100 km of this epicenter with M>=2.5
occurred on February 8, 2026 with M 2.9 and prior to that as an M 2.5 on
July 24, 2023 - an event that also occurred in conjunction with an M 5.6 in
the Mariana Islands near Guam (as with today's - see above). The last of larger
magnitude was an M 3.3 on Septembrer 27, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"A light earthquake of M 3.3 was widely felt in South Carolina today. NEIC reported maximum intensity VI in South Carolina at Summerville, Lasson and North Charleston with II-III shaking in Charleston, Goose Creek, Johns Island, Saint George, Walterboro, Sumter, Tybee. It was also reported lightly felt in Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia and Florida among others.
A foreshock of M 2.8 was felt with intensity II-III in South Carolina at Summerville, Ladson, North Charleston, Ridgeville, Charleston, Goose Creek, Moncks Corner.
This activity may be related to Hurricane Teresa which has been lingering
off the east coast of the Carolinas for the past several days as noted in previous issues of this summary:
"TS Teresa formed today in the area east of North Carolina with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the north over the next day and stay in the central Atlantic." (September 24-26, 2021)
This system is currently off the coast of South and North Carolina at 35N 60W.
The M 7.7 in Charleston, South Carolina of August 31, 1886 followed a great
earthquake in southern Greece several days earlier and has been suggested
on several occasions in this and other reports (even at the time of that quake) to have been a far-field
aftershock of the M 8.4 in Greece as noted in the history section of this summary:
"The Charleston, South Carolina earthquake. This earthquake was preceded by four days of small foreshocks which began immediately after an M 8.4 in central Greece. That earthquake may have disturbed the groundwater sufficiently to lubricate the fault responsible for the for the Charleston quakes ultimately triggering the strong event." (August 31, 2021)
Today's activity may also have been related to the M 6.0 in Crete several hours earlier.
The M 3.3 today is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter
since an M 3.6 on December 16, 2008." (September 27, 2021)
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from Taiwan and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 12FEB2026 02:00:26 32.9N 80.2W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTH CAROLINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco, California with III in Sunol, Pleasanton and II in Dublin, Morgan Hill, Union City and Livermore and San Ramon.
O: 12FEB2026 01:53:47 37.6N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 12FEB2026 03:54:22 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
A notable series of light to moderate earthquakes began early on UT February 11, 2026
in the Baja California region south of the California border. The largest at this writing was an M 4.2.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in California at Brawley and in Mexicali Baja, California, Mexico. Intensity III was reported from Baja California at Guadalupe Victoria, and Delta and Puebla with similar shaking in Yuna, Arizona, and Heber, California. Intensity II was reported in Southern California at Imperial, El Centro, Calexico and San Diego.
This series appears to have been short-lived lasting only during the
geomagnetic excursion. These earthquakes in Baja California began near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by a moderate
solar flare with the following preliminary parameters from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0835 0850 0900 C1.5 (February 11, 2026) 1.2E-03
These epicenters are located at 102 degrees from Taiwan and may have been
promoted by energy from that source. They are also near the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic Pole.
O: 11FEB2026 08:37:09 32.4N 115.3W ML=2.5 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 08:38:34 32.4N 115.3W ML=4.2 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 08:40:36 32.4N 115.3W ML=3.6 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 08:43:12 32.4N 115.3W ML=2.9 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 08:56:40 32.4N 115.3W ML=3.9 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 09:01:13 32.4N 115.3W ML=2.8 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 09:07:10 32.4N 115.3W ML=2.1 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 09:12:18 32.4N 115.3W ML=2.2 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11FEB2026 09:14:56 32.4N 115.3W ML=3.0 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in Northern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Alaska with III in North Pole, Fairbanks and II in Fort Wainwright, Eielson, Delta Junction.
O: 11FEB2026 23:48:55 65.0N 146.4W ML=3.7 EMSC NORTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Oklahoma was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oklahoma in El Reno.
O: 12FEB2026 04:24:36 34.3N 97.6W ML=2.0 EMSC OKLAHOMA
O: 11FEB2026 11:33:40 35.6N 98.0W ML=2.2 EMSC OKLAHOMA
O: 11FEB2026 14:48:10 35.6N 98.0W ML=2.1 EMSC OKLAHOMA
O: 11FEB2026 22:03:28 35.6N 98.0W ML=2.8 EMSC OKLAHOMA
O: 12FEB2026 02:06:38 35.6N 98.0W ML=2.2 EMSC OKLAHOMA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Kuril Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kuril Islands with III in Kurilsk, Sakhalin, Russia.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Shikotan, Russia.
O: 11FEB2026 18:00:28 44.3N 147.5E MB=5.1 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.3 off the coast of northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern California with III in Eureka and II in Petrolia and Fortuna.
O: 11FEB2026 17:00:37 40.3N 124.7W ML=3.0 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 12FEB2026 01:39:08 40.4N 125.4W ML=3.3 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 13:00:32 40.6N 124.2W MD=2.0 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California in Brawley.
O: 11FEB2026 16:55:50 33.0N 115.5W ML=2.6 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 14:16:39 33.0N 115.5W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Salinas, Hollister.
EMSC reported a hard shake in Hollister, California.
O: 11FEB2026 12:55:09 36.5N 121.1W MD=2.4 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 11:30:32 36.8N 121.4W ML=2.5 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 11:34:54 36.8N 121.4W ML=3.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 11:34:54 36.8N 121.4W ML=3.5 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 11:37:52 36.8N 121.4W ML=2.5 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 11FEB2026 11:39:27 36.8N 121.4W MD=2.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Argentina in Antofagasta, Chile.
O: 11FEB2026 14:58:05 23.4S 66.7W ML=4.4 EMSC JUJUY, ARGENTINA
O: 12FEB2026 07:31:23 23.7S 66.9W ML=4.2 EMSC JUJUY, ARGENTINA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI (21S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-12 00:00 UT 19.7S 42.2E 65 kts Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani (21S) continued over Madagascar today with winds up to 65 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in the Mozambique Channel. The antipode is at 20N 138W east of Hawaii. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days. Gezani is then expected to reverse direction around February 15 and track back into the Indian Ocean possibly bringing it to an area antipodal to southern California next week.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 11, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0235 0250 0340 M1.5 (February 12, 2026) 1.1E-03 *
Norwegian Sea M 4.1 02:54 UT
Gulf of California M 4.2 03:45 UT
San Francisco M 2.2 03:54 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 03:53 UT
6320 0029 0044 0050 M1.1 (February 11, 2026) 1.5E-02
6380 0253 0301 0313 C2.6 (February 11, 2026) 3.0E-03
Papua M 3.9 03:07 UT
Mayotte M 3.0 02:53 UT
6410 0519 0527 0533 C2.0 (February 11, 2026) 1.7E-03
6450 0719 0725 0727 C2.3 (February 11, 2026) 1.0E-03
So. Island, New Zealand M 4.1 07:19 UT
6480 1008 1016 1022 C1.7 (February 11, 2026) 1.4E-03
Gulf of California M 4.1 10:30 UT
6510 1247 1312 1325 M1.4 (February 11, 2026) 1.9E-02
Solomon Is. M 4.6 13:04 UT
Central California M 2.4 12:66 UT
6580 1753 1804 1814 C1.8 (February 11, 2026) 2.3E-03
Kuril Is. M 5.1 18:00 UT
Guerrero M 4.1 18:08 UT
6590 1902 1907 1911 C2.0 (February 11, 2026) 1.2E-03
Malay Peninsula M 3.2 19:07 UT
6600 1943 1948 1952 C3.1 (February 11, 2026) 1.4E-03
Guerrero M 3.5 19:44 UT
6640 2116 2122 2126 C1.3 (February 11, 2026) 7.8E-04
New Guinea M 4.0 21:30 UT
6660 2323 2329 2335 C3.1 (February 11, 2026) 2.0E-03
The M1.5 solar flare which began about 02:35 UT on February 12, 2026 is
among the strongest solar flares recorded in the past week. The timing of this
event suggests most likely seismic enhancement near 130-145 degrees east
longitude which incorporates areas of Japan and Indonesia/New Guinea. These
areas may see seismic enhancement in the next day.
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 12-13 unsettled February 14. Solar M-flare chance: 10% X-class: 5% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 18, high: 24, mid-latitude: 13, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 5 Global Kp 4.00 2100-2400 UT February 11; Sunspot Number: 84; Radio Flux: 129
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 11, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate geomagnetic storm appears to have begun early on February 11, 2026. GOES-8 magnetometers
show a strong increase in geomagnetic field beginning around 08:46 UT and doubling
in the next 15 minutes. This could have sparked a swarm of earthquakes in Baja California, Mexico
that began about the same time. Astrong drop in geomagnetic field strength
occurred starting around 20:30 UT on October 10. This was accompanied by
a sharp global seismic enhancement for the 20 minutes of this geomagnetic excursion.
Events in this period which may have been promoted by this sharp change
in geomagnetic field strength included an M 5.6 in Tonga, felt with intensity IV
in the epicentral area; an earthquake of M 4.5 in Kosovo felt with maximum
intensity V; an M 5.0 in the Dominican Republic felt with intensity up to IV;
an M 6.2 in Fiji, likely felt with intensity III and an M 4.6 in southern Alaska
near Anchorage felt with intensity up to IV.
A notable series of light to moderate earthquakes began early on UT February 11, 2026
in the Baja California region south of the California border. The largest at this writing was an M 4.2.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in California at Brawley and in Mexicali Baja, California, Mexico. Intensity III was reported from Baja California at Guadalupe Victoria, and Delta and Puebla with similar shaking in Yuna, Arizona, and Heber, California. Intensity II was reported in Southern California at Imperial, El Centro, Calexico and San Diego.
This series appears to have been short-lived lasting only during the
geomagnetic excursion. These earthquakes in Baja California began near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by a moderate
solar flare with the following preliminary parameters from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0835 0850 0900 C1.5 (February 11, 2026) 1.2E-03
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.0 in the
Andreanof Islands, Alaska. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II near
Adak, Alaska. This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may
have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
O: 10FEB2026 23:09:08 52.4N 175.9W MB=5.0 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.2 in Fiji. NEIC reported
it was likely felt with intensityup to III in the epicentral area.
O: 10FEB2026 20:44:53 21.1S 178.3W MW=6.2 EMSC FIJI REGION
O: 11FEB2026 03:32:16 21.5S 178.0W mb=4.6 EMSC FIJI REGION
An earthquake of M 4.6 was widely felt near Anchorage, Southern Alaska today.
NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in Matanuska-Susitna Borough; III in Willow, Talkeetna, Anchorage, Eagle River, Chugiak, Girdwood, Wasilla and Elmendorf AFB with II in Fort Richardson, Palmer, and Moose Pass.
EMSC reported light to moderate shaking in southern Alaska at Wasilla, Eagle River, Elmendorf AFB, Anchorage.
O: 10FEB2026 20:42:19 61.7N 149.6W ML=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
n earthquake of M 4.7-5.0 occurred today in the area of the Dominican Republic. It was reported with intensity IV in Mayaguez, and II in Rincon, Puerto Rico.
This continues a series significant earthquakes in the northern Caribbean
over the past several days including an M 5.5 in Cuba, M 5.0 in Jamaica;
M 4.4 in St Kitts and an M 4.4 and highly energetic swarm in the Virgin Islands.
In previous issues of this summary it has been shown that these are directly
related in space and time to the antipode of TC Mitchell off the northern coast
of Australia and were probably triggered by antipodally focused energy
from that storm.
O: 10FEB2026 20:49:09 17.6N 68.0W MB=5.0 EMSC DOMINICAN REPUBLIC REGION
O: 10FEB2026 10:12:53 17.8N 68.5W MD=3.4 EMSC DOMINICAN REPUBLIC REGION
A moderate earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today in Serbia and Kosovo. NEIC reported this event was felt with maximum intensity V in Serbia and Montenegro at Urosevac and Metohija and in Tetovo, Macedonia at Vratnica and Tetovo. Intensity IV was felt in Serbia and Kosovo at Prizren and Polje kosovo and in Saraj, Macedonia with III in Serbia dn Montenegro at Podujevo, Pristina and Djakovica.
EMSC reported moderat to strong shaking in Kosovo at Strpce, Prizren, and in North Macedonia at Prsovce, Slatino, Dobroste, Neraste, Vratnica, Sipkovica, Dzepciste, Selce, Tetovo, among others and it was felt as far as 300 km in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Serbia, Albania, Greece, Montenegro.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Southern Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Argentina with III in Elcalafe, Santa Cruz.
O: 10FEB2026 21:05:28 42.1N 21.0E MW=4.5 EMSC KOSOVO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in the Sea of Okhotsk, Russia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Sea of Okhotsk, Russia.
EMSC reported light shaking in Magadan, Russia.
O: 11FEB2026 06:29:51 57.9N 146.6E MB=5.6 EMSC SEA OF OKHOTSK
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in northern Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Colombia in the Bucaramanga area at Envigado, Antioquia.
EMSC reported a rapid strong jolt in Colombia at Floridablanca.
O: 11FEB2026 05:59:40 6.7N 73.0W MB=4.8 EMSC NORTHERN COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in western Texas was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of western Texas with III in Stanton.
O: 10FEB2026 14:32:47 31.5N 104.0W ML=2.7 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 10FEB2026 20:27:18 32.1N 101.9W ML=2.2 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 10FEB2026 20:30:21 32.1N 101.9W ML=2.0 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 10FEB2026 21:36:21 32.1N 101.9W ML=2.9 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 10FEB2026 22:08:52 32.1N 101.9W ML=2.2 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Samoa/Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Samoa/Tonga near Hihifo.
O: 10FEB2026 21:14:43 14.9S 173.0W MW=5.6 EMSC SAMOA ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California at Palmdale.
O: 10FEB2026 08:37:38 35.9N 117.7W ML=2.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 10FEB2026 19:33:13 35.7N 117.8W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10FEB2026 15:20:17 35.4N 117.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in San Francisco Bay, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay, California with III in Walnut Creek and San Ramon and II in Fremont, Brentwood, Danville, Dublin, and San Francisco.
O: 10FEB2026 12:18:58 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in the Southern Atlantic near Tristan Da Cunha was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Southern Atlantic near Tristan Da Cunha.
This epicenter is in the South Atlantic geomagnetic Anomaly and was probably
triggered by solar flare 6210 (C1.4) which began when this epicenter was
within minutes of local solar noon. Data for this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6210 1347 1355 1405 C1.4 (February 10, 2026) 1.5E-03
Tristan Da Cunha M 5.0 13:46 UT
O: 10FEB2026 13:46:27 35.6S 15.4W MB=5.0 EMSC TRISTAN DA CUNHA REGION
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Eastern Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Eastern Turkey in Gorele and Yomra.
O: 10FEB2026 21:38:29 39.7N 38.8E ML=4.1 EMSC EASTERN TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Meghalaya, India was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Meghalaya, India in Shillong, Guwahati, North Guwahati, and in Bangladesh at Paltan and Dhaka.
O: 10FEB2026 11:32:32 25.1N 91.9E ML=4.0 EMSC MEGHALAYA, INDIA REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI (21S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-11 00:00 UT 18.2S 48.3E 85 kts Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani (21S) continued over Madagascar today with winds up to 85 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in the Mozambique Channel. The antipode is at 18N 132W east of Hawaii. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days. Gezani is then expected to reverse direction around February 15 and track back into the Indian Ocean possibly bringing it to an area antipodal to southern California next week.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 10, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0835 0850 0900 C1.5 (February 11, 2026) 1.2E-03
6050 0017 0034 0043 C2.6 (February 10, 2026) 4.1E-03
Chiapas M 4.0 00:37 UT
San Francisco M 2.4 00:28 UT
6060 0043 0048 0052 C2.6 (February 10, 2026) 1.6E-03
6340 0529 0548 0606 C2.3 (February 10, 2026) 4.9E-03
Virgin Is. M 3.4 05:47 UT
Oaxaca M 4.2 05:51 UT
6100 0606 0648 0654 C3.6 (February 10, 2026) 8.7E-03
XXXX 0654 0704 0708 C3.9 (February 10, 2026) 3.0E-03
XXXX 0750 0820 0830 C3.2 (February 10, 2026) 2.3E-03
Jamaica M 5.0 08:18 UT
6190 1257 1306 1315 C2.5 (February 10, 2026) 2.4E-03
Hawaii M 2.3 12:59 UT
Banda Sea M 3.8 13:08 UT
6210 1347 1355 1405 C1.4 (February 10, 2026) 1.5E-03
Tristan Da Cunha M 5.0 13:46 UT
6230 1547 1555 1601 C1.5 (February 10, 2026) 1.3E-03
Kamcatka M 4.5 15:47 UT
6280 1827 1910 1946 C3.2 (February 10, 2026) 1.3E-02
Honshu M 4.9 18:52 UT
Northern California M 2.1 18:51 UT
Southern California M 2.3 19:48 UT
6310 2356 0009 0020 M1.2 (February 10, 2026) 1.1E-02
Oaxaca M 4.1 00:03 UT
Central Californai M 2.2 00:19 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 11-13. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 25% proton storm: 25%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 10, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 11:00 UT; Max AP: 5 Global Kp 4.33 2100-2400 UT February 10; Sunspot Number: 105; Radio Flux: 142
A moderate geomagnetic storm appears to have begun early on February 11, 2026. GOES-8 magnetometers
show a strong increase in geomagnetic field beginning around 08:46 UT and doubling
in the next 15 minutes. This could have sparked a swarm of earthquakes in Baja California, Mexico
that began about the same time. Astrong drop in geomagnetic field strength
occurred starting around 20:30 UT on October 10. This was accompanied by
a sharp global seismic enhancement for the 20 minutes of this geomagnetic excursion.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 10, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquakes in the world today were an M 5.1 in the Azores and an
M 5.0 in Jamaica. The earthquake in Jamaica today continued a series in the Caribbean
over the past three days. These began in the Saint Kitts region with an M 4.6
and migrated to the north and west to a major swarm in the Virgin Islands
yesterday and an M 5.5 in Cuba. This summary has been following these
carefully as they are following the antipodal of a strong Tropical
Cyclone (Mitchell) and are probably being triggered by antipodal focusing
for energy from that storm. The earthquake of M 5.0 in Jamaica is also
consistent with triggering from TC Mitchell. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity
IV in Jaimaica at Port Antonio and Kingston, Saint Andrew and III in Mona, Kingston, Manchioneal, Portland, Ocho Rios, Saint Ann, Constant Spring, and Stony Hill, Saint Andrew and II in Mandeville, Manchester, Jamaica.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Jamaica at Kingston, Constant Spring, Portmore, Oracabessa.
The last earthquake in the region of Jamaica within about 150 km of today's
epicenter and with M>=5 occurred more than 35 years ago. An M 7.2 occurred about 200 km east
of today's epicenter on August 14, 2021.
In previous issues of this summary the earthquakes in Cuba (M 5.5) and the swarm
in the Virgin Islands had been discussed in part as:
"An M 5.5 earthquake in Cuba is being reported at this time early on February 8, 2026.
EMSC reported it was strongly felt in Haiti at Gonaives and Port-au-Prince. This epicenter is near the antipode
of storm TC Mitchell and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
"Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 85 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 66W is in the area of the northern and eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 8, 2026)
This event in Cuba may have been promoted by an M1.3 solar flare which
reached its maximum several minutes before this earthquake in Cuba.
This earthquake occurred at the end of a strong solar flare (#5600 M 1.7). Preliminary
data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5590 1113 1118 1121 M1.8 (February 8, 2026) 5.1E-03
5600 1132 1143 1159 M1.7 (February 8, 2026) 2.0E-02
Cuba M 5.5 12:00 UT
Panama M 3.8 12:02 UT
This earthquake is the strongest in Cuba within about 200 km since an M
5.8 on August 15, 2021 - an aftershock of an M 7.2 on August 14, 2021. ... (Feebruary 9, 2026)
and
"A series of light to moderate earthquakes occurred today in the Virgin Islands.
The strongst of these were M 4.0 and were felt lightly in the Virgin Islands.
Like the earthquake in Cuba (see above) these events are located near the
antipode of Tropical Cyclone Mitchell and were likely promoted by energy
related to that storm.
...
These epicenters are located near the antipode of TC Mitchell. This storm
passed over the antipode of the Virgin Islands on on February 7, 2026 and
had been expected (in this summary) to enhance seismicity in this region
of the Caribbean... " (February 9, 2026)
Today's earthquake in Jamaica may have been promoted by a moderate C3.2 class
solar flare as it occurred within two minutes of the peak output of that flare.
Preliminary data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0750 0820 0830 C3.2 (February 10, 2026) 2.3E-03
Jamaica M 5.0 08:18 UT
In addition to being nearly antipodal to TC Mitchel this epicenter is also at
146 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10FEB2026 08:18:17 18.2N 75.5W ML=5.0 EMSC JAMAICA
The swarm in the Virgin Islands settled down a bit today but several events of M>=3.5 and an M 4.0 continued in the region.
NEIC reported these events were felt with IV in Road Town Tortola, Bristish Virgin Islands and in the U.S. Virgin Ilsnads with intensity II-III in Saint John and Saint Thomas.
An M 4.4-4.5 also occurred today in the Virgin Islands near Cruz Bay and was reported felt
with intensity III in the same area as the M 4.0. The M 4.5 in the Virgin Islands
is the strongest earthquake in that region since an M 5.6 on May 4, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the western Hemisphere today was an M 5.6 in the Virgin Islands, Caribbean. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Puerto Rico at Mayaguez and Santa Isabel and IV in Morovis, Arroyo, Fajardo, San Lorenzo, Bayamon, Trujillo Alto, and in the U.S. Virgin Islands at Saint Thomas, Christiansted, Saint John and in the British Virgin Islands in Road Town, as well as in Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda and Simpson Bay, Netherlands Antilles. Intensity III was also felt in the regions of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Netherland Antilles, and as far as Venezuela and in general within about 200 km of the epicenter.
EMSC reported strong shaking in the British Virgin Islands at Virgin Gorda, in French Saint Martin; East End (U.S. Virgin Islands) and in Puerto Rico.
This epicenter is near 135 degrees (node 8) from recent strong earthquakes in Myanmar;
Macquarie Islands and the South Geomagnetic Pole where strong effects from
the current geomagnetic storm continued today. It is also near the fifth node
(72 degrees) from the Drake Passage quake of May 2. Other earthquakes
today at this distance from the Drake Passage included a series in the Kermadec
Islands and northern New Zealand (See below). It occurred near local solar midnight when
the geomagnetic storm reach Kp values near 6 with high latitude A for the day
at severe storm levels of 5.1. These effects probably helped promote this
earthquake in the Virgin Islands at this time.
...
The last earthquake in the Virgin Islands with M>=5.6 occurred on December 9, 2023 with M 5.7
but the last earthquake in the area within about 200 km of today's epicenter in the Virgin
Islands was an M 6.0 on October 11, 2008. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.7 in the U.S. Virgin Islands. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to V in Cruz Bay, V.I. It occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal stresses which maximize near this hour.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in the British Virgin Islands in West End; in Puerto Rico at Fajardo, Pitahaya, Trujillo Alto, San Juan, Guaynabo, Jagueyes, Levittown, Toa Alta, Barahona, Las Ochenta.
The last earthquake in the Virgin Islands within about 200 km of today's epicenter
with M>=5.7 occurred on October 11, 2008 with M 6.1 and prior to that as an M 5.9-6.0 on October 17, 2001." December 10, 2023, May 4, 2025)
These epicenters are located near the antipode of TC Mitchell. This storm
passed over the antipode of the Virgin Islands on on February 7, 2026 and
had been expected (in this summary) to enhance seismicity in this region
of the Caribbean as noted in previous issues of this summary:
"TC MITCHELL 2026-02-07 00:00 UT 19.4N 117.6E 80 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 80 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 19N 62W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 6-7, 2026)
O: 09FEB2026 15:32:43 18.6N 64.6W MD=4.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 13:56:26 18.9N 64.4W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 19:58:39 18.9N 64.5W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 14:02:46 19.0N 64.4W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 09:50:47 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.9 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 10:30:02 19.1N 64.6W ML=4.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 10:35:26 19.1N 64.5W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 10:56:09 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 12:08:53 19.1N 64.4W ML=3.9 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 12:14:56 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 13:36:28 19.1N 64.5W mb=4.5 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 14:05:16 19.1N 64.3W MD=3.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 17:07:16 19.1N 64.5W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 09:30:38 19.2N 64.4W MD=4.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 13:41:25 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 13:43:14 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 13:45:08 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 10FEB2026 02:35:04 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Greece was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Greece in the Dodecanese Islands with III in Aghios Nikolaos, Nisia, Aigaiou, Crete.
O: 10FEB2026 04:34:58 36.0N 25.9E MB=4.0 EMSC DODECANESE ISLANDS, GREECE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.3 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California in Glenbrook, Nevada.
O: 10FEB2026 04:18:03 39.8N 122.8W ML=3.1 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in San Francisco Bay area, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay area, California with II in Berkeley, Bolinas and San Francisco.
O: 10FEB2026 00:28:24 37.8N 122.7W MD=2.4 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in the Caucasus, Russia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Caucasus, Russia at Krasnodar.
EMSC reported moderate to strong shaking in the Caucasus, Russia at Rayevskaya, Sukko, Verkhnebakanskiy, Gayduk, Anapskaya, Abrau-Dyurso, Anapa, Novorossiysk, Tsemdolina, Gostagayevskkaya, Myskhako, Tsibanobalka, among others.
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu and Kamchatka and at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from TC Mitchell and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09FEB2026 23:21:03 44.8N 37.5E MW=4.8 EMSC CAUCASUS REGION, RUSSIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the Azores, Portugal was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Azores, Portugal in the area of Santa Cruz das Flores.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 09FEB2026 22:31:58 39.8N 29.6W MW=5.1 EMSC AZORES ISLANDS, PORTUGAL
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Oklahoma was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oklahoma with IV in Calumet and Oklahoma City (III).
O: 09FEB2026 07:45:51 35.6N 98.0W ML=2.2 EMSC OKLAHOMA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE MITCHELL
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC MITCHELL 2026-02-10 00:00 UT 23.1S 108.6E 50 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 50 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 73W is in the area of the northern and eastern Caribbean including Jamaica and Cuba. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI (21S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-10 00:00 UT 18.2S 52.1E 110 kts East of Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani (21S) continued east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean today with winds up to 110 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in Indian Ocean ridge systems and the Mozambique Channel. The antipode is at 18N 128W southwest of the Gulf of California. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 9, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0017 0034 0043 C2.6 (February 10, 2026) 2.2E-03
Chiapas M 4.0 00:37 UT
San Francisco M 2.4 00:28 UT
XXXX 0043 0048 0052 C2.5 (February 10, 2026) 2.2E-03
XXXX 0529 0548 0606 C2.3 (February 10, 2026) 2.1E-03
Virgin Is. M 3.4 05:47 UT
Oaxaca M 4.2 05:51 UT
XXXX 0606 0648 0654 C3.6 (February 10, 2026) 2.5E-03
XXXX 0654 0704 0708 C3.9 (February 10, 2026) 3.0E-03
XXXX 0750 0820 0830 C3.2 (February 10, 2026) 2.3E-03
Jamaica M 5.0 08:18 UT
5770 0009 0013 0015 C7.4 (February 9, 2026) 3.3E-03
Virgin Is. M 3.4 00:09 UT
5790 0141 0148 0151 C2.9 (February 9, 2026) 2.5E-03
5810 0151 0157 0200 C4.2 (February 9, 2026) 2.3E-03
5800 0214 0227 0248 M2.8 (February 9, 2026) 3.4E-02
Kodiak Alaska M 3.9 02:17 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 02:26 UT
Java M 3.4 02:17 UT
5830 0806 0816 0832 C8.2 (February 9, 2026) 1.2E-02
5840 0832 0836 0842 C6.6 (February 9, 2026) 4.5E-03
5900 1334 1348 1355 C4.0 (February 9, 2026) 4.2E-03
5930 1511 1520 1528 C2.7 (February 9, 2026) 2.5E-03
5970 1801 1817 1822 C3.0 (February 9, 2026) 2.9E-03
6020 2253 2302 2304 C9.2 (February 9, 2026) 2.8E-03
6030 2347 2359 0017 C2.6 (February 9, 2026) 4.6E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled February 10 quiet February 11-12. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 25% proton storm: 25%
AP Indicies: global: 7, high: 5, mid-latitude: 5, time of max AP: 15:00 UT; Max AP: 3 Global Kp 2.67 0000-0300 UT February 9; Sunspot Number: 107; Radio Flux: 144
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 9, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.7 event in Oaxaca,
Mexico. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Oaxaca t Puerto Escondido, Santa Lucia del Camino and III in Oaxaca at Oaxaca, Zadani, Pochutla, Pinotepa Nacional and Atzompa and in Veracruz at Playa Viente, Tierra Blanca, and Cordoba.
EMSC reported it was strongly felt in Oaxaca, Mexico in Birsas de Zicatela, San Bernardino, Colonia Libertad, Puerto Escondido, La Barra de Colotepec, San Miguel Figueroa, Crucecita, Santa Ana del Valle, Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca, Chilpancingo, Veracruz, Santiago Momoxpan, Huamantla, Apizaco, Ejido la Venta Cuautlalpan, Xochimilco, Texcoco de Mora, Coyoaca, Venustiano Carranza, Cuauhtemoc, Polanco, Gustavo Adolfo Madero, Mesa de los Leones, Nicolas R. Casillas, San Jose del Valle.
This earthquake occurred near local solar noon and was probably promoted
by strong geomagnetic changes which maximize near this hour.
This is the strongest earthquake in Oaxaca, Mexico within about 200 km of this
epicenter since an M 5.8 on August 2, 2025. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.8 also hit the area of Chiapas and Oaxaca, Mexico today. NEIC reported intensity IV in Oaxaca at Cuilapam, Etla, wit III in Huajuapan, Mexico City, Naucalpan, Concordia, and II in Morelos, Cuernavac, Tlalnepantla.
EMSC reported strong Shaking in Oaxaca, Mexico at Santa Ana del Valle, Brisas de Zicatela, San Luis Acatlan, San Bernardino Tlaxcalancingo, San Matias, Ciudad de Huitzuco, Ixtapaluca, Fraccionamiento Lomas de Ahuarlan, Coyoacan, Alvaro Obregon, Santa Rosa, and Azcapotzalco and Mexico City.
A foreshock earlier in the day of M 4.3 was also felt in Oaxaca, Mexico.
This epicenter is located near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka
and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the M 7.3 in the Alaska Peninsula or July 16
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
This event occurred at the beginning of the strongest solar flare in several
days - a C3.1 (#950). It may have been promoted by SFE from that flare." (August 2, 2025)
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 21:42:10 16.2N 96.6W ML=5.7 EMSC OAXACA, MEXICO
A series of light earthquakes occurred today in the area of Los Angeles, California
These events of M 2.2, 2.5 and 2.8 were located in the valleys west of Los Angeles.
NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity III in the Los
Angeles area in Canyon Country, Simi Valley, Newhall, Stevenson Ranch, Valencia, Santa Clarita and II in Los Angeles, Glendale, Castaic, Santa Fe Springs, Porter Ranch.
The M 2.2 in eastern Los Angeles was felt and heard in Muscoy, California.
These events occurred 55 years within a day after the strong San Fernando earthquake
of February 9, 1971 and at the same epicenter. Readers may be interested to
note that this is the fifth solar cycle (11X5=55 years) since 1971. Data published in this
summary for that event follow:
2 9 14 0 55 1971 34.400 -118.434 9 6.7 So. California
The San Fernando earthquake. Maximum intensity VI when the Olive View Hospital was destroyed. 58 killed of which 49 were at the San Fernando Veterans Ad. Hospital. More than 2,000 injured. Damage estimated at more than $500 millioin. The near-failure of the Lower Van Norman Dam caused evacuation of thousands. Electrical and utilities were completely disrupted. Ground faulting was observed in the San Fernando area and landslides were common. Highway overpasses, railroads, pipelines were severely damaged by slides. Roads were blocked by rockfalls.
This area was directly at local solar midnight when the largest solar flare
of the past day occurred peaking several minutes before these earthquakes
began. Preliminary data for this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5560 0732 0746 0757 C6.1 (February 8, 2026) 8.0E-03
Los Angeles CA, M 2.3, 2.2, 2.2, 2.7 08:11-08:39 UT
This may also be related to a cancelled forecast for enhanced seismicity
in the region published in this summary last week as:
"Tropical cyclone Fytia formed west of Madagascar with winds up to 100 kts today. The antipode at 15N 138W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 5-7, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event in southern California around that time in that area.
A bomb cyclone is forming off the east coast of the U.S. This storm is expected to turn into a strong nor'easter
passing over Massachusetts and the U.S. northeast in the next several days.
Nor'easters of this type often see associated enhanced seismicity along the
western border of North America and the various tectonic plates to the west
including the Juan de Fuca and the Pacific plates. Some of the strongest
recent earthquakes along these borders recently have occurred as a nor'easter
was striking the east coast of the U.S. The area is therefore being placed
under seismic alert for the first week of February, 2026 by this summary.
A seismic alert suggests that conditions may be suitable for a moderate to
strong earthquake in the area in the time period in question and that residents
should update their earthquake preparedness and watch for further updates accordingly." (February 1, 2026)
The last earthquake in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles area with M>=2.7
was an M 2.7 on December 27, 2025 and prior to that an M 2.9 on July 23, 2025.
The last significant earthquakes in the area were an M 3.7 on February 15, 2025 and an M 4.1 on March 9, 2025 to the west
of today's epicenter and an M 3.8 on March 3, 2025 south of today's epicenter.
Some of these may have been promoted by solar flare 5560 (C6.1) which was
finishing up when these events occurred. Data on this flare from SWPC follow:
This epicenter is at 105 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 08:37:58 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.2 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
O: 08FEB2026 08:38:57 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.5 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.
O: 08FEB2026 08:39:47 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.8 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.
O: 09FEB2026 03:19:12 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.0 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.
An M 5.5 earthquake in Cuba is being reported at this time early on February 8, 2026.
EMSC reported it was strongly felt i Haiti at Gonaives and Port-au-Prince. This epicenter is near the antipode
of storm TC Mitchell and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
"Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 85 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 66W is in the area of the northern and eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 8, 2026)
This event in Cuba may have been promoted by an M1.3 solar flare which
reached its maximum several minutes before this earthquake in Cuba.
This earthquake occurred at the end of a strong solar flare (#5600 M 1.7). Preliminary
data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5590 1113 1118 1121 M1.8 (February 8, 2026) 5.1E-03
5600 1132 1143 1159 M1.7 (February 8, 2026) 2.0E-02
Cuba M 5.5 12:00 UT
Panama M 3.8 12:02 UT
This earthquake is the strongest in Cuba within about 200 km since an M
5.8 on August 15, 2021 - an aftershock of an M 7.2 on August 14, 2021. At the
time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake hit the region of Haiti today. This event of M 7.2 was initially
reported to have killed more than 225 people but hundreds more are missing or
injured. The mainshock was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity IV in Haiti
at Saint-Louis-du-Sud, Torbeck, VIII in Asile Grande, Petit-Trou-de-Nippes, Jeremie Grand; VII in Port-au-Prince, VI in Grand-Goave; V in Saint-Marc, Petot-Goave, Cavaillon.
It was reported to have been felt lightly as far as Rhode Island, New Jersey, Maryland, South Carolina, Florida, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Cuba,
A strong M 5.8 aftershock occurred and was felt with intensity IX in Haiti at Chardonnieres; IV in Kenscoff and Kingston and II-III in Petit Goave, Port-au-Prince, Petionville, Port-de=Paix, Haiti and in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba Kingston, Jamaica and Caracas, Venezuela.
Internet photos show damaged and collapsed buildings in Haiti.
The most damage probably occurred in the area of the towns of Les Caves and Jeremie, Petit Trou de Nipes which was
near the epicenter. Many buildings collapsed in the earthquake and hospitals were
overwhelmed. A tsunami warning was issued but later withdrawn. An earthquake of M 7.0
hit Haiti on January, 12, 2010 killing more than 200,000 people and causing massive
dislocation and loss of property and infrastructure. It was followed months
later by a cholera epidemic which killed more than 10,000 and affected nearly
a million people. ...
The only earthquake in historical record in Haiti of M>=7.2 was an M 7.2 in 1887
but the date is not known. A similar event may have occurred with M 7.2 in 1770 and in October 1751.
More recently earthquakes in the region of Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Haiti
occurred north of Puerto Rico with M 7.3 on April 21, 1948; M 8.1 and 7.9 in August, 1946 and
M 7.9 on July 29, 1943. Earthquakes in northern Puerto Rico also occurred in the 1900's on October 11, 1918 with M 7.5 and
with M 7.2 on April 24, 1916. This suggest such event occur in clusters and
more such events in the next several years in the area are likely. (August 14, 2021)
In addition to being nearly antipodal to TC Mitchell, this epicenter is also at 145
degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08FEB2026 12:00:09 19.9N 74.4W MB=5.5 EMSC CUBA
A series of light to moderate earthquakes occurred today in the Virgin Islands.
The strongst of these were M 4.0 and were felt lightly in the Virgin Islands.
Like the earthquake in Cuba (see above) these events are located near the
antipode of Tropical Cyclone Mitchell and were likely promoted by energy
related to that storm.
Many of these events in the Virgin Islands were also closely associated with
moderately strong solar flares as per the following examples from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5770 0009 0013 0015 C7.4 (February 9, 2026) 7.4E-03 *
Virgin Is. M 3.4 00:09 UT
5540 0450 0456 0459 C4.8 (February 8, 2026) 2.5E-03
Virgin Is M 3.4 05:08 UT
5610 1346 1353 1357 M2.7 (February 8, 2026) 9.9E-03
Virgin Is. M 3.5 13:46 UT
5650 1516 1520 1523 C5.6 (February 8, 2026) 2.4E-03
Virgin Is. M 3.3 15:24 UT
5760 2332 2354 0009 C7.4 (February 8, 2026) 1.4E-02
Virgin Is. M 3.7 23:32 UT
Sumba M 3.2 23:32 UT
These epicenters are located near the antipode of TC Mitchell. This storm
passed over the antipode of the Virgin Islands on on February 7, 2026 and
had been expected (in this summary) to enhance seismicity in this region
of the Caribbean as noted in previous issues of this summary:
"TC MITCHELL 2026-02-07 00:00 UT 19.4N 117.6E 80 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 80 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 19N 62W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 6-7, 2026)
O: 08FEB2026 19:47:15 19.0N 64.4W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 01:40:58 19.0N 64.2W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 13:32:42 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 19:55:40 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.9 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 20:12:39 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.6 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 22:10:45 19.1N 64.3W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 22:16:14 19.1N 64.3W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 00:18:16 19.1N 64.3W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 01:27:27 19.1N 64.3W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 02:28:28 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 03:09:49 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 03:27:52 19.1N 64.3W MD=3.9 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 09:50:47 19.1N 64.4W MD=3.9 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 10:30:02 19.1N 64.6W ML=4.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 10:35:26 19.1N 64.5W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 13:18:34 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.8 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 13:45:43 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.5 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 14:52:54 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 15:24:15 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 18:02:15 19.2N 64.4W MD=4.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 18:18:24 19.2N 64.3W MD=3.5 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 20:43:00 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.8 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 20:47:53 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 21:00:10 19.2N 64.3W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 21:18:40 19.2N 64.4W MD=3.8 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 22:36:57 19.2N 64.3W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 00:46:53 19.2N 64.3W MD=3.1 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 09:30:38 19.2N 64.4W MD=4.0 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 21:11:18 19.3N 64.3W MD=3.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 23:31:35 19.3N 64.2W MD=3.7 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 00:33:03 19.3N 64.5W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 08FEB2026 20:34:13 19.4N 64.4W MD=3.7 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 09FEB2026 00:09:50 19.4N 64.3W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
A series of light to moderate earthquakes shook the Kodiak Island region in southern
Alaska today. The largest of these was an M 4.4. Aftershocks included several of M 3.8 and M 3.9 were reported
by NEIC to have been lightly felt in the epicentral area near Akhiok, Alaska.
These events occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
The initial M 4.4 occurred at the end of solar flare 5730.
A moderate aftershock of M 3.9 occurred with flare 5800 (M2.8) as that
flare was initially observed. Data on this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5730 2005 2005 2044 SF (February 8, 2026) ERU *
5800 0214 0227 0310 M2.8 (February 9, 2026) 3.4E-02 *
Vancouver M 4.3 03:58 UT
Kodiak Alaska M 3.9 02:17 UT
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 20:36:11 56.0N 153.4W ML=3.8 EMSC KODIAK ISLAND REGION, ALASKA
O: 08FEB2026 20:37:45 56.0N 153.3W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 08FEB2026 20:47:42 56.0N 153.3W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 09FEB2026 02:17:56 56.0N 153.3W ML=3.9 EMSC KODIAK ISLAND REGION, ALASKA
O: 09FEB2026 02:24:02 56.0N 153.2W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 08FEB2026 20:45:25 56.1N 153.4W mb=4.4 EMSC KODIAK ISLAND REGION, ALASKA
O: 08FEB2026 15:20:35 55.9N 153.2W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
An M 4.3 also occurred near Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada today.
It was not reported felt in this remote area. This is the strongest earthquake
in this area since an M 5.3 on February 25, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The earthquake Puerto Rico followed an M 5.3 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
which NEIC reported was felt in the area of British Columbia with light intensity II at Victoria, Port Alberni, Sidney aind in Washington State at Forks, Washington.
the Puerto Rico event occurred 11.5 minutes after the quake in British Columbia.
These two epicenters are at the sixth node (60.0 degrees) and the Puerto Rico
quake may have been promoted by energy from British Columbia. The P-wave from
British Columbia would have been at the Puerto Rico epicenter at the time of
that earthquake and probably helped trigger the later event.
This earthquake of M 5.3 is the strongest in the Vancouver Island of British
Columbia since an M 6.5 on September 15, 2024 and an M 5.6 on September 17, 2023.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.5 in the Queen Charlotte Islands area of British Columbia, Canada.
The mainshock was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity up to III in Washington State in Seattle, and in Portland Oregon and possibly as far as California.
A foreshock of M 4.5 occurred 43 minutes before the mainshock but was not reported felt.
No tsunami threat was issued with this earthquake. Aftershocks were reported felt with light intensity in British Columbia, Canada.
This earthquake occurred near the time of the full moon near local solar noon
and was probably promoted by energy associated with strong tidal stresses
as noted in previous issues of this summary:
...
Two other factors probably influenced the timing of the M 6.5 in Vancouver
today. These include landfall of Tropical Cyclone Eight off South Carolina
and an X4.8 solar flare which occurred yesterday." (September 15, 2024)
Like these previous events, today's M 5.3 in Vancouver Island was closely
associated with yesterday's X2.0 solar flare and with a major nor'easter
storm in the northeastern U.S. currently in progress.
A moderately strong aftershock of M 5.4 also occurred today in the Cayman Islands. NEIC reported intensity IV in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands at George Town and West Bay with lesser shaking in Bodden Town and North Side, Cauman Islands.
This is the stronget aftershock to day of the M 7.6 that struck the region on
February 8, 2025. It may have been triggered by newly-formed TC Bianca as noted
below." (February 25, 2025)
Readers may note the combination of factors on February 25, 2025 was not dissimilar to
those today.
The event may have been promoted by an M2.8 solar flare (#5800) which was
finishing about the time this event in Vancouver occurred (see above).
Following is preliminary data from SWPC for this event:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5800 0214 0227 0310 M2.8 (February 9, 2026) 3.4E-02 *
O: 09FEB2026 03:58:52 50.7N 130.6W ML=4.3 EMSC VANCOUVER ISLAND, CANADA REGIO
An earthquake of M 5.7 also occurred in northern Chile today after the quake
in Cuba. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Tarapaca, Chile at Iquique and III in Arica.
The M 5.7 occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted
by geomagnetic effects related to a C5 class solar flare which occurred
at the same time. Data of this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6560 1457 1605 1630 C5.6 (February 8, 2026) 2.4E-03
Chile M 5.7 16:23 UT
The last earthquake with M>=5.7 in northern Chile within about 200 km of this
epicenter occurred as an M 5.7 on May 26, 2025 and prior to that an M 6.1 on January 2, 2025.
Similar conditions existed with the M 5.7 on May 26, 2025 including the timing
at local solar noon and the concurrence with a moderate solar flare. At the time this summary noted:
An moderately strong earthquake of M 5.7-5.8 occurred in the Tarapaca area of northern Chile on May 26.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Tarapaca, Chile at Arica and Iquique; III in Antofagasta, Chile and Tacna, Peru with intensity II in Antofagasta at Calama, and in Arequipa, Peru.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Chile at Iquique, Alto Hospicio, Arica, and in Peru at Pocollay, Cayma.
CSN reported this earthquake was felt with intensity V at Arica and Parinacota at Codpa, Cuya; IV at Arica, San Miguel de Azapa, Pocon Chile, Putre; in Tarapaca with V in Camina; IV in Alto Hospicio, Iquique, Huara, La Tirana, Mamina, Pica, Pisagua, Pozo Almonte, and in Antofagasta with IV in Mejillones and III in Tocopilla. A tsunami was not expected.
A foreshock of M 4.0 occurred about 9 hours earlier and was reported by CSN to
have been felt with intensity III in Chile at Arica and Parinacota at Codpa, Arica and Cuya; in Tarapaca with III in Pisagua and II in Iquique and Alto Hospicio, Chile. No damage.
EMSC reported this event with light shaking in Arica, Chile.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 6.1 on December 6, 2020.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.1 in northern Chile. It was reported with maximum intensity VI in Iquique, Tarapaca and V in Tocopilla, Antofagasta and IV in Calama and Arica, Antofagasta and Arequipa.
GUC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity VI in Tarapaca at Alto Hospicio, Camina, Huara, Iquique, La Tirana, Pica, with V in El Loa, Mamina, Pisagua and Ujina; IV in La Tirana, Pozo Almonte and III in Colchane; Antofagasta with IV in Calama, Quillagua, Tocopilla and III in Maria Elena; IV in Arica and Parinacota at Arica, Codpa, Cuya and III in Pocon Chile and San Miguel de Azapa, Chile.
This continues strong activity in the region over the past week. The last
earthquakes in northern Chile of M>=6.1 occurred on September 11, 2020 and prior to that on November 1, 2018. A major event of M 7.6 hit the area on April 3, 2014 after an M 8.2 to the north on April 1, 2014. Today's event is about 150 km east of those epicenters. This event
occurred within several minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted
by high tidal stresses which maximize at this hour." (December 6, 2020)
Earthquakes of M 6.0-6.1 also occurred in the area within about 300 km of
today's epicenter near local solar noon on December 14, 2020 and local solar midnight on
July 28, 2022.
Today's epicenter was within several minutes of local solar noon when a strong X1.0
solar flare (#5630 M8.9) occurred at 16:39 UT on May 25. It was probably promoted by SFE from that flare.
Data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5630 1618 1630 1636 M8.9 (May 25, 2025) 3.4E-02
Tarapaca M 3.3 16:42 UT
Tarapaca M 5.8 03:50 UT (May 26)" (May 26, 2025)
This epicenter is located at 145 degrees from Honshu, Japan and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 07:25:45 21.4S 68.5W MB=4.2 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
O: 08FEB2026 16:23:57 20.1S 69.0W MB=5.7 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.2 and M 3.7 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California with III in Kelseyville, Clearlake Oaks and II in Middletown, Lower Lake, Santa Cruz, San Rafael, Santa Rosa.
The last earthquake in the Geysers area of northern California with M>=3.7
occurred on January 8, 2026 with M 4.2 and was reported at the time in this summary as:
"An earthquake of M 4.2 occurred at local solar midnight in the Geysers area
of Northern California north of San Francisco today.
This event was discussed in the previous issue of this summary in part as:
"An earthquake of M 4.2 shook regions of northern California in the Geysers area
north of San Francisco today. NEIC reported it was widely felt with intensity up to V in California at Nice;
IV in Middletown; III in Cloverdale, Geyserville, Penngrove, Kelseyville, Calistoga, Clearlake Oaks, Lakeport, Healdsburg and II in Forestville, Petaluma, Ukiah, Clearlake, Saratoga, Fairfield, Napa, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Saint Helena, Cotati, and Yorkville.
This earthquake occurred within several minutes of local solar midnight and
was probably promoted by tidal stresses which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake of M>=4.2 within about 50 km of this epicenter in the
California Geysers area occurred as an M 4.7 on January 2, 2025 more than
a year ago.
...
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Jenna; the seventh
node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka and 101 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (January 8, 2026)
Triggering within minutes of local solar midnight and local solar noon often indicates high levels of regional stress
and can precede stronger regional events." (January 8, 2026)
Today's event in the Geysers area of California of M 3.7 occuured within minutes
of local solar noon and was also probably triggered by geomagnetic and/or
tidal stresses.
O: 08FEB2026 15:11:54 38.8N 122.8W MD=2.2 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 08FEB2026 19:17:45 38.8N 122.8W Mw=3.2 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 08FEB2026 19:17:45 38.8N 122.8W Mw=3.7 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 08FEB2026 19:25:27 38.9N 122.8W ML=3.0 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Northern Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Nevada at Battle Mountain.
O: 08FEB2026 18:49:53 41.2N 116.8W ML=3.5 EMSC NEVADA
GeoNet reported an earthquake in South Island, New Zealand today with the following parameters:
This earthquake occurred near local solar midnight and was likely promoted
by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which tend to maximize near this hour.
O: 07FEB2026 12:09:21 44.8S 167.0E MB=4.2 GEONET Felt with weak intensity in the area south of Te Anau, South Island. 2 reports of felt intensity came from the area east and north of the epicenter including 1 with weak intensity; 0 light; 0 moderate; 0 strong; 0 severe and 1 extreme.
O: 07FEB2026 12:09:21 44.8S 167.0E ML=4.4 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
GeoNet reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Cook Strait, New Zealand today with the following parameters:
This eicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Mitchell and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 14:27:31 40.7S 174.1E MB=4.2 GEONET Felt with moderate intensity in the area of Southern North Island, New Zealand and northern South Island. 124 reports of felt events were made of which 89 reported weak and 32 light intensity with 3 reports of moderate shaking and 0 with strong and 0 severe and 0 with extreme intensity came from the area.
O: 08FEB2026 14:27:31 40.7S 174.1E ML=4.1 EMSC COOK STRAIT, NEW ZEALAND
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in South Africa was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of South Africa in Klerksdorp where it was also heard.
This epicenter is at 103-105 degrees from Honshu, Japan and Mindanao and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08FEB2026 17:10:14 26.9S 26.8E ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTH AFRICA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE MITCHELL
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC MITCHELL 2026-02-09 00:00 UT 23.1S 113.6E 70 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 70 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 67W is in the area of the northern and eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI (21S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-09 00:00 UT 17.9N 55.6E 55 kts East of Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani (21S) continued east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean today with winds up to 55 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in Indian Ocean ridge systems and the Mozambique Channel. The antipode is at 18N 125W southwest of the Gulf of California. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 8, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5770 0009 0013 0015 C7.4 (February 9, 2026) 7.4E-03 *
Virgin Is. M 3.4 00:09 UT
5800 0214 0227 0310 M2.8 (February 9, 2026) 3.4E-02 *
Kodiak Alaska M 3.9 02:17 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 02:26 UT
Java M 3.4 02:17 UT
5540 0450 0456 0459 C4.8 (February 8, 2026) 2.5E-03
Virgin Is M 3.4 05:08 UT
5560 0732 0746 0757 C6.1 (February 8, 2026) 8.0E-03
5590 1113 1118 1121 M1.8 (February 8, 2026) 5.1E-03
5600 1132 1143 1159 M1.7 (February 8, 2026) 2.0E-02
Cuba M 5.5 12:00 UT
Panama M 3.8 12:02 UT
5610 1346 1353 1357 M2.7 (February 8, 2026) 9.9E-03
Virgin Is. M 3.5 13:46 UT
Banda Sea M 3.6 13:52 UT
6560 1457 1605 1630 C5.6 (February 8, 2026) 2.4E-03
No. California M 2.2 15:16 UT
New Britain M 4.9 15:16 UT
Banda Sea M 3.5 15:16 UT
Virgin Is. M 3.3 15:24 UT
Chile M 5.7 16:23 UT
5660 1658 1703 1711 C3.2 (February 8, 2026) 3.0E-03
5670 1712 1738 1753 C8.6 (February 8, 2026) 1.7E-02
Oaxaca M 4.1 17:36 UT
South Africa M 3.6 17:10 UT
5760 2332 2354 0009 C7.4 (February 8, 2026) 1.4E-02
Virgin Is. M 3.7 23:32 UT
Sumba M 3.2 23:32 UT
Kodiak M 2.9 23:55 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active February 9 unsettled February 10 quiet February 11. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 25% proton storm: 25%
AP Indicies: global: 8, high: 6, mid-latitude: 5, time of max AP: 08:00 UT; Max AP: 3 Global Kp 2.67 0000-0300 UT February 8; Sunspot Number: 118; Radio Flux: 167
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 8, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A series of light earthquakes hit the Los Angeles area of California early
on UT day February 8. These included an M 2.3 in eastern Los Angeles
and a swarm of M 2.2, 2.2 and 2.7 in the Valleys west of Los Angeles.
NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity III in the Los
Angeles area in Canyon Country, Simi Valley, Newhall, Stevenson Ranch, Valencia, Santa Clarita and II in Los Angeles, Glendale, Castaic, Santa Fe Springs, Porter Ranch.
These events occurred 55 years within a day after the strong San Fernando earthquake
of February 9, 1971 and at the same epicenter. Readers may be interested to
note that this is the fifth solar cycle (11X5=55 years) since 1971. Data published in this
summary for that event follow:
2 9 14 0 55 1971 34.400 -118.434 9 6.7 So. California
The San Fernando earthquake. Maximum intensity VI when the Olive View Hospital was destroyed. 58 killed of which 49 were at the San Fernando Veterans Ad. Hospital. More than 2,000 injured. Damage estimated at more than $500 millioin. The near-failure of the Lower Van Norman Dam caused evacuation of thousands. Electrical and utilities were completely disrupted. Ground faulting was observed in the San Fernando area and landslides were common. Highway overpasses, railroads, pipelines were severely damaged by slides. Roads were blocked by rockfalls.
This area was directly at local solar midnight when the largest solar flare
of the past day occurred peaking several minutes before these earthquakes
began. Preliminary data for this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0732 0746 0757 C6.1 (February 8, 2026) 8.0E-03
Los Angeles CA, M 2.3, 2.2, 2.2, 2.7 08:11-08:39 UT
This may be related to a cancelled forecast for enhanced seismicity
in the region published in this summary last week as:
"Tropical cyclone Fytia formed west of Madagascar with winds up to 100 kts today. The antipode at 15N 138W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 5-7, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event in southern California around that time in that area.
A bomb cyclone is forming off the east coast of the U.S. This storm is expected to turn into a strong nor'easter
passing over Massachusetts and the U.S. northeast in the next several days.
Nor'easters of this type often see associated enhanced seismicity along the
western border of North America and the various tectonic plates to the west
including the Juan de Fuca and the Pacific plates. Some of the strongest
recent earthquakes along these borders recently have occurred as a nor'easter
was striking the east coast of the U.S. The area is therefore being placed
under seismic alert for the first week of February, 2026 by this summary.
A seismic alert suggests that conditions may be suitable for a moderate to
strong earthquake in the area in the time period in question and that residents
should update their earthquake preparedness and watch for further updates accordingly." (February 1, 2026)
The last earthquake in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles area with M>=2.7
was an M 2.7 on December 27, 2025 and prior to that an M 2.9 on July 23, 2025.
The last significant earthquakes in the area were an M 3.7 on February 15, 2025 and an M 4.1 on March 9, 2025 to the west
of today's epicenter and an M 3.8 on March 3, 2025 south of today's epicenter.
This epicenter is at 105 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 08:39:47 34.4N 118.6W MB=2.7 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CA
O: 08FEB2026 08:37:58 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.2 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
O: 08FEB2026 08:38:57 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.2 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.
A pair of earthquakes also occurred in the area of the Strait of Mozambique
west of Madagascar today with M 4.7 and 4.6. This area (see above) had been
the site of the strong tropical cyclone Fytia at the beginning of the week.
Stresses from this storm may have helped promote today's seismicity. A
second storm (TC Gezani) is approaching the area from the east at this time and may
continue the current swarm.
These epicenters are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and Mindanao
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 08FEB2026 02:32:22 16.3S 42.9E MB=4.7 EMSC MOZAMBIQUE CHANNEL
O: 07FEB2026 20:42:39 17.1S 40.5E MB=4.8 EMSC MOZAMBIQUE CHANNEL
An M 5.5 earthquake in Cuba is being reported at this time early on February 8, 2026.
Details at this writing are not yet available. This epicenter is near the antipode
of stron TC Mitchell and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
"Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 85 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 66W is in the area of the northern and eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 8, 2026)
This event in Cuba may have been promoted by an M1.3 solar flare which
reached its maximum several minutes before this earthquake in Cuba.
This earthquake occurred at the end of a strong solar flare. Preliminary
data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1132 1143 1200 M1.7 (February 8, 2026) 1.0E-02 *
Cuba M 5.5 12:00 UT
This earthquake is the strongest in Cuba within about 200 km since an M
5.8 on August 15, 2021 - an aftershock of an M 7.2 on August 14, 2021. At the
time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake hit the region of Haiti today. This event of M 7.2 was initially
reported to have killed more than 225 people but hundreds more are missing or
injured. The mainshock was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity IV in Haiti
at Saint-Louis-du-Sud, Torbeck, VIII in Asile Grande, Petit-Trou-de-Nippes, Jeremie Grand; VII in Port-au-Prince, VI in Grand-Goave; V in Saint-Marc, Petot-Goave, Cavaillon.
It was reported to have been felt lightly as far as Rhode Island, New Jersey, Maryland, South Carolina, Florida, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Cuba,
A strong M 5.8 aftershock occurred and was felt with intensity IX in Haiti at Chardonnieres; IV in Kenscoff and Kingston and II-III in Petit Goave, Port-au-Prince, Petionville, Port-de=Paix, Haiti and in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba Kingston, Jamaica and Caracas, Venezuela.
Internet photos show damaged and collapsed buildings in Haiti.
The most damage probably occurred in the area of the towns of Les Caves and Jeremie, Petit Trou de Nipes which was
near the epicenter. Many buildings collapsed in the earthquake and hospitals were
overwhelmed. A tsunami warning was issued but later withdrawn. An earthquake of M 7.0
hit Haiti on January, 12, 2010 killing more than 200,000 people and causing massive
dislocation and loss of property and infrastructure. It was followed months
later by a cholera epidemic which killed more than 10,000 and affected nearly
a million people. ...
The only earthquake in historical record in Haiti of M>=7.2 was an M 7.2 in 1887
but the date is not known. A similar event may have occurred with M 7.2 in 1770 and in October 1751.
More recently earthquakes in the region of Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Haiti
occurred north of Puerto Rico with M 7.3 on April 21, 1948; M 8.1 and 7.9 in August, 1946 and
M 7.9 on July 29, 1943. Earthquakes in northern Puerto Rico also occurred in the 1900's on October 11, 1918 with M 7.5 and
with M 7.2 on April 24, 1916. This suggest such event occur in clusters and
more such events in the next several years in the area are likely. (August 14, 2021)
In addition to being nearly antipodal to TC Mitchell, this epicenter is also at 145
degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08FEB2026 12:00:09 19.9N 74.4W MB=5.5 EMSC CUBA
This event in Cuba follows an M 4.4 in Saint Kitts and Nevis at the antipode
to TC Mitchell yesterday as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"A second earthquake which may have triggered by energy from Tropical Cyclone
Mitchell today was an M 4.4 at the antipode of this epicenter when it occurred
as discussed in the previous issue of this summary:
"Tropical Cyclone Mitchell formed north of western Australia today with winds up to 75 kts. This system is expected to track to the west. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia is is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 60W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 6, 2026)
Today's event of M 4.4 in the Saint Kitts and Nevis region was probably
felt lightly in the area. It is the strongest earthquake within about 150
km of today's epicenter since an M 4.6 on April 18, 2025. At the time this
summary noted:
"An unusually large event of M 4.6 shook the area of Antigua and Barbuda today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Antigua and Barbuda at Cedar Grove and in Saint Kitts and Nevis at Basseterre, Newcastlr and Cotton Ground with III in Carlisle, Antigua and Barbuda and Mansion, Christ Church Saint Kitts and Nevis. It may have been felt as far as Floreida where it was reported with intensity II in Everglades-Monroe County.
This event occurred at local solar noon and was probably promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic effects which dominate near this hour.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in the area of
Antigua and Barbuda occurred as an M 4.9 on November 15, 2024 followied by an M 4.8 on November 16, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"A series of light to moderate earthquakes began today in the region of Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean with M 4.9. NEIC reported maximum intensity V in Netherlands Antilles at Cul De Sac Sint; III in Antigua and Barbuda at Potters Village and Freetown and in Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis with II in Guadeloupe, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barduda.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate to strong motion in Codrington, Antigua and Barbuda and lightly in Guadeloupe at Baie-Mahault and Lamentin." (November 16, 2024)
The last earthquake in the Antigua and Barbuda area of significantly larger
magnitude than today's M 4.6 occurred as an M 5.2 on December 2, 2023. At the
time this summary noted:
"An M 5.3 and M 4.5 also continued the seismic swarm today in the Guadeloupe
region of the Leeward Islands, Caribbean. This had been noted in the previous
issue of this summary as:
"A series of moderate earthquakes also occurred today in the Guadeloupe Islands of The Leeward
Islands in the eastern Caribbean. The last strong earthquake in Guadeloupe
occurred as an M 6.2 on January 20, 2023. Aftershocks of magnitude around 5.0
occurred on February 2 and April 16, 2023. At the time of the mainshock in
January 2023 this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.2 also occurred in the area of Guadeloupe today where it was
widely felt. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in Guadeloupe in Basse-Terre at Le Gosier, Saint-Claude, Baie-Mahault, Petit-Bourg and II-III in Bouillant, Point-Noire, Sante-Rose, Lamentin, Terre-de-Bas and in Montserrat.
This earthquake occurred at intermediate focal depth of 166 km. Several foreshocks hit the area in the past week.
The last earthquake in the west Indies within about 300 km of today's event
of M 6.2 with equal or greater magnitude was an M 7.4 on November 29, 2007. Like today's
earthquake it occurred at an intermediate depth of 156 km about 250 km southeast
of today's epicenter. The last and only event within about 100 km of this epicenter
with equal or larger magnitude in the past 35 years was an M 6.2 on November 21, 2004." (January 21, 2023, December 2, 2023, April 18, 2025)
This epicenter was antipodal to TC Mitchell at the time of its occurrence
and was probably promoted by focused antipodal energy from that storm.
O: 06FEB2026 13:46:30 17.5N 62.4W ML=4.4 EMSC SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS REGION
An earthquake of M 5.7 also occurred in northern Chile today after the quake
in Cuba. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Tarapaca, Chile at Iquique and III in Arica.
The M 5.7 occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted
by geomagnetic effects related to a C5 class solar flare which occurred
at the same time. Data of this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1600 1615 1625 C4.1 (February 8, 2026) 6.0E-03
Chile M 5.7 16:23 UT
The last earthquake with M>=5.7 in northern Chile within about 200 km of this
epicenter occurred as an M 5.7 on May 26, 2025 and prior to that an M 6.1 on January 2, 2025.
Similar conditions existed with the M 5.7 on May 26, 2025 including the timing
at local solar noon and the concurrence with a moderate solar flare. At the time this summary noted:
An moderately strong earthquake of M 5.7-5.8 occurred in the Tarapaca area of northern Chile on May 26.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Tarapaca, Chile at Arica and Iquique; III in Antofagasta, Chile and Tacna, Peru with intensity II in Antofagasta at Calama, and in Arequipa, Peru.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Chile at Iquique, Alto Hospicio, Arica, and in Peru at Pocollay, Cayma.
CSN reported this earthquake was felt with intensity V at Arica and Parinacota at Codpa, Cuya; IV at Arica, San Miguel de Azapa, Pocon Chile, Putre; in Tarapaca with V in Camina; IV in Alto Hospicio, Iquique, Huara, La Tirana, Mamina, Pica, Pisagua, Pozo Almonte, and in Antofagasta with IV in Mejillones and III in Tocopilla. A tsunami was not expected.
A foreshock of M 4.0 occurred about 9 hours earlier and was reported by CSN to
have been felt with intensity III in Chile at Arica and Parinacota at Codpa, Arica and Cuya; in Tarapaca with III in Pisagua and II in Iquique and Alto Hospicio, Chile. No damage.
EMSC reported this event with light shaking in Arica, Chile.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 6.1 on December 6, 2020.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.1 in northern Chile. It was reported with maximum intensity VI in Iquique, Tarapaca and V in Tocopilla, Antofagasta and IV in Calama and Arica, Antofagasta and Arequipa.
GUC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity VI in Tarapaca at Alto Hospicio, Camina, Huara, Iquique, La Tirana, Pica, with V in El Loa, Mamina, Pisagua and Ujina; IV in La Tirana, Pozo Almonte and III in Colchane; Antofagasta with IV in Calama, Quillagua, Tocopilla and III in Maria Elena; IV in Arica and Parinacota at Arica, Codpa, Cuya and III in Pocon Chile and San Miguel de Azapa, Chile.
This continues strong activity in the region over the past week. The last
earthquakes in northern Chile of M>=6.1 occurred on September 11, 2020 and prior to that on November 1, 2018. A major event of M 7.6 hit the area on April 3, 2014 after an M 8.2 to the north on April 1, 2014. Today's event is about 150 km east of those epicenters. This event
occurred within several minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted
by high tidal stresses which maximize at this hour." (December 6, 2020)
Earthquakes of M 6.0-6.1 also occurred in the area within about 300 km of
today's epicenter near local solar noon on December 14, 2020 and local solar midnight on
July 28, 2022.
Today's epicenter was within several minutes of local solar noon when a strong X1.0
solar flare (#5630 M8.9) occurred at 16:39 UT on May 25. It was probably promoted by SFE from that flare.
Data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5630 1618 1630 1636 M8.9 (May 25, 2025) 3.4E-02
Tarapaca M 3.3 16:42 UT
Tarapaca M 5.8 03:50 UT (May 26)" (May 26, 2025)
This epicenter is located at 145 degrees from Honshu, Japan and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08FEB2026 07:25:45 21.4S 68.5W MB=4.2 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
O: 08FEB2026 16:23:57 20.1S 69.0W MB=5.7 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Sichuan, China was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sichuan, China in Huayang.
O: 08FEB2026 06:06:46 29.5N 102.1E MB=4.7 EMSC WESTERN SICHUAN, CHINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Honshu, Japan with III in Hitachi, Ibaraki and II in Sendai, Miyagi.
O: 08FEB2026 01:59:33 36.3N 141.9E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Sikkim, India was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sikkim, India with IV in Sikkim at Singtam and Gezing and III in Namchi. It was also felt with intensity II-III in Birtnagar, Nepal and in Bangla, India at Kalimpong, Namchi, Shiliguri, Jalpaiguri.
O: 07FEB2026 13:05:23 27.3N 88.2E MB=4.6 EMSC SIKKIM, INDIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California in Calistoga, Hidden Valley Lake, San Mateo, South San Francisco and Middletown.
O: 07FEB2026 12:02:47 38.7N 122.5W MD=2.7 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
GeoNet reported an earthquake in South Island, New Zealand today with the following parameters:
O: 07FEB2026 12:09:21 44.8S 167.0E MB=4.2 GEONET Felt with weak intensity in the area south of Te Anau, South Island. 2 reports of felt intensity came from the area east and north of the epicenter including 1 with weak intensity; 0 light; 0 moderate; 0 strong; 0 severe and 1 extreme.
O: 07FEB2026 12:09:21 44.8S 167.0E ML=4.4 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE MITCHELL
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC MITCHELL 2026-02-08 00:00 UT 22.3S 114.6E 85 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 85 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 66W is in the area of the northern and eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days.
TROPICAL STORM PENHA (DEPRESSION 02W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS PENHA 2026-02-08 00:00 UT 10.1N 122.9E 35 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Storm Penha (Depression 02W) continued east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 35 kts. This system is expected to track to the west making landfall in Mindanao today and to dissipate on February 7. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 10S 58W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GEZANI
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GEZANI 2026-02-08 00:00 UT 18.1N 57.1E 35 kts East of Madagascar
Tropical Cyclone Gezani formed east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean today with winds up to 35 kts. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in Indian Ocean ridge systems and Madagascar. The antipode is at 18N 122W southwest of the Gulf of California. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 7, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0732 0746 0757 C6.1 (February 8, 2026) 8.0E-03 *
Los Angeles CA, M 2.3, 2.2, 2.2, 2.7 08:11-08:39 UT
XXXX 1711 1738 1753 C8.7 (February 8, 2026) 8.0E-03 *
XXXX 1658 1703 1711 C3.2 (February 8, 2026) 3.0E-03 *
XXXX 1600 1615 1625 C4.1 (February 8, 2026) 6.0E-03 *
XXXX 1050 1118 1120 M1.2 (February 8, 2026) 1.0E-02 *
XXXX 1132 1143 1200 M1.7 (February 8, 2026) 1.0E-02 *
XXXX 1346 1353 1357 M2.8 (February 8, 2026) 3.0E-02 *
5230 0633 0639 0641 C2.1 (February 7, 2025) 1.1E-03
Western Turkey M 4.0 06:41 UT
5260 0742 0748 0753 C2.0 (February 7, 2025) 1.4E-03
5270 0809 0819 0829 C7.3 (February 7, 2025) 5.8E-03
Michoacan M 4.0 08:19 UT
Gulf of California M 3.5 08:14 UT
5360 1355 1359 1408 C1.9 (February 7, 2025) 1.6E-03
5410 1634 1647 1655 C3.2 (February 7, 2025) 3.4E-03
5520 2329 2347 0007 C5.6 (February 7, 2025) 1.0E-02
Molucca Sea M 4.7 23:35 UT
Sakhalin Russia M 4.8 00:06 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active February 9-10 minor storms February 8. Solar M-flare chance: 75% X-class: 25% proton storm: 25%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 18, mid-latitude: 11, time of max AP: 08:00 UT; Max AP: 4 Global Kp 3.33 0500-0800 UT February 7; Sunspot Number: 128; Radio Flux: 169
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 7, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.9 in the Banda Sea area (Tanimbar) of Indonesia
north of western Australia.
This earthquake may have been promoted by the passage of Tropical Cyclone
Mitchell south of this epicenter in the past several days. TC Mitchell was
located south of this epicenter two days ago over northern Australia.
The current position and expectations for TC Mitchell as seen in this
summary are:
"TC MITCHELL 2026-02-07 00:00 UT 19.4N 117.6E 80 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 80 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 19N 62W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 6-7, 2026)
The last earthquake with M>=5.9 within about 200 km of this epicenter in Tanimbar, Banda Sea,
Indonesia occurred on October 28, 2025 with M 6.4. At the time this summary noted it as:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.4-6.8 in the Banda Sea of
Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Dili, East Timor and in the Northern Territory of Australia with intensity II-III in Palmerston, Darwin, Coonawarra and Humpty Doo-MacMinns Lagoon.
BMG reported intensity IV in Kab. Maluku at Dawelor Da; III in Banda, at Tengah and in Tenggara at Kei, Manyeuw, Hoat Sorba; in Tanimbat at Wer, Tanimbar, Yaru, Wuar Labob, Kormomolin, Nirunmas, Molu Maru, in Seram at Wakate, Pulau Panj, Teor among others.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Dili, Timor and Sorong and in Australia at Brinkin, KLeamyer, Karama, Ludmilla, Stuart Park, Larrakeyah, Driver, Johnston, Woodroffe, Bellamack, Katherine, Kununurra.
Strong earthquakes in the Banda Sea are often reported felt in Northern Territory, Australia.
This event follows a series of strong earthquakes in Central Indonesia
over the past several days. This region is located on the geomagnetic
equator where geomagnetic storms are geoeffective. Today's event occurred
at the peak of a geomagnetic storm which maximized with KP 6 about the
time of the Banda Sea event." (October 28, 2025)
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.7 in the Banda Sea area of Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt in Indonesia at Ambon, Maluku with intensity IV in in the Northern Terrirory of Australia at Coonawarra with III in Darwin, Howard Springs, Humpty Doo-MacMinns Lagoon, Palmerston, and in Tual, Maluu, Indonesia with intensity II.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Dili, Tanimbar and in Australia at Berrimah, Woolner, Darwin, Larrakeyah, Stuart Park, Driver, Humpty Doo, Kununurra.
An M 4.4 foreshock occurred about 6 hours before the mainshock in the Banda Sea. This is the strongest earthquake in the world in more than two months - since an M 7.4 in the
Drake Passage south of South America on May 2, 2025. It is also the strongest earthquake
in the Banda Sea within about 250 km of this epicenter since an M 7.1 on November 8, 2023.
At the time this summary noted:
The strongest earthquakes in the world today were a pair of strong to major earthquakes of M 6.7 and 7.1 in the Banda Sea, Indonesia.
NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity III in the Banda Sea, Indonesia area.
The mainshock of M 7.1 was preceded about a minute early by a forecshock of M 6.7 which was felt in the area with maximum intensity VI.
These events were also felt in northern Australia at Darwin. BMG reported the mainshock
of M 7.1 was felt with intensity up to V in the Tanimbar Islands. BMG reported this
activity in the Tanimbar region was felt with intensity IV in Bandaneira, III in Maluku Tengah, Banda, Maluku Tenggara, at Kecil, Manyeuw, Hoat Sorbay, in Tanimbar at Tanimbar Selatan, Selaru, Wer Tamrian, Wer Maktian; in Seram Bagian in Maluku Barat Daya and in Kota Tual and many other communities experienced lesser shaking.
No tsunamis were observed or expected with these events. A moderate foreshock
hit the region yesterday and was reported in this summary as:
and
"The strongest earthquake near the geomagnetic equator in Indonesia today was an M 5.2
in the Banda Sea. EMSC reported this earthquake of M 5.2 in Banda Sea, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Banda Sea, Indonesia in Dili, Timor.
BMG reported intensity III-IV in Timur, Alor, Nusa, Tengara, Maluku, Tengah Selatan, amont others.
This follows a relatively quiet period in Indonesia over the past week and probably
is the first salvo of enhanced seismicity in the area with the major geomagnetic
storm of yesterday and today (see above). The last earthquake of M>=5.2 in
the Banda Sea area was an M 5.8 on September 23, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in the Banda Sea, Indonesia at a deep focus. NEIC reported it was felt in East Timor at Dili in Dili and Dare and in northern Territory, Australia with IV in Howard Springs, Katherine and II-III in Coonawarra, Darwin, Humpty Doo-MacMinns Lagoon.
This is the largest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an
M 5.9 on August 29, 2023, and an M 6.2 on May 24, 2023. A major M 7.6 hit near
today's epicenter on January 9, 2023. This may be an aftershock of that mainshock." (November 7, 2023, September 23, 2023)
The strongest earthquake within about 250 km of today's earthquake in Indonesia
with M>=7.1 occurred on January 9, 2023 with M 7.6. At the time this summary noted:
When a similar M 7.5-7.6 hit at deep focus near today's Indonesian epicenter
on January 27, 2006 this summary noted in this regard:
"A major earthquake initially given magnitude of M 7.7 occurred today
in the Banda Sea region of Southern Indonesia south of Ambon, Moluccas.
Data on the NEIC website indicates that this event was felt with maximum
intensity V at Dili, East Timore and with intensity III in northwestern
Australia at Darwin, Howard Springs and Humpty Doo-MacMinns Lagoon and with
lesser intensity at Jabiru and Palmerston, Australia nearly 900 km to the
southeast of this epicenter. Press accounts on Associated Press indicate
that the earthquake was felt strongly on Ambon, the capital of Maluku
province. Residenst of Ambon ran out of homes to higher places in fear of
a tsunami. The quake was also felt with lesser intensity at Bali, Sorong
and in south Sulawesi province, Indonesia. Residents also fled their homes
about 440 km to the south in East Timor. There were no immediate reports
of serious damage or casualties. The earthquake hit at a depth of about
350 km and there is no danger of a major tsunami from earthquakes which
occur at such depths and do not propagate to the surface. Some local
landslide tsunamis may occur, but in this case the shaking on the surface
was probably not sufficient to trigger these. Strong earthquakes of M 7.5-8.5
have hit the area in 1963, 1950, 1948, 1938, 1917-1918 and 1899. Like most of the other large
events in the past month, this epicenter is located at the Core-mantle
Shadow Zone Boundary (MSZB) from the strong M 7.4 which hit the South
Atlantic on Jan. 2, 2006." (January 9, 2023, November 8, 2023, July 14, 2025)
O: 06FEB2026 21:20:14 7.8S 130.1E MW=5.9 EMSC KEP. TANIMBAR REGION, INDONESI
O: 06FEB2026 21:20:16 7.8S 130.2E Mw=5.9 BMG KEP. TANIMBAR REGION, INDONESIA
O: 06FEB2026 23:04:57 7.5S 130.2E ML=4.1 EMSC KEP. TANIMBAR REGION, INDONESIA
O: 06FEB2026 22:09:31 7.9S 130.2E ML=4.1 EMSC KEP. TANIMBAR REGION, INDONESIA
A second earthquake which may have triggered by energy from Tropical Cyclone
Mitchell today was an M 4.4 at the antipode of this epicenter when it occurred
as discussed in the previous issue of this summary:
"Tropical Cyclone Mitchell formed north of western Australia today with winds up to 75 kts. This system is expected to track to the west. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia is is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 60W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days." (February 6, 2026)
Today's event of M 4.4 in the Saint Kitts and Nevis region was probably
felt lightly in the area. It is the strongest earthquake within about 150
km of today's epicenter since an M 4.6 on April 18, 2025. At the time this
summary noted:
"An unusually large event of M 4.6 shook the area of Antigua and Barbuda today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Antigua and Barbuda at Cedar Grove and in Saint Kitts and Nevis at Basseterre, Newcastlr and Cotton Ground with III in Carlisle, Antigua and Barbuda and Mansion, Christ Church Saint Kitts and Nevis. It may have been felt as far as Floreida where it was reported with intensity II in Everglades-Monroe County.
This event occurred at local solar noon and was probably promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic effects which dominate near this hour.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in the area of
Antigua and Barbuda occurred as an M 4.9 on November 15, 2024 followied by an M 4.8 on November 16, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"A series of light to moderate earthquakes began today in the region of Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean with M 4.9. NEIC reported maximum intensity V in Netherlands Antilles at Cul De Sac Sint; III in Antigua and Barbuda at Potters Village and Freetown and in Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis with II in Guadeloupe, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barduda.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate to strong motion in Codrington, Antigua and Barbuda and lightly in Guadeloupe at Baie-Mahault and Lamentin." (November 16, 2024)
The last earthquake in the Antigua and Barbuda area of significantly larger
magnitude than today's M 4.6 occurred as an M 5.2 on December 2, 2023. At the
time this summary noted:
"An M 5.3 and M 4.5 also continued the seismic swarm today in the Guadeloupe
region of the Leeward Islands, Caribbean. This had been noted in the previous
issue of this summary as:
"A series of moderate earthquakes also occurred today in the Guadeloupe Islands of The Leeward
Islands in the eastern Caribbean. The last strong earthquake in Guadeloupe
occurred as an M 6.2 on January 20, 2023. Aftershocks of magnitude around 5.0
occurred on February 2 and April 16, 2023. At the time of the mainshock in
January 2023 this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.2 also occurred in the area of Guadeloupe today where it was
widely felt. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in Guadeloupe in Basse-Terre at Le Gosier, Saint-Claude, Baie-Mahault, Petit-Bourg and II-III in Bouillant, Point-Noire, Sante-Rose, Lamentin, Terre-de-Bas and in Montserrat.
This earthquake occurred at intermediate focal depth of 166 km. Several foreshocks hit the area in the past week.
The last earthquake in the west Indies within about 300 km of today's event
of M 6.2 with equal or greater magnitude was an M 7.4 on November 29, 2007. Like today's
earthquake it occurred at an intermediate depth of 156 km about 250 km southeast
of today's epicenter. The last and only event within about 100 km of this epicenter
with equal or larger magnitude in the past 35 years was an M 6.2 on November 21, 2004." (January 21, 2023, December 2, 2023, April 18, 2025)
This epicenter was antipodal to TC Mitchell at the time of its occurrence
and was probably promoted by focused antipodal energy from that storm.
O: 06FEB2026 13:46:30 17.5N 62.4W ML=4.4 EMSC SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern California with III in Truckee and II in Sacramento.
O: 06FEB2026 19:17:32 39.2N 120.4W MD=2.5 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in eastern Honshu near Tokyo, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of in eastern Honshu near Tokyo, Japan with III in Fussa, Chiba, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Tokyo and II in Inagi, Matsudo, Shiraoka, Saitama, and Komae.
EMSC reported moderate shaking and rattling in Tokyo, Koganei, Kamagaya, Urayasu, Kawasaki, Komae.
O: 06FEB2026 15:58:26 36.0N 139.7E ML=4.1 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 06FEB2026 15:58:26 36.0N 139.7E ML=4.7 NEIC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Eastern Turkey was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Eastern Turkey near Regahiye.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in eastern Turkey at Erzincan, Zara, Elazig, Dogankent, Giresun, Sivas, Malatya, Akcaabat, Yesilyurt, Trabzon, Ordu, Yomra, Altinordu, Tokat.
O: 06FEB2026 11:16:15 39.7N 38.8E MB=4.8 EMSC EASTERN TURKEY
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE MITCHELL
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC MITCHELL 2026-02-07 00:00 UT 19.4N 117.6E 80 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell continued north of western Australia today with winds up to 80 kts. This system is expected to track to the west and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia and north in southern Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 19N 62W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days.
TROPICAL STORM PENHA (DEPRESSION 02W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS PENHA 2026-02-07 00:00 UT 10.1N 122.9E 35 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Storm Penha (Depression 02W) continued east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 35 kts. This system is expected to track to the west making landfall in Mindanao today and to dissipate on February 7. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 10S 58W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the Indian Ocean. This system is currently located at 18S 58E with winds up to 33 kts and moving WSW. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in Indian Ocean ridge systems. The antipode is at 18N 122W southwest of the Gulf of California. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 6, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4810 0223 0232 0245 C3.8 (February 6, 2026) 4.7E-03
Xinjiang, China M 4.5 02:25 UT
Tarapaca M 5.0 02:27 UT M 4.4 02:40 UT
Kuril Is. M 4.6 02:27 UT
4850 0546 0554 0601 C5.0 (February 6, 2026) 3.4E-03
Kamchatka M 4.6 05:57 UT
4870 0734 0754 0802 C2.6 (February 6, 2026) 3.7E-03
Fiji M 4.9 07:57 UT
4880 0923 0932 0940 C3.1 (February 6, 2026) 3.0E-03
Oaxaca M 4.3 09:24 UT
Kamchatka M 4.8 09:45 UT
4890 1010 1021 1026 C6.9 (February 6, 2026) 4.2E-03
Michoacan M 3.9 10:11 UT
4930 1205 1208 1213 C2.8 (February 6, 2026) 1.3E-03
4960 1402 1406 1410 C2.5 (February 6, 2026) 1.3E-03
5000 1450 1457 1501 C4.2 (February 6, 2026) 2.1E-03
5040 1648 1703 1709 C3.3 (February 6, 2026) 3.2E-03
Honshu M 4.1 16:55 UT
5060 1748 1754 1759 C2.1 (February 6, 2026) 1.4E-03
Honshu M 4.5 17:56 UT
Guerrero M 4.1 18:02 UT
5090 1835 1842 1849 C2.1 (February 6, 2026) 1.7E-03
Guerrero M 3.8 18:38 UT
Halmahera M 4.1 18:45 UT
Channel Is. CA., M 2.0 18:44 UT
5130 2129 2132 2140 C4.1 (February 6, 2026) 2.3E-03
Banda Sea M 5.9 21:20 UT
Myanmar M 3.9 21:31 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active February 7 and 9 minor storms February 8. Solar M-flare chance: 80% X-class: 35% proton storm: 25%
AP Indicies: global: 16, high: 32, mid-latitude: 14, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6 Global Kp 4.33 1500-1800 UT February 7; 6 at high latitudes on February 6 around 1700-2000 UT; Sunspot Number: 132; Radio Flux: 164
A minor geomagnetic storm appears to have occurred beginning arou 06:30 UT
on February 7, 2026. GOES 18 and 19 magnetomenter show an increae of field strength
of about 25% within about 15 minutes, usually an indication of a moderate
geomagnetic storm commencement. The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB. There was no concurrent spike in global seismicity
at this time.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 6, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 (EMSC) to 6.4 (BMG) in Java, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity V in Java at Jatiroto, Gondanglegi and in Yogyakarta at Pendong, Depok and Sweon with IV in Java at Jaten, Kediri, Magelang, Kanigoro, Surakarta, Mlati, and III in Driyorego, Grogol, and II in Grogol, Tabanan, Bandung, Karawang and Degangan.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Java at Sudimoro, Pacitan, Wonogiri, Karanganyar, Temenggungan, Klampok, Madiun, Bambanglipuro, Pugeran Maguwoharjo, Gampengrego, Yogyakarta, Surakarta, Depok Kasihan Me.ati amonther others where it woke many.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=5.8 occurred
on June 30, 2023 with M 5.8. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 5.8-6.4 shook the region of Java, Indonesia today.
BMG reported this earthquake of M 6.4 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia with VI in Pracimantoro, Wonogiri, Java, Pacitan; V in Wonogiri, Gunungkidul, Kebumen, Purworejo, Mageland, Kulon Progo, Bantul, Gunungkidul, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Pacitan, Ponorogo, Pasuruan, Mojokerto, Bojonegoro, Lombok.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.9 in Bali, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Bali, Indonesia in Kuta.
News sources reported the quake injured at least 10 people while one person died of a heart attack during the quake.
The associated shaking caused minor damage to hundreds of residences, offices and health and school facilites
mainly in Yogyakarta and Central Java. No tsunami was expected or observed with
This earthquake may have been triggered by SFE from flare #6340 which was ending
simultaneously with this earthquake (see flare list below).
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in
Java since an M 6.1 on January 25, 2014. The last event of M>=6.4
in this area occurred more than 35 years ago." (June 30, 2023)
Today's earthquake occurred within about an hour of local solar midnight and may have
been promoted by geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
The earthquake occurred at the end of solar flare 4650 (M 1.5) which began when
this epicenter was near local solar midnight. Preliminary data from SWPC for this flare follow:
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4650 1731 1741 1810 M1.5 (February 5, 2026) 1.7E-02 *
Java M 5.8 18:06 UT
O: 05FEB2026 18:06:12 8.7S 111.2E MW=5.8 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
O: 05FEB2026 18:06:10 9.0S 111.2E MW=6.4 BMG JAVA, INDONESIA
O: 05FEB2026 18:10:03 8.9S 111.2E ML=4.0 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.7 off the coast of northern California.
NEIC reported it was widely felt in northern California with intensity IV in Rio Dell; III in Scotia, Trinidad, Loleta, Whitethorn, Fortuna, Bayside, San Francisco, Arcata, Eureka, Samoa, Laytonville, McKinleyville, and II in Ferndale, Garberville, Kneeland an Blue Lake, California.
The last earthquake off the coast of Northern California with M>=4.7 occurred
as an M 5.3 on December 16, 2024 - an aftershock of an M 7.0 on December 5, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake of M 7.0-7.3 occurred on December 5, 2024 near local noon off the coast of Northern California.
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) gave this event M 7.3 and several other magnitudes were
given by various international agencies, but it appears to qualify as a "major" earthquake.
This event occurred near the end of a minor C-class solar flare. It also
occurred at an epicenter where the second strongest M-class flare of the day
was at maximum at exactly local solar midnight as seen in SWPC data:
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4340 0638 0641 0645 C3.3 (December 5, 2024) 1.3E-03
4350 0656 0709 0733 M1.0 (December 5, 2024) 1.6E-02
4370 0812 0820 0824 M1.1 (December 5, 2024) 4.2E-03
Northern California M 7.0 18:44 UT (antipodal local solar midnight 08:20 UT)
4470 1917 1930 1935 C3.8 (December 5, 2024) 7.0E-04
East Pacific Rise M 5.1 19:41 UT
Northern California M 7.0 18:44 UT
It also occurred while a northeast clipper was hitting the northeastern U.S. Both of these are
possible triggers for such an event. The epicenter of this earthquake is about 104-105
degrees from a series of events including an M 5.7 in southern Iran yesterday
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
A tsunami warning for the west coast of the U.S. was issued but tsunamis from
large earthquakes in this area are not usually powerful and it is likely
that any tsunami associated with today's event would be in the centimeters
height range. This warning was later withdrawn when no significant tsunami
waves were observed.
A series of moderate earthquake in the Geysers area of northern California
followed the M 7.0 off the California coast. They were likely triggered
by P- and/or S-waves from that earthquake. This series included events of M 2.5 and 4.3.
NEIC reported these were felt with intensity up to III in northern and Central
California at Felton, San Jose, Santa Rosa, Yuba City, Rohnert Park and Fremont.
Today's mainshock was reported by NEIC to have been felt with damage with intensity
VIII at Redcrest and VII in Ferndale and Rio Dell. Intensity VI was reported thoughout most
of Northern California including at Alderpint, Carlotta, Fortuna, Garberville, Hydesville, Loleta, Myers Flat, Scotia, Whitethorn and Six Rivers National Forest. Intensity V was felt as far as 150 km of the epicenter; IV up to 300 km as far as Oregon and III in Nevada and the remainder of California. Light shaking of II was reported in Arizona, Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, and within about 500 km of the epicenter.
Earthquakes in this area can occur in pairs and can help trigger far-field
seismicity, so readers are advised not to relax quite yet.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of today's epicenter off the coast of
Northern California with M>=7 occurred as an M 7.0-7.1 on June 15, 2005. Other
such event (all of M 7.0-7.1) in the past 35 years occurred on August 17, 1991, April 25, 1992,
and September 1, 1994. At the time of the last such earthquake off the coast
of northern California, this summary noted:
"Strong earthquakes occurred today in two areas of the U.S. and Canada. The
strongest of these was an M 7.0-7.5 which occurred late tonight off the coast
of Northern California. This was preceded by an earthquake of M6.6-6.8 in the
Rat/Andreanof Islands region of the central Aleutian Islands, Alaska. A
tsunami warning was issued by the USGS following the event off the coast
of Northern California. That earthquake was strongly felt along the coast
of Oregon and California and was reported slightly felt as far away as
Keller, Texas and Berthoud, Colorado. It was felt to the south as far as Los Angeles.
and as far to the north as Colville, Washington more than 1000 km away from
the epicenter. The quake was also felt in the Seattle area. Maximum felt
intensity was VI at Myrtle Point, Oregon. This is the first event located
in the region off the coast of California (38-42N 124-130W) since an earthquake
of M 7.1 on Sept. 1, 1994 (M 7.1) and April 25, 1992 (M 7.1). The largest
earthquake previously located in the region was an M 7.2 on Nov. 8, 1980
(NEIC data) If the current magnitude of M 7.4 is not revised downward, this
would be the strongest earthquake ever recorded in this region off the northern
coast of California (the largest previous had been M 7.3 on Jan. 31, 1922).
This summary had expected a strong earthquake in the region could occur
at this time. We had emphasized this in our lead article in this summary three
weeks ago on May 23, 2005 and to a lesser extent on Feb. 25, 2005 in this
summary. Readers may read these warning summaries in full by clicking on
more> below. The area was under very strong seismic watch conditions at
the time of the quake. This seismic watch arose from triggering effects
from the landfall of Tropical Storm Arlene, a strong geomagnetic storm two
days ago and the occurrence of a great earthquake in Chile yesterday (M 7.8-7.9)
in addition to a recent activation of the area." (June 15, 2005)
In the previous issues this summary had detailed the lull in major seismic
global activity preceding today's event (see summaries and updates for December 1-5 for
details). This earthquake at M 7.0 is a "major event"
earthquake" and occurs 102-103 days after the last earthquake of M 6.9 in Tonga
on August 26, 2024, not quite breaking the length of the previous quiet period
of 103-104 days in 2019.
When a slightly smaller event of M 6.9 hit the coast of Northern California
on March 10, 2014, this summary noted the strong quiet period preceding it as:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.9 hit off the coast of Northern California early
on March 10 (March 9 local time). NEIC reported this earthquake was widely
felt along the coast of northern California. Maximum intensity V was felt
at Blue Lake and Samoa with intensity IV at Eureka, Ferndale, MacKinleyville, North Bend, Whitethorn, Trinidad, Rio Dell, Loleta, Hydesville, Barberville, Fortuna, Ferndale, Bayside, Arcata, Littleriver, California. Intensity II-III was felt in Brisbane, Daly City, Billbrae, San Gregorio, San Francisco, Oakland, Albany, San Rafael, Bodega, Inverness, Mill Valley, Aptos, Boulder Creek, Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Santa Rosa, Albion, Compiche, Elk, Fort Bragg, Guerneville, Mendocino, Ukiah, Willits, Bridgeville, Burnt Ranch, Carlotta, Crescent City, Klamath, Korbel, Myers Flat, Salyer, Somes Bar, Zenia, Davis, Esparto, Lincoln,Dutch Flat, Sacramento, Chico, Grass Valley, Magalia, Nevada City, Paradise, Quincy, Chico, Redding, Big Bar, Dunsmuir, Gerber, Hayfork, Lewiston, Mount Shasta, Palo Cedro, Weaverville, Crescent City, Klamath, Point Arena and San Mateo. It was also felt in Oregon with intensity IV in North Bend and II-II in Klamath Falls, Selma, O'Brien, Grants Pass, Cave Junction, North Bend, Gold Beach, Brookings and Eugene.
A foreshock of M 3.3 occurred about 15 minutes before the mainshock but was
not reported felt in the area. A smaller foreshock occurred about noon today.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 2.6 off the coast of Northern California was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Rio Dell, California.
This is the strongest earthquake to hit off northern California since an M 7.2
on June 15, 2005 and an M 7.1 on September 1, 1994. A series of events in July and
August, 1991 and on April 25, 1992 registered M 6.9-7.1 in the area. It is also
the strongest earthquake in the United States outside Alaska since the Easter
Day earthquake in Baja California of April 4, 2010. The epicenter of that event,
however was not within the borders of the U.S. and the last event within the U.S.
territorial borders were the events of June 2005 and September 1994.
It is also the strongest earthquake in the world since an event of M 7.8 in
the Scotia Sea on November 17, 2013." (March 11, 2014, December 5, 2024)
Today earthquake also appears to have been triggered by a strong solar Flare. An M 1,7 class fkare bega
It occurred near the maximum of solar 4540 of C6.0 and at the beginning
of an M1.6 flare (#4590). Data on these flares from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4540 1242 1252 1259 C6.0 (February 5, 2026) 5.5E-03
4590 1259 1304 1309 M1.6 (February 5, 2026) 8.5E-03
Off Northern California M 4.7 12:49 UT
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao; at the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Honshu, Japan, and at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 05FEB2026 12:49:30 40.4N 125.5W MW=4.7 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 05FEB2026 14:26:19 40.3N 124.6W MD=2.2 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Northern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Chile with V in Iquique, Tarapaca.
The mainshock was followed by an M 4.4 aftershocks also felt lightly in the area of Iquique, Tarapaca.
O: 06FEB2026 02:27:21 20.6S 70.0W MB=5.0 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
O: 06FEB2026 02:40:00 20.6S 70.1W mb=4.4 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
NEIC reported earthquakes including events of M 2.5, M 2.5 and M 2.7 in eastern San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern San Francisco, California with III in Pleasanton, San Ramon, Hayward and II in Dublin, Alamo, Walnut Creek, San Leandro.
O: 05FEB2026 16:55:34 37.8N 122.0W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 05FEB2026 17:12:49 37.8N 122.0W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 05FEB2026 22:01:45 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 05FEB2026 23:12:05 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 05FEB2026 23:59:53 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.7 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 06FEB2026 00:32:02 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Northern Utah was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Utah iwith IV in Lehi, Saratoga Springs, III in Eagle Mountain, Draper, Sandy, Riverton, Bingham Canyon, Park City, Alpine, American Fork, Cedar Valley, Herriman, South Jordan, Salt Lake City, Roy, Sandy and II in Clearfield, Tooele, Provo, Orem, West Jordan, Midvale, Lindon, Spanish Fork, Magna, Pleasant Grove, among others.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km near Salt Lake City, Utah
since an M 5.7 on March 18, 2020. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderately strong M 5.6-5.7 earthquake shook the Salt Lake City area of Utah today. It cut power to a large swatch of the city as well as the international airport. Work was suspended at many sites which included attempts to control the spread of the Corona Virus CORVID-19. The epicenter was about 16 km west of Salt Lake City in Magma, Utah. It damaged buildings throughout the region but no one was injured or killed according to early reports. At the Mormon Temple in Salt Lake City damage occurred to spires and figures. Internet pictures showed extensive damage to buildings with some collapses.
The earthquake occurred at about 7 a.m. local time when rush hour often occurs. But many people were not on the roads, instead working at home due to restrictions on travel related to the Corona Virus Pandemic.
Many schools were closed also because of the Virus. Most extensive damage occurred to
downtown buildings but gas and chemical leaks occurred in Kennecott. NEIC reported maximum shaking VI (some damage) in Utah at Magna, Salt Lake City, North Salt Lake City; V in West Jordan, Herriman, IV in Centerville, Sandy, Farmington, Draper and other sites within about 50 km. Lesser shaking was reported in southwestern Montana, southern Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado, and South Dakota. Reports of felt activity as far as more than 1000 km from the epicenter in Illinois, for example, were probably mistaken.
The strongest aftershocks to date were of M 4.5 and M 4.6 - events felt with intensity V in Magna, Salt Lake City, North Salt Lake City and West Jordan, Utah.
One promotional factor for the quake at this time is its near-antipodal location
with the only tropical cyclone currently active - TC Herold currently at 26S 70E (antipode 26N 110W).
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Utah with M>=3.9 was an M 3.9 on September 24, 2019. This summary had noted
that event at the time as:
"The largest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.1 in northern Utah. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Utah at Garland, Tremonton, Plymouth, Fielding, Portage, Snowville, Collinston, Deweyville, and Honeyville.
This is the strongest earthquake in northern Utah within about 250 km of this
epicenter since an M 4.3 on January 26, 2018 and the strongest within about 100
km since November, 1992." (September 25, 2019)
An M 4.0 also hit in Utah near Milford on January 17 about 250 km to the southwest of today's epicenter.
The only earthquake in Utah in the past 30 years of M>=5.6 occurred on September 2, 1992
in the Saint George area about 450 km to the southwest of today's event. This summary had described this event which followed several hours after an M 7.4 in Nicaragua which killed more than 180 and left 13,000 homeless in the quake and tsunami, in the History section as:
"Damage occurred at Cedar City and Hurricane to St. George. A large landslide was triggered and destroyed three homes at Springdale. Maximum intensity was V in the Glendale and Enterprise, UT area. Also felt in Arizona and southestern Nevada and as far away as Flagstaff, Arizona. Felt slightly in Las Vegas." (September 2, 2019, March 18, 2020)
Readers may note that this latitude is the same as the M 4.7 off the coast
of Northern California several hours earlier. This summary has reported
on this coincidence when significant earthquakes occurred earlier in the
two areas within hours. An example of this occurred on March 18, 2020
when an M 5.7 in Utah occurred at the same latitude as an M 5.0 off the
coast of Northern California within hours. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquake (M 5.0) was also felt in Northern California today. This event of M 5.0-5.2 occurred near the coast and was felt with maximum intensity VI in Ferndale and Scotia according to data from NEIC. Intensity V shaking occurred in California at Rio Dell, Fortuna and Eureka and IV in Petrolia and Hydesville with lesser shaking in Lleta, Carlotta and Myers Flat. Light shaking was reported as far as Central California and southern Oregon. Several light aftershocks followed.
This is probably a regional aftershock of the M 5.8 which hit the area to the
west on March 9, 2020 in a regional activation from Alaska to southern California.
This summary had noted this at the time as:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 off the Coast of Northern California. NEIC reported it was felt along the coast with maximum intensity at Ferndale, Petrolia, Loleta, Rio Dell, Fortuna, Hydesville, and Scotia and III in Samoa, Eureka.
A moderate aftershock of M 4.9-5.0 off the coast of California was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity II-III along the coast of Northern California at Ferndale, Petrolia, Loleta, Rio Dell, Fortuna, Samoa, Hydesville, Eureka and Scotia. Several smaller aftershocks of M 2.9 and 2.5 were also lightly felt along the coast.
This appears to be the culminating event in the regional activation which began in Alaska
several days ago and was alluded to in this summary in previous issues as:
"The activation of Alaska and the northwest North American Plate at this time is reminiscent of the activation
of early July, 2019 which culminated in the M 7.1 Ridgecrest, California event of July 6, 2019." (March 2, 10, 2020, March 18, 2020)
O: 05FEB2026 19:53:10 40.4N 111.9W ML=3.5 EMSC WASATCH FRONT URBAN AREA, UTAH
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in northern India near Gyalshing was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sikkim, India with V in Gezing; IV in Rangpo, III in Singtam, Gangtok and III in Bangla, India at Darjeeling and Shiliguri.
EMSC re[prted fe;t aftershocks in Sikkim of M 4.2 and M 2.8 among others.
O: 05FEB2026 20:50:43 27.2N 88.1E MB=4.4 EMSC SIKKIM, INDIA
O: 05FEB2026 19:39:28 27.4N 88.2E mb=4.6 EMSC SIKKIM, INDIA
O: 05FEB2026 21:41:30 27.4N 88.4E ML=4.2 EMSC SIKKIM, INDIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in the Rat Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of in the Rat Islands.
O: 05FEB2026 19:33:33 51.6N 177.3E ML=4.3 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 05FEB2026 19:33:33 51.6N 177.3E ML=4.0 NEIC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Northern Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Mindanao, Philippines in Dinagat.
s earthquake occurred as Tropical Storm Penha was passing over the epicenter and
was probably promoted by energy from that landfall event as noted in this
summary:
"TS PENHA 2026-02-06 00:00 UT 09.2N 125.9E 45 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Storm Penha (Depression 02W) continued east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 45 kts. This system is expected to track to the west making landfall in Mindanao today. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 9S 55W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time.' (February 5-6, 2026)
O: 05FEB2026 18:15:52 9.9N 125.6E MB=5.0 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in New Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Mexico with III in Carlsbad and II in Roswell, La Luz and in El Paso, Texas.
O: 05FEB2026 19:48:23 31.5N 104.0W ML=2.1 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 05FEB2026 18:06:21 31.8N 103.8W ML=2.6 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 05FEB2026 18:05:15 32.3N 104.4W ML=3.7 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 06FEB2026 01:01:37 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Kazakhstan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kazakhstan in Almaty.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Kazakhstan at Zharkent, Tekeli, Taldykorgan, Kapshagay, Talghar, Ptegen Batyra, Pervomayka, Almaty, Burunday, and Chemolgan.
O: 05FEB2026 08:39:41 44.8N 79.8E MB=4.7 EMSC EASTERN KAZAKHSTAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Russia at Yelizovo and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
O: 06FEB2026 04:24:33 53.1N 159.8E MW=5.1 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 06FEB2026 05:57:08 53.3N 159.9E mb=4.6 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 05FEB2026 07:42:40 53.4N 160.2E mb=4.2 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Argentina in Copiapo, Chile.
O: 06FEB2026 03:44:53 28.9S 68.8W MW=4.9 EMSC LA RIOJA, ARGENTINA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE MITCHELL
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC MITCHELL 2026-02-06 00:00 UT 18.0N 120.0E 75 kts North of Western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell formed north of western Australia today with winds up to 75 kts. This system is expected to track to the west. Some seismic enhancement in the region of north and western Australia is is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 60W is in the area of the Leeward Islands, eastern Caribbean. A moderate earthquake near this epicenter is likely in the next two days.
TROPICAL STORM PENHA (DEPRESSION 02W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS PENHA 2026-02-06 00:00 UT 09.2N 125.9E 45 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Storm Penha (Depression 02W) continued east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 45 kts. This system is expected to track to the west making landfall in Mindanao today. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 9S 55W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the Indian Ocean. This system is currently located at 16S 60E with winds up to 28 kts and moving SSW. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in Indian Ocean ridge systems. The antipode is at 16N 120W southwest of the Gulf of California. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 5, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1249 1304 1309 M1.6 (February 5, 2026) 8.3E-03 *
Coast of No. California M 4.7 12:49 UT
4340 0054 0101 0106 C4.7 (February 5, 2026) 2.8E-03
4360 0144 0151 0157 C4.9 (February 5, 2026) 3.0E-03
4370 0213 0222 0232 C3.2 (February 5, 2026) 3.6E-03
Hokkaido M 4.1 02:11 UT
Sumbawa M 4.4 02:33 UT
4380 0240 0254 0306 C8.9 (February 5, 2026) 9.9E-03
4420 0425 0436 0441 M2.7 (February 5, 2026) 2.9E-02
4440 0613 0619 0627 M1.3 (February 5, 2026) 1.0E-02
4460 0751 0802 0806 C8.1 (February 5, 2026) 4.7E-03
So Island, N.Z. M 3.8 08:33 UT
4480 0819 0833 0838 M1.0 (February 5, 2026) 1.1E-02
Honshu M 4.3 08:33 UT
4480 0838 0846 0850 M1.2 (February 5, 2026) 8.8E-03
Kazakhstan M 4.7 08:39 UT
4510 1006 1014 1028 C7.9 (February 5, 2026) 8.3E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.4 10:16 UT
4520 1138 1142 1146 C4.3 (February 5, 2026) 2.0E-03
Banda Sea M 4.0 11:38 UT
4540 1242 1252 1259 C6.0 (February 5, 2026) 5.5E-03
Off Northern California M 4.7 12:49 UT
Banda Sea M 3.8 13:10 UT
New Britain M 4.4 12:52 UT
4590 1259 1304 1309 M1.6 (February 5, 2026) 8.5E-03
4570 1411 1422 1433 C4.4 (February 5, 2026) 5.4E-03
Off Northern California M 2.2 14:26 UT
4580 1443 1455 1506 C4.4 (February 5, 2026) 5.7E-03
So. Texas M 2.1 15:04 UT
4600 1508 1513 1520 M1.8 (February 5, 2026) 1.0E-02
Banda Sea M 4.5 15:08 UT
4630 1549 1601 1609 C3.5 (February 5, 2026) 4.0E-03
Fiji M 4.716:05 UT
4640 1620 1630 1646 M1.6 (February 5, 2026) 1.6E-02
4650 1731 1741 1756 M1.5 (February 5, 2026) 1.7E-02
Java M 5.8 18:06 UT
New Mexico M 2.7 18:05 UT
4660 1858 1905 1908 C2.1 (February 5, 2026) 1.3E-03
4670 1928 1934 1938 M2.2 (February 5, 2026) 9.0E-03
Rat Is. M 4.3 19:39 UT
Sikkim, India M 4.6 19:39 UT
4730 2210 2217 2220 M1.1 (February 5, 2026) 3.5E-03
4780 2347 2352 2358 C2.0 (February 5, 2026) 1.3E-03
San Francisco CA. M 2.7 23:59 UT
Central California M 2.4 23:48 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active February 7 minor storms February 6 and 8. Solar M-flare chance: 80% X-class: 35% proton storm: 25%
AP Indicies: global: 22, high: 23, mid-latitude: 15, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 5 Global Kp 5.33 0300-0600 UT February 5; 5 at high latitudes on February 5 around 1700-2000 UT; Sunspot Number: 139; Radio Flux: 176
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 5, 2026
UPDATE
A moderate earthquake of M 4.7 struck off the coast of northern California today.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity IV in California at Rio Dell with III in Scotia, Trinidad, Whitethorn, Fortuna, Bayside, Arcata, Eureka and II in McKinleyville.
The last earthquake with M>=4.7 off the northern coast of California occurred
on December 15, 2024 with M 5.3 - an aftershock of an M 7.0 on December 5, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
A major earthquake of M 7.0-7.3 occurred on December 5, 2024 near local noon off the coast of Northern California.
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) gave this event M 7.3 and several other magnitudes were
given by various international agencies, but it appears to qualify as a "major" earthquake.
This event occurred near the end of a minor C-class solar flare. It also
occurred at an epicenter where the second strongest M-class flare of the day
was at maximum at exactly local solar midnight as seen in SWPC data
...
It also occurred while a northeast clipper was hitting the northeastern U.S. Both of these are
possible triggers for such an event. The epicenter of this earthquake is about 104-105
degrees from a series of events including an M 5.7 in southern Iran yesterday
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
A tsunami warning for the west coast of the U.S. was issued but tsunamis from
large earthquakes in this area are not usually powerful and it is likely
that any tsunami associated with today's event would be in the centimeters
height range. This warning was later withdrawn when no significant tsunami
waves were observed.
A series of moderate earthquake in the Geysers area of northern California
followed the M 7.0 off the California coast. They were likely triggered
by P- and/or S-waves from that earthquake. This series included events of M 2.5 and 4.3.
NEIC reported these were felt with intensity up to III in northern and Central
California at Felton, San Jose, Santa Rosa, Yuba City, Rohnert Park and Fremont.
Today's mainshock was reported by NEIC to have been felt with damage with intensity
VIII at Redcrest and VII in Ferndale and Rio Dell. Intensity VI was reported thoughout most
of Northern California including at Alderpint, Carlotta, Fortuna, Garberville, Hydesville, Loleta, Myers Flat, Scotia, Whitethorn and Six Rivers National Forest. Intensity V was felt as far as 150 km of the epicenter; IV up to 300 km as far as Oregon and III in Nevada and the remainder of California. Light shaking of II was reported in Arizona, Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, and within about 500 km of the epicenter.
Earthquakes in this area can occur in pairs and can help trigger far-field
seismicity, so readers are advised not to relax quite yet.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of today's epicenter off the coast of
Northern California with M>=7 occurred as an M 7.0-7.1 on June 15, 2005. Other
such event (all of M 7.0-7.1) in the past 35 years occurred on August 17, 1991, April 25, 1992,
and September 1, 1994." (December 5, 2024)
This event off northern California appears to have been triggered by an M1.7
class solar flare which began at the same time as the earthquake in northern
California. Data on this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1249 1304 1309 M1.7 (February 5, 2026) 8.3E-03 *
Coast of No. California M 4.7 12:49 UT
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao; at the fifth node from Honshu, Japan
and at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 05FEB2026 12:49:28 40.4N 125.6W ML=4.7 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate geomagnetic storm may have begun around 02:00 UT on February 5. Global
Kp for the period increased to Kp 5.0 during this period (G1 geomagnetic storm).
The CME from the X8.1 flare is likely to reach the earth's magnetosphere
later in the UT day of February 5-6 and if it is strong could help trigger
significant seismicity at that time.
A major solar flare of X4.2 occurred on February 4, 2026.
Preliminary data from SWPC for this flare follows:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4160 1202 1213 1245 X4.2 (February 4, 2026) 2.0E-01 *
This flare started when western Europe and the mid-Atlantic Ridge were near
local solar noon and the area of the Kermadec Islands, Tonga, Fiji, New Zealand
and the Rat and Andreanof Islands in the Aleutians were at local solar midnight.
These are the most likely areas to see enhanced seismicity with this flare.
Initially it appears that areas of western Europe were immediately affects
by this flare with M 2.1 and 2.4 in France and M 2.6 in northern Italy
at the start. An M 3.4 in Tarapaca, Chile at 12:00 UT also may have been promoted by
energy associated with this flare. Earthquakes of M 2.0 and 1.7 also occurred
in San Francisco near the start of this flare. A strong radio blackout (R3) is currently in progress).
Current NOAA models indicate that the CME from the X8.2 flare is likely to reach
earth late on UT February 5. A G1-G2 geomagnetic storm is expected with the
arrival of that CME. Areas where seismicity would most likely affected would include the western U.S.
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.1 in the Kermadec Islands, New Zealand.
NEIC reported it was probably felt with intensity up to IV in the epicentral area
despite its intermediate depth of 184 km. This epicenter occurred within about
an hour of local solar midnight and was likely promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic
stresses which maximize near this hour. A foreshock of M 4.4 occurred in the
Kermadec Islands within a few minutes of local solar noon and was probably
precursory to the larger M 6.1 near midnight.
A moderate solar flare accompanied the event in the Kermadec Islands. This
flare of M 1.6 began at about 10:40 UT according to SWPC data. An M 3.1 flare
was concluding at the time of the M 6.1 in the Kermadec Islands. These
may have promoted this event. Preliminary data on these flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4090 0948 0959 1010 C6.2 (February 4, 2026) 9.5E-03
Kermadec Islands M 6.1 10:40 UT
4120 1040 1055 1120 M1.5 (February 4, 2026) 8.0E-03 *
Oaxaca M 4.0 10:56 UT
Gulf of California M 3.6 10:51 UT
This epicenter is located at the eighth node (46 degrees) from the South
geomagnetic pole and at 106 degrees from TC Fytia and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 04FEB2026 10:39:29 29.6S 178.6W MW=6.1 NEIC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 04FEB2026 10:39:31 29.6S 178.6W MW=6.1 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 04FEB2026 00:03:05 31.4S 179.6W MW=4.4 NEIC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 04FEB2026 00:03:05 31.4S 179.7W MB=4.4 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
The strongest felt earthquake of the day was an M 5.5 in the northern Ryukyu Islands of
Japan. NEIC reported it was likely felt with intensity up to IV in the epicentra
area near Tatsugo, Japan. The last earthquake of M>=5.5 within about 200
km of this epicenter in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan was an M 5.6 on July 2, 2025
and befor that an M 5.7 on March 8, 2025.
O: 04FEB2026 18:20:43 29.2N 130.4E Mw=5.5 EMSC RYUKYU ISLANDS, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in El Salvador was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of El Salvador in Antiguo Cuscatlan, La Libertad.
EMSC reported moderat to strong shaking in El Salvador at Santa Tecla and San Salvador.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
It occurred near the start of an M 1.6 solar flare. SWPC gives preliminary
data for this flare as:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0540 0610 0630 M1.6 (February 5, 2026) 1.7E-02 *
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole,
and the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from
those sources.
O: 05FEB2026 05:39:47 13.2N 89.2W mb=4.8 EMSC OFFSHORE EL SALVADOR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 near Tokyo, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of near Tokyo, Japan with III in Yokohama, Kanagawa and II in Kamakura and Tokyo.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan.
O: 05FEB2026 00:19:46 35.6N 140.4E mb=4.6 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Southern Iran near Mohr was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Iran near Mohr.
This event occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by
geomagnetic effects. An M 5.2 hit near this epicenter on February 1, 2026.
It had been suggested that that event was triggered by a local explosion.
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Mindanao and Honshu and
may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 04FEB2026 17:17:50 27.3N 52.6E mb=4.7 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.4 in Southern
Alaska. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Elmendorf AFB, Sterling and Anchorage, Alaska with II in Kenai, Seward, and Girdwood.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter with M >= 4.4 occurred
as an M 6.0 on November 27, 2025 and today's event may be a regional aftershock
of that. At the time this summary noted:
A strong earthquake of M 6.0 shook the areas near Anchorage, and Elmendorf AFB, Alaska today.
More than 7000 responses from citizens in the area to NEIC revealed it was felt
with intensity V in Alaska at Anchorage, Talkeetna, Willow, Palmer, IV in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Chugia, Clam Gulch, Skwentana, Eagle River, Wasilla, Girdwood, Kenai, Elmendorf AFB, Fort Richarson, Indian, Cooper Landing, Kasilof, with intensity III as far as about 400 km from the epicenter.
No tsunami was expected nor observed with this earthquake. This earthquake
occurred at the peak of a high latitude geomagnetic storm with k-index of 7
and was probably promoted by that storm (see above). It is also near 100 degrees
from the earlier M 6.6 in Sumatra and the accompanying eye of Tropical Cyclone
Senyar today and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from northern Honshu, Japan today may have been promoted by energy
from those sources. This area has seen
a series of minor foreshocks in the past several days, but the last earthquake
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6 occurred on November 30, 2018 with M 7.0.
At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake of M 7.0 occurred near Anchorage, Alaska today. No deaths or tsunami were reported with the quake but much damage to infrastructure occurred. The area
has seen a continuing series of moderate to strong earthquakes over the past several months
and, as a high latitude quake, was part of the activation of high latitude
seismicity seen over the past two week. The year 2018 has been very active for Alaska.
A great earthquake of M 7.9 hit the Gulf of Alaska on January 23, 2018. This was
followed by an M 6.4 and series in northern Alaska beginning on August 12, 2018 and an M 6.6 on August 15, 2018 in the Andreanof Islands.
The last regional earthquake with M>=7 within about 300 km of today's epicenter
was an M 7.1 on January 24, 2016 about 300 km to the southwest at intermediate focus which prevented damage on January 24, 2016.
This summary at the time noted activity in Nebraska and other unusual seismicity
as precursory to this event. Interested readers are urged to revisit that and
other summaries for more information.
The current activation of seismicity at high latitudes began in mid-November as noted
in this summary and continued through late November. The initial activation
was noted as:
"A new geomagnetic storm may begin today and will help to shape the aftershocks
in Alaska.
NEIC reported the mainshock of M 7.0 was felt with damage with intensity VIII in Eagle River, VII in Willow, Trapper Creek, Chugiak, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Sterling, Palmer, Denali National Park, Elmendorf AFB, Anchorage, Light intensity shaking with intensity II-III was reported as far as 1000 km from the epicenter with intensity IV-V as far as 500 km from the epicenter including at Fairbanks and Kodiak. Many aftershocks were reported felt with intensity as high as VI, especially in the Anchorage, Chugiak, Elmendorf AFB, Fort Richardson, and Wasilla areas of Southern Alaska.
Initial reports indicate no one was killed in this earthquake. Roads and other
infrastructure was not as lucky however, Pictures on the internet show buckled
highways in the region. Highways into and out of Anchorage were closed and gas lines
were ruptured. Power was out to many. There was damage to roads and bridges but
no major structural collapses of buildings were reported. Portionis of the Glenn Highway
disappeared. Seiche was observed. Becase of wintry conditions, most of the repair
work will have to wait till Spring." (November 30, 2018)
An earthquake of M 6.1 also occurred about 200 km northeast of today's epicenter
on May 31, 2021 which was described in this summary at the time as:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.1 in the region of central Alaska. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity V in Alaska at Glennallen, Eagle River, and Talkeetna and IV in Maranuska-Sustina border, Palmer, Cantwell, Chugiak, Wasilla, Willow, and Fort Richardson.
An M 3.2 regional foreshock occurred about an hour earlier and was reported felt with intensity IV in Anchorage and II-III in Valdez, Seward, Fairbanks and Port Wainwright.
An earlier foreshock of M 3.4 was also felt with intensity II in Talkeetna and Chugiak, Alaska.
No major damage was reported from these earthquakes. The last earthquake in
Central Alaska within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=6.1 occurred on November 30, 2018
near Anchorage, Alaska with M 7.0 about 150 km southwest of today's epicenter.
The largest earthquake in the area in the past 30 years was an M 7.9 in the
Denali National Park on November 3, 2002 about 150 km northeast of today's epicenter.
Other earthquakes of M>=6.1 in the past 30 years occurred on September 25, 2014 (M 6.2);
October 23, 2002 (M 6.7) and May 1, 1991 (M 6.3). Forecast 134213 had expected today's event within about 100 km was likely
around May 27.
...
Today's event is located at 101-102 degrees from the M 6.6 in Sumatra of May 14, 2021"(May 31, 2021)
The last earthquake (and possible regional foreshock) near 200 km of today's
epicenter was an M 5.4 on October 30, 2025. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
"The strongest earthquake felt in the world today was an M 5.4 in the Kenai, Alaska area. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Alaska at Cooper Landing; IV in Homer, Anchor Point, Seward, Clam Gulch, Kenai, Soldotna, Moose Pass and III in Sterling and Girdwood.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Alaska at Diamond Ridge, Seward, Honer, MacDonald Spit, Seldovia, Bear Creek, Ninichik, Anchor Point, Funny River, Soldotna, Kenai, Nikiski, Girdwood, Anchorage, Eagle River.
No damage or casualties or tsunami was reported with this earthquake. The
last earthquake of M>=5.4 in the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska within abouot 200 km
of today's epicenter was an M 5.4 on March 19, 2023 with the last of larger magnitude
and M 5.8 more than six years ago on May 27, 2019.
...
The last earthquake of larger magnitude within about 200 km of today's event
occurred about 50 km south of today's epicenter on January 24, 2016 with M 7.1 and
prior to that an M 6.2 on July 29, 2015. Both of these events were associated
with strong solar outbursts. Today's earthquake occurred within minutes of
local solar noon (like the M 7.2 in Northern California yesterday) and
was likely promoted by strong tidal and geomagnetic stresses which maximize
near this hour." (December 21, 2021, March 19, 2023)
Today's event appears to have been triggered by a strong geomagnetic storm
at high latitudes. High latitude k-index reached 7 at the time of the earthquake
in Alaska. This is the greatest geomagnetic disturbance at high latitudes
since October 1, 2025 (nearly a month ago) when K also reached 7." (November 27, 2025)
Today's Alaskan earthquake was likely promoted by two solar flares - an X4.2 (#4160)
and an M1.8. The epicenter was near local solar midnight when the X4.2 flare
occurred and flare 4220 initiation occurred simultaneously with this earthquake
in Southern Alaska. Data for these flares from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4160 1202 1213 1218 X4.2 (February 4, 2026) 2.0E-01
Northern Italy M 2.6; France M 2.1, 2.1 12:09-12:24 UT
4220 1525 1534 1555 M1.8 (February 4, 2026) 2.1E-02
Southern Alaska M 3.3 15:25 UT
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 04FEB2026 15:24:45 61.5N 151.6W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in northern Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Mindanao, Philippines near Cortes, Philippines.
This event may have been promoted by Tropical Storm Penha as it made landfall today
in Mindanao near this epicenter. This was expected in this summary as:
"TS PENHA 2026-02-05 00:00 UT 08.2N 127.9E 50 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Storm Penha (Depression 02W) continued east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 50 kts. This system is expected to track to the west reaching Mindanao around February 5. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 8S 53W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time." (February 5, 2026)
O: 04FEB2026 07:11:29 9.4N 126.4E mb=4.9 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Albania was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Albania in Hocisht, Korce, Mborje, Pojan, Voskopoje, Pogradec, Tirana, Gramsh, Paskuqan; in Greece at Kozani and in North Macedonia at Resen, Ohrid, Lavci, Bitola.
Several foreshocks in the same area occurred. The largest of these was an M 3.8 which was widely felt.
O: 04FEB2026 22:10:59 40.6N 20.9E ML=4.0 EMSC ALBANIA
O: 04FEB2026 18:50:27 40.6N 20.9E ML=3.8 EMSC ALBANIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Antofagasta, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Antofagasta, Chile in Calama strongly.
O: 04FEB2026 17:43:03 23.9S 69.2W mb=4.2 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
O: 05FEB2026 03:05:17 21.4S 68.5W mb=4.1 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
O: 04FEB2026 08:01:54 22.1S 68.9W mb=4.8 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL STORM PENHA (DEPRESSION 02W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS PENHA 2026-02-05 00:00 UT 08.2N 127.9E 50 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Storm Penha (Depression 02W) continued east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 50 kts. This system is expected to track to the west reaching Mindanao around February 5. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 8S 53W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the Indian Ocean. This system is currently located at 14S 62E with winds up to 33 kts and moving SSW. It could promote regional seismic enhancement in Indian Ocean ridge systems. The antipode is at 14N 118W southwest of the Gulf of California. It is unlikely to trigger significant seismicity in this area off western Mexico at this time but some enhancement is possible in Baja and the Gulf of California, Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 4, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0350 0430 0520 M2.6 (February 5, 2026) 2.7E-02 *
XXXX 0540 0610 0630 M1.6 (February 5, 2026) 1.7E-02 *
XXXX 0751 0802 0806 C8.1 (February 5, 2026) 4.7E-03 *
3960 0102 0110 0116 M1.2 (February 4, 2026) 9.1E-03
Rat Is. M 3.4 01:19 UT
3970 0126 0139 0145 M1.4 (February 4, 2026) 1.8E-02
3980 0232 0239 0255 M4.9 (February 4, 2026) 5.8E-02
3990 0348 0355 0402 M2.1 (February 4, 2026) 1.4E-02
Albania M 2.7 03:47 UT
Oregon M 2.1 03:52 UT
El Salvador M 3.0 03:52 UT
4030 0615 0623 0635 C4.5 (February 4, 2026) 4.4E-03
Xizang M 4.9 06:26 UT
Kuril Is. M 4.7 06:46 UT
++
4040 0650 0655 0701 C3.5 (February 4, 2026) 2.2E-03
Mindanao M 4.9 07:11 UT
4060 0826 0838 0841 C3.7 (February 4, 2026) 2.9E-03
Honshu M 3.8 08:27 UT
4070 0850 0902 0911 C6.7 (February 4, 2026) 5.6E-03
4080 0912 0920 0923 M1.8 (February 4, 2026) 6.8E-03
No. Sumatra M 2.6 09:13 UT
4090 0948 0959 1010 C6.2 (February 4, 2026) 9.5E-03
Kermadec Islands M 6.1 10:40 UT
4120 1040 1055 1058 M1.5 (February 4, 2026) 8.0E-03
Oaxaca M 4.0 10:56 UT
Gulf of California M 3.6 10:51 UT
4130 1131 1135 1141 M1.1 (February 4, 2026) 6.8E-03
Gulf of California M 4.2 11:35 UT M4.2 11:34 UT
4160 1202 1213 1218 X4.2 (February 4, 2026) 2.0E-01
Northern Italy M 2.6; France M 2.1, 2.1 12:09-12:24 UT
4220 1525 1534 1555 M1.8 (February 4, 2026) 2.1E-02
Southern Alaska M 3.3 15:25 UT
4280 2019 2033 2040 C6.6 (February 4, 2026) 5.7E-03
Albania M 2.2 20:21 UT
4290 2142 2147 2154 C3.0 (February 4, 2026) 2.2E-03
So. Sumatra M 3.7 21:52 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active February 7 minor storms February 5-6. Solar M-flare chance: 80% X-class: 40% proton storm: 30%
AP Indicies: global: 11, high: 10, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 22:00 UT; Max AP: 4 Global Kp 5.33 0300-0600 UT February 5; 5 at high latitudes on February 4 around 1700-2000 UT; Sunspot Number: 166; Radio Flux: 167
A moderate geomagnetic storm may have begun around 02:00 UT on February 5. Global
Kp for the period increased to Kp 5.0 during this period (G1 geomagnetic storm).
The CME from the X8.1 flare is likely to reach the earth's magnetosphere
later in the UT day of February 5-6 and if it is strong could help trigger
significant seismicity at that time.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 4, 2026
UPDATE
A major solar flare of X4.2 occurred while this summary was being published.
Preliminary data from SWPC for this flare follows:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1200 1210 1245 X4.2 (February 4, 2026) 5.0E-01 *
This flare started when western Europe and the mid-Atlantic Ridge were near
local solar noon and the area of the Kermadec Islands, Tonga, Fiji, New Zealand
and the Rat and Andreanof Islands in the Aleutians were at local solar midnight.
These are the most likely areas to see enhanced seismicity with this flare.
Initially it appears that areas of western Europe were immediately affects
by this flare with M 2.1 and 2.4 in France and M 2.6 in northern Italy
at the start. An M 3.4 in Tarapaca, Chile at 12:00 UT also may have been promoted by
energy associated with this flare. Earthquakes of M 2.0 and 1.7 also occurred
in San Francisco near the start of this flare. A strong radio blackout (R3) is currently in progress).
Current NOAA models indicate that the CME from the X8.2 flare is likely to reach
earth late on UT February 4. A G1-G2 geomagnetic storm is expected with the
arrival of that CME. Areas where seismicity would most likely affected would include the western U.S.
Notable earthquakes and events:
The most unusual earthquake of the day was an M 4.9 in Antartica. While it was note
reported felt in this remote area, it is the strongest earthquake within about
500 km of this epicenter since an M 5.3 on July 23, 2008 and an M 5.6 on November 4, 2007.
These are the only two earthquakes recorded in this region in the past 35 years.
Seismic history for this region is limited to periods with modern instrumentation
but the complete record for this region shows no other such events in the
historical record of M>4.9 but an M 4.9 did occur on May 19, 1984.
At the time of the earthquake on November 4, 2007, this summary noted:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.8 hit the region of eastern Antarctica today in the area of the Sabrina Coast. This is a completely unprecedented earthquake. In the time since earthquakes have been recorded there have been none of M>=5.8 ever recorded south of 66 South latitude. Today's earthquake occurred at 67 South latitude making it the furthest south event of this size ever recorded. In addition, no earthquake of this size has ever been recorded within the continent of Antarctica. Most such events in the region occur north on the Pacific-Antarctic ridge which largely surrounds the continent. We can only speculate on the cause of this event. It may be related to loss of ice from the ice cap due to global warming which reduces the load on the continent. The complete lack of significant seismicity in Antarctica is probably in some way related to this load of ice and as it reduces, more rebound seismicity is likely to occur. If more earthquakes of this size or larger occur, it may aid in the breakup of the ice cap. This is a global concern and the area should be closely monitored in coming days. Data and analyses of this and other earthquakes which occurred today follow.
O: 4NOV2007 20:35:37 67.1S 111.6E MB=5.8 NEIS ANTARCTICA " (November 4, 2007)
Today's epicenter is near the South Geomagnetic Dip pole at 64S 135E. Today's event
may have been promoted by the major geomagnetic storm a week ago as lines
of geomagnetic force are perpendicular to the surface and solar wind
particles are drawn to this point on the earth's surface.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Fytia and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 04FEB2026 O0:30:29 67.5S 114.3E MW=4.9 NEIC ANTARCTICA
O: 04FEB2026 00:30:30 67.6S 114.2E MB=4.9 EMSC ANTARCTICA
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.1 in the Kermadec Islands, New Zealand.
NEIC reported it was probably felt with intensity up to IV in the epicentral area
despite its intermediate depth of 184 km. This epicenter occurred within about
an hour of local solar midnight and was likely promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic
stresses which maximize near this hour. A foreshock of M 4.4 occurred in the
Kermadec Islands within a few minutes of local solar noon and was probably
precursory to the larger M 6.1 near midnight.
A moderate solar flare accompanied the event in the Kermadec Islands. This
flare of M 1.6 began at about 10:40 UT according to SWPC data. An M 3.1 flare
was concluding at the time of the M 6.1 in the Kermadec Islands. These
may have promoted this event. Preliminary data on these flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1000 1010 1045 M3.1 (February 4, 2026) 5.0E-02 *
XXXX 1040 1050 1120 M1.7 (February 4, 2026) 3.0E-02 *
This epicenter is located at the eighth node (46 degrees) from the South
geomagnetic pole and at 106 degrees from TC Fytia and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 04FEB2026 10:39:29 29.6S 178.6W MW=6.1 NEIC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 04FEB2026 10:39:31 29.6S 178.6W MW=6.1 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 04FEB2026 00:03:05 31.4S 179.6W MW=4.4 NEIC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 04FEB2026 00:03:05 31.4S 179.7W MB=4.4 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
An earthquake of M 4.4 was widely felt in New Zealand today. NEIC reported it was
felt with intensity III in Wellington, New Zealand.
This event with epicenter in the Cook Strait between North and South Island occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted
by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
GeoNet reported the following parameters for this earthquake:
O: 03FEB2026 23:35:31 41.6S 174.2E ML=4.4 GEONET 1561 people reported feeling this earthquake with 943 at weak intensity and 563 with light shaking and 49 with moderate intensity 3 with strong, 1 with severe and 2 with extreme intensity.
O: 03FEB2026 23:35:30 41.7S 174.3E MW=4.4 NEIC COOK STRAIT, NEW ZEALAND
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 2.0-4.0 continued in the swarm near San Francisco, California and were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Danville, Dublin, San Ramon and II in San Mateo, Oakland, Concord, Pleasanton among others.
O: 04FEB2026 03:15:51 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 04FEB2026 11:06:44 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 07:47:33 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 17:01:02 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 20:49:46 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 21:45:26 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.9 in Myanmar west of Yenangyaung was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar west of Yenangyaung with IV in Co'xs Bazar, Bangladesh and Sagaing, Myanmar and in Blangla India at Rajpur, Chakdaha, Khardaha, Basirhat, II in Dacca, Bangladesh, Barabazar, India and in Myanmar at Pyinmana and Mandalay.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Myanmar at Pakokku, Myingyan, Mandalay, Indein, Shwebo, Yangon, Pyin Oo Lwin, Pyapon, and in Narayanganj, Dhaka, Azimput, Paltan, Rungi, Khulna, Jessore, Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, Monywa, and in India at Taki, Gopalpur, Dam Dam, Champahati, Kolkata, Madhyamgran, Garui, Laketown, Bara Bazar, Santoshpur, Sodpur, Khardah, Bali, Bishnupur, Konnagar, Barakpur, Santoshpur, Raha, Guwahati.
This event appears to have been triggered by an X-class solar flare as it
It was followed by an M 5.2 17 minutes later which was also felt in this area.
occurred towards the end of that flare. This is the strongest earthquake within
about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 6.8 on August 24, 2016. A major M 7.7 hit
about 300 km northeast of this epicenter on March 28, 2025 killing thousands
and doing massive damage in the area. At the time of the event in August, 2016 this summary
reviewed its history as follows:
"The earthquake in Burma/Myanmar of M 5.3 was the strongest event in the world today
and the largest within about 150 km of this epicenter since an M 6.9 on April 13, 2016
and is probably an aftershock of that earthquake. A strong earthquake about 150
km to the northwest of this also hit the area on January 3, 2016 (M 6.7)." (August 24, 2016)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Taiwan and the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those
sources.
O: 03FEB2026 15:34:01 20.5N 94.0E MW=5.9 NEIC MYANMAR
O: 03FEB2026 15:34:02 20.5N 94.0E MW=5.9 EMSC MYANMAR
O: 03FEB2026 15:51:29 20.6N 94.0E mb=5.2 EMSC MYANMAR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 near the east coast of Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of near the east coast of Honshu, Japan with III in Hitachi, Ibaraki; Tokyo, Tomisato, Chiba, Ageo Sairama and II in Kawasaki Kanagawa.
EMSC reported weak shaking in Japan at Urayasu, Tokyo.
O: 03FEB2026 09:03:23 36.8N 140.9E MB=5.0 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAP
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Antofagasta, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Antofagasta, Chile in Calama strongly.
O: 04FEB2026 08:01:54 22.1S 68.9W MB=4.8 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
O: 03FEB2026 16:39:59 22.9S 69.3W mb=4.5 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Arunachal Pradesh, India was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Arunachal Pradesh, India in Soalkuchi.
O: 04FEB2026 03:27:36 27.0N 92.3E ML=4.1 EMSC ARUNACHAL PRADESH, INDIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in northwestern Iran was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of northwestern Iran in Marand, Tabriz, Osku, Khowy, Orumiyeh, and in Yuksekova, Turkey.
O: 03FEB2026 19:01:41 38.3N 45.8E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTHWESTERN IRAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 2.3 in South Carolina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Summerville, Centerville, Sangaree, Ladson with a fumble.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in South Carolina at Charleston, Summerville, Ladson, Augusta and Goose Creek.
It occurred the day after a major coast nor'easter hit the region and may
have been promoted by energy associated with that storm.
O: 03FEB2026 16:24:58 33.0N 80.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTH CAROLINA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 02W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 02W 2026-02-04 00:00 UT 08.7N 132.6E 40 kts East of Mindanao, Philippines
Tropical Depression 02W formed east of Central Mindanao, Philippines today with winds up to 40 kts. This system is expected to track to the west reaching Mindanao around February 5-6. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Mindanao is is possible at this time as it is unstable at this time. The antipode at 8S 58W is in the area of northeastern Brazil, a non-seismic area - which is not expected to see seismicity at this time. This storm will probably dissipate in the next day before reaching antipodal locations near Southern California and the alert based on that antipodal possibility previously published in this summary is now cancelled for that region. Coming effects from a geomagnetic storm, however, could bring enhanced seismicity to the region in the next several days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE FYTIA (19S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC FYTIA 2026-02-04 00:00 UT 23.5S 54.9E 40 kts South-East of Madagascar
Tropical cyclone Fytia continued south-east of Madagascar with winds up to 40 kts today. This system is expected to track to the east and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region near Madagascar and the South Indian Ocean Ridges is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 125W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. This storm will probably dissipate in the next day before reaching antipodal locations near Southern California and the alert based on that antipodal possibility previously published in this summary is now cancelled for that region. Coming effects from a geomagnetic storm, however, could bring enhanced seismicity to the region in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 3, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1000 1010 1045 M3.1 (February 4, 2026) 5.0E-02
XXXX 1040 1050 1120 M1.7 (February 4, 2026) 3.0E-02
XXXX 1200 1210 1245 X4.5 (February 4, 2026) 5.0E-01 *
3600 0044 0049 0053 C7.8 (February 3, 2026) 4.4E-03
3640 0131 0149 0221 M1.5 (February 3, 2026) 3.5E-02
Peru M 4.4 02:08 UT
3660 0413 0422 0435 M1.7 (February 3, 2026) 1.5E-02
3670 0545 0555 0603 M2.6 (February 3, 2026) 1.6E-02
3680 0643 0701 0719 M7.2 (February 3, 2026) 7.4E-02
Rajasthan, India M 3.9 07:04 UT
So. Texas M 2.0 07:04 UT
3690 0743 0747 0752 M3.6 (February 3, 2026) 1.9E-02
Banda Sea M 4.0 07:55 UT
San Francisco M 2.6 07:47 UT
3710 0941 1012 1028 M3.6 (February 3, 2026) 6.1E-02
3750 1241 1249 1254 C4.0 (February 3, 2026) 3.1E-03
Utah M 2.2 12:43 UT
3760 1358 1408 1418 X1.5 (February 3, 2026) 9.4E-02
3770 1445 1456 1503 M7.2 (February 3, 2026) 5.6E-02
Myanmar M 5,9 15:34 UT
Indian-Antarctic Ridge M 5.1 15:38 UT
3810 1629 1636 1640 M2.1 (February 3, 2026) 1.4E-02
Southern California M 2.2 16:29 UT
Antofagasta M 3.4 16:40 UT
South Carolina M 2.4 16:25 UT
3820 1753 1808 1822 M2.5 (February 3, 2026) 3.6E-02
Veracruz Mexico M 4.3 18:13 UT
3850 1926 1933 1936 C7.8 (February 3, 2026) 4.4E-03
Tonga M 5.2 19:34 UT
3880 2050 2057 2108 C7.9 (February 3, 2026) 7.4E-03
San Francisco M 2.0 20:49 UT
3890 2133 2136 2141 C5.9 (February 3, 2026) 3.1E-03
New Guinea M 4.6 21:25 UT
3900 2231 2250 2256 M2.0 (February 3, 2026) 2.3E-02
New Ireland M 4.5 22:31 UT
West Chile Rise M 5.2 22:39 UT
3910 2256 2309 2320 M3.4 (February 3, 2026) 4.5E-02
Cook Strait, New Zealand M 4.4 23:35 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 4 minor storms February 5-6. Solar M-flare chance: 80% X-class: 40% proton storm: 30%
AP Indicies: global: 5, high: 4, mid-latitude: 3, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 3 Global Kp 2.00 1800-2100 UT; Sunspot Number: 171; Radio Flux: 178
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 3, 2026
A series of X-class solar flares occurred on February 1 late in the UT day.
These included X1.0, X2.5, X1.7 and X8.2 flares and could have a potential
to disrupt global seismicity patterns as CME from these flares arrives in
the terrestrial environment. The X8.2 flare is the strongest recorded on the
sun by SWPC since an X9.0 on October 3, 2024 (#5530) and an X8.7 on May 14, 2024 (#3010). These flares however are local and impulsive with little or no significant
of mass, unlike eruptive flares which emit much mass in a CME. This greatly
limits the expected effect of these flares on the earth environment despite
their high energy class. Furthermore they are located on the solar rim and
may not be directed towards earth. Subsequent solar observations have confirmed that a CME was
released with the X8.2 flare and is headed in an earthward direction. This
is expected to arrive on February 4 in the terrestrial environment. A strong
geomagnetic storm is possible with this CME. Sudden commencement of the
storm, if it occurs, could trigger enhanced seismicity especially near local
solar noon and midnight at the commencement time. Some effects on global seismicity are expected
due to their high energy, but at this time they not expected to be major.
For the moment immediate effects from these flares has been muted and included an M 5.2 in the western Aleutian Islands (Andreanof Islands)
at the peak of the X1.0 and an M 4.8 in Kashmir, Pakistan which was widely
felt near the end of the peak of the X8.2 and an unprecedented earthquake of
of M 4.8 in Crimea, Ukraine at the end of the latest flare. At the peak of this
flare an M 5.3-6.0 earthquake occurred south of South Island, New Zealand and
was probably promoted by that solar flare (see below for furthern details).
A series of light earthquakes in southern Texas has also apparently been
closely associated with these major flares. Data on these flares from SWPC
can be found in this summary below.
Notable earthquakes and events:
An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the Crimea region of Ukraine. This
is the strongest earthquake in Crimea within about 200 km of this epicenter
in at least 35 years. Earthquakes of M>=4.8 in Crimea were last reported
as an M 4.9 on August 8, 1875 with the only event of significatly larger
magnitude an M 5.7 on June 5, 1615. Most earthquakes in this region of M>5.9
occur about 200 km southwest of today's epicenter. An M 5.5 hit that region about 200 km east of this epicenter on
November 9, 2002.
While there is no evidence that this earthquake was directly triggered by
current hotly contested combat in this area, some studies have suggested
that earthquake activity is enhanced in regions where the earth is constantly
subject to man-made explosions. At M 5.2 or M 4.8 a single explosion is an
unlikely culprit. Such explosions rarely register with magnitude greater than
2.0. The largest - nuclear explosions can reach high 5's and even 6.0. An earthquake of M 5.2 in southern Iran
yesterday in the Bandar Abbas region - another war zone - leads to further
speculation whether a new type of weapon (sonic?) is somehow triggering
these seismic disturbances or if coincidence is a sufficient explanation
for these events. Some have also suggested the Iranian event was a triggered
earthquake from a test explosion, but while this is possible this has not been confirmed.
In the case of Ukraine, this event occurred towards the end of an X2 flare
and was at a longitude which was at maximum tidal stress with the full
moon at the time of occurrence. The occurrence time was within minutes of local
solar noon suggesting tidal and/or geomagnetic effects were effective in this
situation. EMSC reported this earthquake was felt in Ukraine with moderate
intensity at Lenino, Melitopol, Zarechnoye, Rozivka, Sevastopol, Dnipro, Kramators'k, and Odessa.
The full moon arrived on February 1, 2026 at 22:09 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar midnight at this time are located at about 27 East while those at local solar noon are near 153 West. In the east these include most of Europe and Iceland while in the west areas of the eastern Aleutians, southern Alaska, Hawaii. These are the most likely areas to see significant tidal triggering with this full moon. Other areas may also see tidal promotion in the next week especially at times of large solar flares and near local solar midnight and solar noon. The likelihood of a strong associated earthquake with this full moon are considerted to be moderate to high.
This epicenter in Crimea is located near the fifth node (72 degrees) from TC Fytia,
Taiwan, Honshu, Japan and Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive energy
interference from those sources.
O: 02FEB2026 09:47:52 45.7N 36.6E ML=4.8 EMSC CRIMEA REGION, UKRAINE
SWPC reported approximate parameters for the flare related to Crimea
as follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3320 0739 0814 0940 X1.6 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-01 *
Sulawesi M 4.4 07:55 UT
So. Island, New Zeaand M 6.0 08:15 UT
Crimea M 4.8 09:47 UT
3420 1449 1501 1514 M4.0 (February 2, 2026) 3.6E-02
San Francisco M 4.4 15:01 UT M 2.5 14:49 UT Swarm after and before M 4.4
O: 02FEB2026 09:47:52 45.7N 35.6E MB=4.8 EMSC CRIMEA REGION, UKRAINE
The series of light to moderate earthquakes continued today in the East San Francisco
Bay, California area with maximum magnitude of M 4.2-4.4. At least 45 earthquakes
of M>=2.0 have been recorded in this area near San Ramon, California in the
past 24 hours. This is the strongest series thus far in this swarm. A somewhat
similar but smaller series occurred on November 10-11, 2025. This followed
an X-flare on November 9, 2025. This situation was similar to what was seen
today with this series closely related to the series of X-class flares today.
At the time this summary made the connection between these events in the
San Francisco Bay area and major solar flares as:
"A series of light earthquakes shook the San Francisco Bay, California area today.
The largest of these was an M 3.8 according to NEIC. NEIC reported it and other
events in the area today were widely felt in the San Francisco Bay area. Intensity IV
was reported from San Ramon, Diablo, Danville, San Mateo, San Ramon and Dublin with III in Palo Alto, Berkeley, Pleasanton, San Leandro, Discovery Bay, Daly City, Lafayette, Alamo, Oakland, Fremont, Livermore, San Leandro, Concord, Richmond, Benicia, Miliptas, San Francisco, Alameda, Hercules, San Lorenzo, Oakland, Emeryville, Union city, Concord, among others.
This is the strongest earthquake in the region of the San Francisco Bay area
of California since an M 4.3 northwest of this epicenter on September 22, 2025
but the last earthquake nearer to this epicenter of M>=3.8 was an M 3.9 on March 18, 2025
with these two earthquakes the only such event in the area in the past year.
At the time of the M 4.3 on September 22, 2025, this summary noted in part:
"Today's earthquake of M 4.3 in San Francisco, California is the strongest
recorded within about 50 km of San Francisco since an M 4.5 two years ago on
October 15, 2019. At the time this summary noted:
"The activity in San Francisco began several hours before local solar midnight
and was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses associated with the full moon
...
The last event in the San Francisco Bay area within about 75 km of today's epicenter
which exceeded M 4.5 occurred on August 24, 2014 when an M 6.0 hit the Napa area.
The last within the San Francisco Bay area was an M 5.6 more than 11 years ago on October 31, 2007." (October 15, 2019)
The last earthquake felt in this area of San Francisco (M 3.3) occurred on September 15 at the beginning of the strong geomagnetic storm aand
was noted in this summary as:
"A light earthquake of M 3.3 was widely felt in the San Francisco, California area today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Central California at Danville, Antioch, Brentwood, Clayton, Concord, Pittsburg, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Novato and Santa Rosa with II shking in Salinas, Mountain View, San Francisco, Discovery Bay, Concord, Hayward, Livermore, Oakley, Dublin, San Ramon, Walnut Creek, Oakland, Santa Clara, Stockton, Oakdale, Wilton and Sacramento.
EMSC reported a quick shake in California at Antioch, Pittsburg, Clayton, Brentwood, Bay Point, Waldon, and Concord.
This event occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal
stresses which maximize near this hour. The last event within about 50 km
of this epicenter in the San Francisco, California area with M>=3.2 occurred
on June 9, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"A light M 3.2 was widely felt today in the area of San Francisco, California. NEIC receieved nearly 5000 felt reports from this event. These include maximum intensity IV in Half Moon Bay, Crockett, Hercules, Pinole, Port Costa, Rodeo, Berkeley, El Sobrante and III in Miramonte, Redwood City, Sunnyvale, San Francisco, San Mateo, American Canyon, Benicia, El Cerrito, Fairfield, Martinez, Napa, Orinda, Vallejo, Oakland, Albany, Richmond, San Pablo, San Rafael, Fairfax, Mill Valley, San Jose, Daly City, among others." (June 9, 2025, September 22, 2025)
The area of San Francisco was at exactly midnight local solar time when the
X1.7 flare occurred earlier in the day. This had been noted in the previous
issue of this summary as:
"It is of some interest that the X1.7 flare which appears to have triggered the
M 6.8 in Northern Honshu, Japan occurred while the area of San Francisco
and the western U.S. was near local solar midnight. This summary has
argued on several recent previous occasions that such a flare could trigger
a moderate earthquake in that area. Readers should be aware of this possibility
in the next several days. This was noted on October 26 issue of this
summary as:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in Big Sur.
This continues a series of light earthquakes in Central California over the
past several days which has included a series in northern and southern San
Francisco Bay. As these events area located near 103 degrees from the
recent earthquakes in Mindanao and Leyte of M>7 it is likely they are
being promoted by energy from those sources. A moderate to strong earthquake
in this area of California is still considered likely in the near future.
Such a quake is most likely near local solar noon or midnight in conjuction
with a strong M- or X-class solar flare." (October 26, 2025, November 9, 2025)
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4640 0654 0733 0843 X1.7 (November 9, 2025) 3.2E-01 *
Honshu M 6.8 08:03 UT
Andreanof Is. M 4.0 07:49 UT
Honshu M 4.5 07:36 UT
Ryukyu M 3.7 07:34 UT
Spain M 2.8 07:29 UT
Santa Barbara M 2.5 07:16 UT
Oaxaca M 4.5 07:06 UT
Taiwan M 4.1 07:01 UT
4720 1651 XXXX 1735 RSP (November 9, 2025) 4.4E-03
4730 1748 1807 1810 C3.4 (November 9, 2025) 4.4E-03
San Francisco M 2.3 18:00 UT M 2.3 17:48 UT M 3.8 17:39 UT
It is likely that the mainshock was promoted by SFE related to these
two solar flares." (November 10, 2025)
The X1.6 flare maximized near 08:14 UT, a time when western U.S. is at local
solar midnight and subject to Solar Flare effects. It should not come as
a surprise to readers, therefore that events of M 3.7-3.9 and M 4.4 occurred in San Francisco
California after this flare as San Francisco was at local solar midnight
when this flare reached its maximum output. In particular, the M 4.4 earthquake
at 15:01 UT exactly coincides with the maximum output of an M 4.0 flare. The M 3.7 was followed by aftershocks
including an M 4.4 and M 3.3. EMSC reported these events with loud noise and lots of shaking in San Ramon, Blackhawk, Dublin, Diablo, Pleasanton, Castro Valley, Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, Fremont, Pacheco, Martinez, Sunnyvale and Vallejo, California.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in California at Danville, San Ramon, Fremont, Concord, Dublin, Burlingame and III in Walnut Creek and Pleasanton.
This is the one of the strongest event to date in the series of quakes in eastern San Francisco Bay near San Ramon.
Similar events occurred starting with an M 3.9 on March 18, 2025 and continued with
quakes of M 3.8-4.0 on November 9 and December 20-21, 2025. The largst of these was an M 4.0 on December 20, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"The swarm near San Ramon east of San Francisco, California continued today.
The largest of today's events was an M 3.8. NEIC reported it was felt with
intensity IV in California at San Ramon, Dublin, Castro Valley, San Jose, Pleasanton, Danville, and II in Walnut Creek, San Anselmo and San Francisco.
Other events in the swarm were felt with intensity upt o IV in San Lorenzo, and III in Castro Valley, Dublin, San Ramon, Alamda, San
Bruno, Danville and II in Pleasanton, Hayward, and Morago. A widespread
power outage also occurred in San Francisco today but was probably not
related to the current elevated seismicity in that area. This summary
had reported last on this swarm in the previous issue as:
"The major swarm of light to moderate earthquakes in the eastern San Francisco
California Bay area today included several events of M 4.0 and M 3.8-3.9 which
were widely felt. NEIC reported more than 2000 people responded to them with
felt reports from each of these events. These included intensity V in California at Lafayette,
Hayward, IV in Brentwood, San Lorenzo, Oakland, San Jose, San Ramon, Vallejo, Union City, Alamo, Dublin, San Francisco and III in Millbrae, Fremont and Pleasanton among others." (December 20, 2025)
These epicenters are located at 102 degrees from central Philippines and at the
fifth node (72 degrees) from Hokkaido and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources." (December 20-21, 2025)
The swarm of earthquakes in San Francisco is continuing at this writing. The most
recent was an M 3.4 which NEIC reported was felt with intensity V in San Ramon, IV in Danville, III in Walnut Creek, Livermore, Concord, Dublin, Union City, and Pleasanton, California.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate intensity in California at San Ramon,
Blackhawk, Dublin, Diablo, Saranap, Fremont, Mission District.
O: 02FEB2026 15:01:14 37.8N 121.9W ML=4.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 02FEB2026 15:01:14 37.8N 121.9W ML=4.2 NEIC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 03FEB2026 05:06:14 37.4N 121.8W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:07:07 37.7N 122.0W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:27:45 37.7N 121.9W Mw=3.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:48:26 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 18:32:42 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 18:51:08 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 22:00:29 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 23:08:07 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:29:56 37.8N 121.9W ML=3.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:32:34 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:39:05 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:48:57 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:56:17 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:01:14 37.8N 121.9W Mw=4.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:03:56 37.8N 122.0W ML=2.7 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:06:14 37.8N 121.9W ML=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:09:56 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:14:57 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:23:04 37.8N 121.9W ML=2.9 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:26:24 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:32:47 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:34:56 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:36:06 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:40:12 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:41:13 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:42:01 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 15:54:08 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 16:19:42 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 16:44:10 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 17:03:42 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 19:02:46 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 20:17:44 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 22:06:59 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 22:38:49 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 22:56:14 37.8N 121.9W ML=3.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 23:04:19 37.8N 122.0W ML=3.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 23:06:39 37.8N 122.0W ML=2.9 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 23:09:22 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 00:26:08 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 01:24:36 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 01:42:46 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 04:30:06 37.8N 121.9W ML=3.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 03FEB2026 06:34:55 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.3 (EMSC) to M 6.0 (GeoNet)
in the Snares Island area south of South Island, New Zealand.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 west of South Island, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of west of South Island, New Zealand in Invercargill.
EMSC reported a light shaking with earthquake noise in Invercargill.
GeoNet gave this event ML 6.0 with the following parameters:
O: 02FEB2026 08:15:42 46.7S 165.8E ML=6.0 GEONET Felt by 92 persons in southern South Island, New Zealand. Felt with weak intensity by 72, with light intensity by 18 and with moderate intensity by 2.
This earthquake appears to have been triggered by CME from a strong X1.6 solar
flare (#3320) as it occurred at the peak output of that flare as given in
data from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3320 0739 0814 0840 X1.6 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-01
Sulawesi M 4.4 07:55 UT
So. Island, New Zealand M 6.0 08:15 UT
The last earthquake of M>=6 in the Snares Island region of New Zealand occurred
with M 6.3 on July 7, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.3 occurred today in the Snares Island region south of South Island, New Zealand. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to V in Southland, New Zealand at Wallacetown and IV in Invercargill and III in Te Anau and Queenstown, Otago with lesser shaking in Dunedin, Wyndham. No tsunami was expected nor observed.
GeoNet reported it with M up to M 6.7 with the following parameters:
O: 07JUL2025 12:53:41 47.3S 165.5E ML=6.7 GEONET Felt weakly by 564 and lightly by 545 respondents , with moderate shaking by 86, Strong 2 and severe 1 in Southern South Island and in Snares Island, New Zealand.
O: 07JUL2025 14:14:32 47.3S 165.8E ML=4.8 GEONET Not immediately reported felt.
O: 07JUL2025 15:07:46 47.3S 165.6E ML=4.3 GEONET Felt with weak intensity by 4 persons.
The M 4.3 aftershock was felt with weak intensity by 4 persons.
This is the strongest earthquake in the Snares Island area within about 200 km
since an M 6.7 on March 25, 2025 and is the strongest aftershock of that event to date. At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake occurred with M 6.8-7.0 off the southern coast of South Island, New Zealand today.
GeoNet noted that 4726 reports of felt events were made of which 2318 reported weak and 1895 light intensity with 440 reports of moderate shaking and 63 with strong and 3 severe and 6 with extreme intensity came from the area. Strong currents were expected with this earthquake by GeoNet.
NEIC reported it was felt widely in Australia and New Zealand. Intensity V was reported at Tuatapere, Southland, New Zealand with IV as far as 1300 km north in Auckland and closer to the epicenter in Otago at Queenstown, Otago, Roxburgh, and in Southland at Bluff, Invercargill, Mamapouri, and Te Anau. Intensity III was reported in Australia at Queensland at Toowoomba, Ulverstone and in Otago and Southland, New Zealand at Arrowtown, Wanaka, Gore, Clyde, with II in Cromwell, Dunedin, Milton, Lumsden and Nelson.
EMSC reported long, hard shaking in Invercargill, New Zealand. An aftershock of M 5.5 followed. The earthquake occurred within minutes of local
solar noon, a time when geomagnetic sudden commencement storms and tidal stresses
maximize their effects on earth systems and that may have been the case in
this situation. A strong geomagnetic storm was in progress when the event
occurred and tidal stresses are strong with the upcoming full moon and eclipse
of March 29, 2025.
Earthquakes of M>=7 often trigger tsunamis but the tectonics of this region
suggest that such a tsunami would be minor if it occurred. News reports suggested
fear of a tsunami but did not indicate a tsunami had occurred.
This may have been promoted by the strong geomagnetic storm currently in progress
...
The last earthquake within about 250 km of today's epicenter in New Zealand
with magnitude equal or larger than M 6.7 occurred on July 15, 2009 with M 7.7.
Other such events in the past 35 years have hit the area on November 22, 2004 (M 7.0-7.1), August 21, 2003 (M 7.0)
and August 10, 1993 (M 7.0). At the time of the M 7.7 on July 15, 2009 this
summary noted:
"A very strong earthquake of M 7.6 hit off the southwest coast of New Zealand today
in the Fiordland region of South Island. It was followed later in the day
by an M 6.1 in the region of New Ireland, P.N.G. There were no reports of
damage or casualties in New Ireland where the quake hit southwest of
the town of Kavieng according to AFP. The New Zealand earthquake was felt strongly
on South Island and caused minor damage but no major damage or casualties
according to initial reports. It was followed by at least 10 moderate to
strong aftershocks of M 5.2, 5.4, 5.2 and 5.8 which were generally fel with
intensity up to IV for the larger and IV-V for the more moderate events
in general at Invercargill and Gore, New Zealand. An M 5.4 aftershock off the
coast was reported felt with intensity VI at Te Anau. A foreshock
about 100 km to the northeast occurred on July 12 with M 4.0 in the Haast
area according to GeoNet and was reported on here. GeoNet initially reported
the earthquake as an M 6.6 but revised the moment magnitude to M 7.8 later.
That agency reported the earthquake was widely felt in the South Island and
as far north as Taranaki. An aftershock about 20 minutes after the mainshock
of M 5.8-6.1 was also felt on the southern South Island according to GeoNet.
NEIC reported maximum intensity VI at Tuatapere and Te Anau, Southland, N.Z. with intensity
V at Bluff, Edendale, Greymouth, Lumsden, and Winton, Southland, N.Z. Intensity
IV was reported generally within about 200 km but as far as 600 km from the epicenter at Wyndham, Westport, Wanaka,
Stirling, Riversdale, Queenstown, Outram, Invercargill, Balclutha and Arrowtown.
Lesser intensities were felt on North Island as far as Auckland 1200 km to the
north and in Sydney, Australia nearly 2000 km to the northwest. The M 5.8-6.1
aftershock was also reported felt with intensity VI at Tuatapere and IV at Queenstown,
Otago as well as within about 500 km of the epicenter. A tsunami alert was
issued but the maximum size of the tsunami thus far reported was about 20 cm.
At Jackson Bay and Bluff the tsunami arrived about 30 minutes after the quake and measured
about 17 cm. The tsunami was also observed across the Tasman Sea in Sydney. The
Australian Bureau of Meteorology reported a tsunami was felt along the coast
in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Lord Howe and Norfolk Island and
several waves and strong currents were detected mostly with heights of 20-30 cm.
Tsunamis in this area are generally not large and seldom are
damaging. Some power outages occurred with the quake. There were some reports
of downed power and phone lines in east Invercargill and Otatara and cracks in houses at Invercargil and Wanaka. Residents
in Queenstown ran into the streets in panic. The quake was described as
strong and rolling motion. It is quite possible that the quake added stress
to other faults along the Alpine Fault system bringing some closer to rupture.
A major break on the Alpine fault may be overdue and could come sooner rather
than later following today's earthquake. A strong earthquake hit the same region on August
22, 2003 with M 7.1. It caused significant landslides in part of South Island.
Similar earthquakes of M 7.0-7.1 hit the region on August 10, 1993 and November
22, 2004 but this is apparently the strongest earthquake in the region since
an M 8.0 in 1826, although the magnitude of that event is questionable.
This is the second largest earthquake to occur in the 500 year history of
New Zealand. The largest was an M 8.2 which hit in 1855 and killed eight
in the area of Wellington and Wairarapa. A similar M 7.8 hit in Hawke's Bay 78 years
ago and killed 256 people. The entire city of Napier was flattened. In 1929 an M 7.8
earthquake hit Buller killing 15 people." (March 25, 2025)
The earthquake of M 6.7 in southern New Zealand on March 25, 2025 kicked off
a series of major earthquakes around the world, the last such series. This
could occur again in the next week as a three month quiet in global seismicity
is rare.
The mainshock occurred with several minutes of local solar midnight and
may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near
this hour." (July 7, 2025)
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from Kamchatka and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Fytia and from Honshu
Japan and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from
those sources.
O: 02FEB2026 08:20:33 46.7S 165.7E ML=4.2 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z.
O: 02FEB2026 08:15:42 46.6S 165.6E MW=5.3 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
O: 02FEB2026 08:15:42 46.6S 165.6E ML=6.0 GeoNet OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Eastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Eastern Honshu, Japan in Sendai, Miyagi.
O: 02FEB2026 21:58:49 37.6N 142.4E MB=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 in Northern Kansas was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Kansas with III in Hays and II in Manhattan.
O: 02FEB2026 16:48:12 39.0N 99.4W ML=2.9 EMSC KANSAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Tarapaca, Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tarapaca, Chile in Iquique.
O: 03FEB2026 00:06:41 20.7S 70.1W MB=4.3 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay.
O: 03FEB2026 06:12:03 22.0N 96.1E ML=4.2 EMSC MYANMAR
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Bangladesh was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Bangladesh in Satkhira, Khulna, Paltan, Tungi.
O: 02FEB2026 22:36:46 22.8N 89.0E ML=4.1 EMSC BANGLADESH
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Valparaiso, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Valparaiso, Chile in Llaillay, Providencia, Villa Alemana, Vina del Mar.
O: 02FEB2026 13:40:06 32.7S 70.5W MW=4.4 EMSC VALPARAISO, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE FYTIA (19S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC FYTIA 2026-02-03 00:00 UT 23.3S 54.0E 70 kts South-East of Madagascar
Tropical cyclone Fytia continued south-east of Madagascar with winds up to 70 kts today. This system is expected to track to the east and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region near Madagascar and the South Indian Ocean Ridges is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 126W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. This storm will probably dissipate before reaching antipodal locations near Southern California and the alert based on that antipodal possibility previously published in this summary is now cancelled for that region. Coming effects from a geomagnetic storm, however, could bring enhanced seismicity to the region in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 2, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3240 0031 0036 0040 X2.8 (February 2, 2026) 1.2E-01
3260 0235 0242 0244 M4.4 (February 2, 2026) 2.0E-02
3270 0245 0251 0259 M5.2 (February 2, 2026) 4.2E-02
JuJuy Argentina M 3.0 02:46 UT
Chiapas M 4.3 02:57 UT
3280 0344 0346 0349 M1.9 (February 2, 2026) 6.8E-03
3290 0439 0447 0456 M3.0 (February 2, 2026) 2.3E-02
Mindanao M 4.0 04:40 UT
3300 0510 0516 0519 M1.6 (February 2, 2026) 1.3E-02
3310 0519 0527 0535 M2.3 (February 2, 2026) 2.2E-02
Kamchatka M 4.5 05:28 UT
Papua M 3.8 05:25 UT
3320 0739 0814 0840 X1.6 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-01
Sulawesi M 4.4 07:55 UT
So. Island, New Zeaand M 5.3 08:15 UT
3330 1017 1024 1034 M1.9 (February 2, 2026) 1.8E-02
Greece M 3.7 10:34 UT
Gulf of California M 3.6 10:43 UT
So. Texas M 2.0 10:38 UT
3340 1115 1124 1130 M6.7 (February 2, 2026) 4.0E-02
Southern Texas M 2.4 11:37 UT
3400 1332 1339 1343 M1.1 (February 2, 2026) 7.1E-03
Valparaiso M 4.4 13:40 UT
3420 1449 1501 1514 M4.0 (February 2, 2026) 3.6E-02
San Francisco M 4.4 15:01 UT M 2.5 14:49 UT Swarm after and before M 4.4
3430 1703 1710 1730 M2.3 (February 2, 2026) 3.0E-02
San Francisco M 2.5 17:03 UT
Solomon Is. M 4.6 17:29 UT
3440 1826 1829 1831 M2.3 (February 2, 2026) 6.4E-03
San Francisco M 2.0 18:32 UT
So. Texas M 2.118:36 UT
West of Australia M 2.7 18:33 UT
3490 1941 2005 2032 M2.9 (February 2, 2026) 6.9E-02
3530 2052 2108 2117 M3.3 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-02
3560 2310 2319 2321 C7.2 (February 2, 2026) 7.8E-03
San Francisco M 2.9, 2.4, 2.2 23:07-23:10 UT
3610 2321 2327 2331 M2.5 (February 2, 2026) 1.1E-02
Argentina M 4.1 23:34 UT
Washington M 2.8 23:32 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 3-4 minor storms February 5. Solar M-flare chance: 80% X-class: 40% proton storm: 50%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 3, mid-latitude: 4, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 2 Global Kp 2.67 0300-0600 UT; Sunspot Number: 131; Radio Flux: 174
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 2, 2026
A series of X-class solar flares occurred on February 1 late in the UT day.
These included X1.0, X2.5, X1.7 and X8.2 flares and could have a potential
to disrupt global seismicity patterns as CME from these flares arrives in
the terrestrial environment. The X8.2 flare is the strongest recorded on the
sun by SWPC since an X9.0 on October 3, 2024 (#5530) and an X8.7 on May 14, 2024 (#3010). These flares however are local and impulsive with little or no significant
of mass, unlike eruptive flares which emit much mass in a CME. This greatly
limits the expected effect of these flares on the earth environment despite
their high energy class. Furthermore they are located on the solar rim and
may not be directed towards earth. Subsequent solar observations have confirmed that a CME was
released with the X8.2 flare and is headed in an earthward direction. This
is expected to arrive on February 4 in the terrestrial environment. A strong
geomagnetic storm is possible with this CME. Sudden commencement of the
storm, if it occurs, could trigger enhanced seismicity especially near local
solar noon and midnight at the commencement time. Some effects on global seismicity are expected
due to their high energy, but at this time they not expected to be major.
For the moment immediate effects from these flares has been muted and included an M 5.2 in the western Aleutian Islands (Andreanof Islands)
at the peak of the X1.0 and an M 4.8 in Kashmir, Pakistan which was widely
felt near the end of the peak of the X8.2 and an unprecedented earthquake of
of M 4.8 in Crimea, Ukraine at the end of the latest flare. At the peak of this
flare an M 5.3 earthquake occurred south of South Island, New Zealand and
was probably promoted by that solar flare (see below for furthern details).
A series of light earthquakes in southern Texas has also apparently been
closely associated with these major flares. Data on these flares from SWPC
can be found in this summary below.
Notable earthquakes and events:
An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the Crimea region of Ukraine. This
is the strongest earthquake in Crimea within about 200 km of this epicenter
in at least 35 years. Earthquakes of M>=4.8 in Crimea were last reported
as an M 4.9 on August 8, 1875 with the only event of significatly larger
magnitude an M 5.7 on June 5, 1615. Most earthquakes in this region of M>5.9
occur about 200 km southwest of today's epicenter. An M 5.5 hit that region about 200 km east of this epicenter on
November 9, 2002.
While there is no evidence that this earthquake was directly triggered by
current hotly contested combat in this area, some studies have suggested
that earthquake activity is enhanced in regions where the earth is constantly
subject to man-made explosions. At M 5.2 or M 4.8 a single explosion is an
unlikely culprit. Such explosions rarely register with magnitude greater than
2.0. The largest - nuclear explosions can reach high 5's and even 6.0. An earthquake of M 5.2 in southern Iran
yesterday in the Bandar Abbas region - another war zone - leads to further
speculation whether a new type of weapon (sonic?) is somehow triggering
these seismic disturbances or if coincidence is a sufficient explanation
for these events. Some have also suggested the Iranian event was a triggered
earthquake from a test explosion, but while this is possible this has not been confirmed.
In the case of Ukraine, this event occurred towards the end of an X2 flare
and was at a longitude which was at maximum tidal stress with the full
moon at the time of occurrence. The occurrence time was within minutes of local
solar noon suggesting tidal and/or geomagnetic effects were effective in this
situation. EMSC reported this earthquake was felt in Ukraine with moderate
intensity at Lenino, Melitopol, Zarechnoye, Rozivka, Sevastopol, Dnipro, Kramators'k, and Odessa.
The full moon arrived on February 1, 2026 at 22:09 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar midnight at this time are located at about 27 East while those at local solar noon are near 153 West. In the east these include most of Europe and Iceland while in the west areas of the eastern Aleutians, southern Alaska, Hawaii. These are the most likely areas to see significant tidal triggering with this full moon. Other areas may also see tidal promotion in the next week especially at times of large solar flares and near local solar midnight and solar noon. The likelihood of a strong associated earthquake with this full moon are considerted to be moderate to high.
This epicenter in Crimea is located near the fifth node (72 degrees) from TC Fytia,
Taiwan, Honshu, Japan and Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive energy
interference from those sources.
O: 02FEB2026 09:47:52 45.7N 36.6E ML=4.8 EMSC CRIMEA REGION, UKRAINE
SWPC reported approximate parameters for the flare related to Crimea
as follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3320 0739 0814 0940 X1.6 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-01 *
Sulawesi M 4.4 07:55 UT
So. Island, New Zeaand M 6.0 08:15 UT
Crimea M 4.8 09:47 UT
3420 1449 1501 1514 M4.0 (February 2, 2026) 3.6E-02
San Francisco M 4.4 15:01 UT M 2.5 14:49 UT Swarm after and before M 4.4
O: 02FEB2026 09:47:52 45.7N 35.6E MB=4.8 EMSC CRIMEA REGION, UKRAINE
the X1.6 flare maximized near 08:14 UT, a time when western U.S. is at local
solar midnight and subject to Solar Flare effects. It should not come as
a surprise to readers, therefore that events of M 3.7-3.9 and M 4.4 occurred in San Francisco
California after this flare as San Francisco was at local solar midnight
when this flare reached its maximum output. In particular, the M 4.4 earthquake
at 15:01 UT exactly coincides with the maximum output of an M 4.0 flare. The M 3.7 was followed by aftershocks
including an M 4.4 and M 3.3. EMSC reported these events with loud noise and lots of shaking in San Ramon, Blackhawk, Dublin, Diablo, Pleasanton, Castro Valley, Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, Fremont, Pacheco, Martinez, Sunnyvale and Vallejo, California.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in California at Danville, San Ramon, Fremont, Concord, Dublin, Burlingame and III in Walnut Creek and Pleasanton.
This is the one of the strongest event to date in the series of quakes in eastern San Francisco Bay near San Ramon.
Similar events occurred starting with an M 3.9 on March 18, 2025 and continued with
quakes of M 3.8-4.0 on November 9 and December 20-21, 2025. The largst of these was an M 4.0 on December 20, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"The swarm near San Ramon east of San Francisco, California continued today.
The largest of today's events was an M 3.8. NEIC reported it was felt with
intensity IV in California at San Ramon, Dublin, Castro Valley, San Jose, Pleasanton, Danville, and II in Walnut Creek, San Anselmo and San Francisco.
Other events in the swarm were felt with intensity upt o IV in San Lorenzo, and III in Castro Valley, Dublin, San Ramon, Alamda, San
Bruno, Danville and II in Pleasanton, Hayward, and Morago. A widespread
power outage also occurred in San Francisco today but was probably not
related to the current elevated seismicity in that area. This summary
had reported last on this swarm in the previous issue as:
"The major swarm of light to moderate earthquakes in the eastern San Francisco
California Bay area today included several events of M 4.0 and M 3.8-3.9 which
were widely felt. NEIC reported more than 2000 people responded to them with
felt reports from each of these events. These included intensity V in California at Lafayette,
Hayward, IV in Brentwood, San Lorenzo, Oakland, San Jose, San Ramon, Vallejo, Union City, Alamo, Dublin, San Francisco and III in Millbrae, Fremont and Pleasanton among others." (December 20, 2025)
These epicenters are located at 102 degrees from central Philippines and at the
fifth node (72 degrees) from Hokkaido and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources." (December 20-21, 2025)
O: 02FEB2026 14:27:00 37.8N 121.9W ML=3.7 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 02FEB2026 14:27:00 37.8N 121.9W ML=3.9 NEIC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 02FEB2026 15:01:14 37.8N 121.9W ML=4.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 02FEB2026 15:01:14 37.8N 121.9W ML=4.2 NEIC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 02FEB2026 15:27:45 37.7N 121.9W ML=3.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA
O: 02FEB2026 14:29:56 37.8N 121.9W ML=3.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:32:34 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02FEB2026 14:39:05 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.3 (EMSC) to M 6.0 (GeoNet)
in the Snares Island area south of South Island, New Zealand.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 west of South Island, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of west of South Island, New Zealand in Invercargill.
EMSC reported a light shaking with earthquake noise in Invercargill.
GeoNet gave this event ML 6.0 with the following parameters:
O: 02FEB2026 08:15:42 46.7S 165.8E ML=6.0 GEONET Felt by 92 persons in southern South Island, New Zealand. Felt with weak intensity by 72, with light intensity by 18 and with moderate intensity by 2.
This earthquake appears to have been triggered by CME from a strong X1.6 solar
flare (#3320) as it occurred at the peak output of that flare as given in
data from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3320 0739 0814 0840 X1.6 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-01
Sulawesi M 4.4 07:55 UT
So. Island, New Zealand M 6.0 08:15 UT
The last earthquake of M>=6 in the Snares Island region of New Zealand occurred
with M 6.3 on July 7, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.3 occurred today in the Snares Island region south of South Island, New Zealand. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to V in Southland, New Zealand at Wallacetown and IV in Invercargill and III in Te Anau and Queenstown, Otago with lesser shaking in Dunedin, Wyndham. No tsunami was expected nor observed.
GeoNet reported it with M up to M 6.7 with the following parameters:
O: 07JUL2025 12:53:41 47.3S 165.5E ML=6.7 GEONET Felt weakly by 564 and lightly by 545 respondents , with moderate shaking by 86, Strong 2 and severe 1 in Southern South Island and in Snares Island, New Zealand.
O: 07JUL2025 14:14:32 47.3S 165.8E ML=4.8 GEONET Not immediately reported felt.
O: 07JUL2025 15:07:46 47.3S 165.6E ML=4.3 GEONET Felt with weak intensity by 4 persons.
The M 4.3 aftershock was felt with weak intensity by 4 persons.
This is the strongest earthquake in the Snares Island area within about 200 km
since an M 6.7 on March 25, 2025 and is the strongest aftershock of that event to date. At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake occurred with M 6.8-7.0 off the southern coast of South Island, New Zealand today.
GeoNet noted that 4726 reports of felt events were made of which 2318 reported weak and 1895 light intensity with 440 reports of moderate shaking and 63 with strong and 3 severe and 6 with extreme intensity came from the area. Strong currents were expected with this earthquake by GeoNet.
NEIC reported it was felt widely in Australia and New Zealand. Intensity V was reported at Tuatapere, Southland, New Zealand with IV as far as 1300 km north in Auckland and closer to the epicenter in Otago at Queenstown, Otago, Roxburgh, and in Southland at Bluff, Invercargill, Mamapouri, and Te Anau. Intensity III was reported in Australia at Queensland at Toowoomba, Ulverstone and in Otago and Southland, New Zealand at Arrowtown, Wanaka, Gore, Clyde, with II in Cromwell, Dunedin, Milton, Lumsden and Nelson.
EMSC reported long, hard shaking in Invercargill, New Zealand. An aftershock of M 5.5 followed. The earthquake occurred within minutes of local
solar noon, a time when geomagnetic sudden commencement storms and tidal stresses
maximize their effects on earth systems and that may have been the case in
this situation. A strong geomagnetic storm was in progress when the event
occurred and tidal stresses are strong with the upcoming full moon and eclipse
of March 29, 2025.
Earthquakes of M>=7 often trigger tsunamis but the tectonics of this region
suggest that such a tsunami would be minor if it occurred. News reports suggested
fear of a tsunami but did not indicate a tsunami had occurred.
This may have been promoted by the strong geomagnetic storm currently in progress
...
The last earthquake within about 250 km of today's epicenter in New Zealand
with magnitude equal or larger than M 6.7 occurred on July 15, 2009 with M 7.7.
Other such events in the past 35 years have hit the area on November 22, 2004 (M 7.0-7.1), August 21, 2003 (M 7.0)
and August 10, 1993 (M 7.0). At the time of the M 7.7 on July 15, 2009 this
summary noted:
"A very strong earthquake of M 7.6 hit off the southwest coast of New Zealand today
in the Fiordland region of South Island. It was followed later in the day
by an M 6.1 in the region of New Ireland, P.N.G. There were no reports of
damage or casualties in New Ireland where the quake hit southwest of
the town of Kavieng according to AFP. The New Zealand earthquake was felt strongly
on South Island and caused minor damage but no major damage or casualties
according to initial reports. It was followed by at least 10 moderate to
strong aftershocks of M 5.2, 5.4, 5.2 and 5.8 which were generally fel with
intensity up to IV for the larger and IV-V for the more moderate events
in general at Invercargill and Gore, New Zealand. An M 5.4 aftershock off the
coast was reported felt with intensity VI at Te Anau. A foreshock
about 100 km to the northeast occurred on July 12 with M 4.0 in the Haast
area according to GeoNet and was reported on here. GeoNet initially reported
the earthquake as an M 6.6 but revised the moment magnitude to M 7.8 later.
That agency reported the earthquake was widely felt in the South Island and
as far north as Taranaki. An aftershock about 20 minutes after the mainshock
of M 5.8-6.1 was also felt on the southern South Island according to GeoNet.
NEIC reported maximum intensity VI at Tuatapere and Te Anau, Southland, N.Z. with intensity
V at Bluff, Edendale, Greymouth, Lumsden, and Winton, Southland, N.Z. Intensity
IV was reported generally within about 200 km but as far as 600 km from the epicenter at Wyndham, Westport, Wanaka,
Stirling, Riversdale, Queenstown, Outram, Invercargill, Balclutha and Arrowtown.
Lesser intensities were felt on North Island as far as Auckland 1200 km to the
north and in Sydney, Australia nearly 2000 km to the northwest. The M 5.8-6.1
aftershock was also reported felt with intensity VI at Tuatapere and IV at Queenstown,
Otago as well as within about 500 km of the epicenter. A tsunami alert was
issued but the maximum size of the tsunami thus far reported was about 20 cm.
At Jackson Bay and Bluff the tsunami arrived about 30 minutes after the quake and measured
about 17 cm. The tsunami was also observed across the Tasman Sea in Sydney. The
Australian Bureau of Meteorology reported a tsunami was felt along the coast
in New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Lord Howe and Norfolk Island and
several waves and strong currents were detected mostly with heights of 20-30 cm.
Tsunamis in this area are generally not large and seldom are
damaging. Some power outages occurred with the quake. There were some reports
of downed power and phone lines in east Invercargill and Otatara and cracks in houses at Invercargil and Wanaka. Residents
in Queenstown ran into the streets in panic. The quake was described as
strong and rolling motion. It is quite possible that the quake added stress
to other faults along the Alpine Fault system bringing some closer to rupture.
A major break on the Alpine fault may be overdue and could come sooner rather
than later following today's earthquake. A strong earthquake hit the same region on August
22, 2003 with M 7.1. It caused significant landslides in part of South Island.
Similar earthquakes of M 7.0-7.1 hit the region on August 10, 1993 and November
22, 2004 but this is apparently the strongest earthquake in the region since
an M 8.0 in 1826, although the magnitude of that event is questionable.
This is the second largest earthquake to occur in the 500 year history of
New Zealand. The largest was an M 8.2 which hit in 1855 and killed eight
in the area of Wellington and Wairarapa. A similar M 7.8 hit in Hawke's Bay 78 years
ago and killed 256 people. The entire city of Napier was flattened. In 1929 an M 7.8
earthquake hit Buller killing 15 people." (March 25, 2025)
The earthquake of M 6.7 in southern New Zealand on March 25, 2025 kicked off
a series of major earthquakes around the world, the last such series. This
could occur again in the next week as a three month quiet in global seismicity
is rare.
The mainshock occurred with several minutes of local solar midnight and
may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near
this hour." (July 7, 2025)
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from Kamchatka and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Fytia and from Honshu
Japan and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from
those sources.
O: 02FEB2026 08:20:33 46.7S 165.7E ML=4.2 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z.
O: 02FEB2026 08:15:42 46.6S 165.6E MW=5.3 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
O: 02FEB2026 08:15:42 46.6S 165.6E ML=6.0 GeoNet OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.1 in the Andreanof Islands, Aleutians, Alaska.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Andreanof Islands, Alaska with intensity II at Atka, Alaska.
This earthquake appears to have been promoted by SFE from solar flares
3070 and 3080 of X1.0 and M5.8 class. It occurred near local solar midnight
at the end of flare 3070 and the beginning of flare 3080. This was the first
of the X-class solar flares today. Data on these flares from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3070 1225 1233 1237 X1.0 (February 1, 2026) 6.1E-02
3080 1244 1250 1256 M5.8 (February 1, 2026) 4.0E-02
Chiapas M 4.0 12:24 UT
Bangladesh M 3.2 12:30 UT
Andreanof Is. M 5.2 12:43 UT
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole;
at the tenth node (36 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic pole and at the seventh
node from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01FEB2026 12:43:08 51.8N 176.0W MB=5.1 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Kashmir, India was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Pakistan in Islamabad and Badami Bagh, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
EMSC reported strong to moderate shaking in India at Magam, Srinagar, Soyibug, Tsrar Sharif, Gulmarg, Pattan, Sumbal, Sopur, Baramula, Bandipura, and in Pakistan at Athmuqam.
This earthquake in India appears to have been promoted by the X8.1 flare (#3230)
as it occurred within minutes of the maximum output of that major solar flare - the
largest since October 3, 2024 when an X9.0 flare (#5530) occurred. Data from SWPC
on this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3230 2344 2357 0004 X8.1 (February 1, 2026) 4.0E-01
Kashmir M 4.8 00:05 UT
This epicenter is at the sixth node from TC Fytia and from Kamchatka and near the
seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole, Honshu, Japan and Mindanao
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 02FEB2026 00:05:53 34.0N 74.7E MB=4.8 EMSC SOUTHWESTERN KASHMIR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Alberta, Canada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Alberta, Canada in High Prairie, Stony Plain and Slave Lake.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Swan Hills, Alberta, Canada. This event
appears to have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 3170 which began
simultaneously with the earthquake near local solar noon. Data for this
flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3170 1743 1758 1815 M2.5 (February 1, 2026) 4.1E-02
Tajikistan M 4.6 18:04 UT
Alberta M 4.3 17:42 UT
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from TC Fytia and the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from
those two sources.
O: 01FEB2026 17:41:44 55.0N 115.9W MB=4.3 EMSC ALBERTA, CANADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Central California south of San Francisco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California south of San Francisco with III in Aptos, Marina and Watsonville and II in San Juan Bautista, Gilroy, Aromas, Turlock, Salinas, Morgan Hill, Oakland and Santa Cruz.
O: 02FEB2026 12:13:42 36.6N 121.3W MD=2.5 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.3 in Southern California east of Los Angeles was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California east of Los Angeles with III in Indio, and II in Coachella, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, San Diego, Escondido, Desert Hot Springs, White Water, San Jacinto and Chula Vista.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Vilyuchinsk.
O: 02FEB2026 05:28:25 51.8N 158.5E MB=4.5 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Ciudad Cortes.
O: 02FEB2026 01:01:21 9.5N 83.2W ML=4.4 EMSC COSTA RICA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Hindu Kush, Afghanistan in Jalalabad.
O: 01FEB2026 19:36:08 34.4N 70.6E MB=4.4 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Tarapaca, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Tarapaca, Chile at Pica.
O: 01FEB2026 18:16:19 20.9S 69.1W ML=4.1 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE FYTIA (19S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC FYTIA 2026-02-02 00:00 UT 22.1S 53.1E 65 kts East of Madagascar
Tropical cyclone Fytia continued east of Madagascar with winds up to 65 kts today. This system is expected to track to the east and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region near Madagascar and the South Indian Ocean Ridges is possible at this time. The antipode at 22N 127W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 6-8, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event near southern or Central California around that time in that area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of February 1, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3240 0031 0036 0040 X2.8 (February 2, 2026) 1.2E-01
3260 0235 0242 0244 M4.4 (February 2, 2026) 2.0E-02
3270 0245 0251 0259 M5.2 (February 2, 2026) 4.2E-02
JuJuy Argentina M 3.0 02:46 UT
Chiapas M 4.3 02:57 UT
3280 0344 0346 0349 M1.9 (February 2, 2026) 6.8E-03
3290 0439 0447 0456 M3.0 (February 2, 2026) 2.3E-02
Mindanao M 4.0 04:40 UT
3300 0510 0516 0519 M1.6 (February 2, 2026) 1.3E-02
3310 0519 0527 0535 M2.3 (February 2, 2026) 2.2E-02
Kamchatka M 4.5 05:28 UT
Papua M 3.8 05:25 UT
3320 0739 0814 0840 X1.6 (February 2, 2026) 3.8E-01
Sulawesi M 4.4 07:55 UT
So. Island, New Zeaand M 5.3 08:15 UT
3330 1017 1024 1034 M1.9 (February 2, 2026) 1.8E-02
Greece M 3.7 10:34 UT
Gulf of California M 3.6 10:43 UT
So. Texas M 2.0 10:38 UT
3340 1115 1124 1130 M6.7 (February 2, 2026) 4.0E-02
Southern Texas M 2.4 11:37 UT
3400 1332 1339 1343 M1.1 (February 2, 2026) 7.1E-03
Valparaiso M 4.4 13:40 UT
3420 1449 1501 1514 M4.0 (February 2, 2026) 3.6E-02
San Francisco M 4.4 15:01 UT M 2.5 14:49 UT Swarm after and before M 4.4
2920 0152 0205 0212 M1.7 (February 1, 2026) 1.2E-02
2930 0331 0341 0350 M1.0 (February 1, 2026) 1.0E-02
2940 0408 0420 0435 M1.9 (February 1, 2026) 2.6E-02
Bali M 4.3 04:09 UT
2970 0659 0708 0713 C5.4 (February 1, 2026) 5.1E-03
3010 0713 0723 0732 C5.4 (February 1, 2026) 6.5E-03
3040 0953 1002 1006 M6.6 (February 1, 2026) 2.4E-02
3050 1028 1042 1050 M2.4 (February 1, 2026) 3.0E-02
Tonga M 4.9 10:50 UT
3060 1152 1212 1220 M6.7 (February 1, 2026) 6.1E-02
3070 1225 1233 1237 X1.0 (February 1, 2026) 6.1E-02
Chiapas M 4.0 12:24 UT
Bangladesh M 3.2 12:30 UT
3080 1244 1250 1256 M5.8 (February 1, 2026) 4.0E-02
Andreanof Is. M 5.2 12:43 UT
3090 1418 1425 1429 M1.5 (February 1, 2026) 9.2E-03
3140 1537 1548 1557 M1.5 (February 1, 2026) 1.6E-02
Argentina M 4.3 15:43 UT
3150 1557 1605 1616 M5.1 (February 1, 2026) 4.4E-02
Southern Texas M 2.0 16:13 UT
3160 1732 1735 1740 M1.1 (February 1, 2026) 5.5E-03
3170 1743 1758 1815 M2.5 (February 1, 2026) 4.1E-02
Tajikistan M 4.6 18:04 UT
Alberta M 4.3 17:42 UT
3250 1815 1819 1822 M2.1 (February 1, 2026) 1.0E-02
Tarapaca M 4.1 18:16 UT
3180 1848 1856 1902 M1.9 (February 1, 2026) 1.5E-02
3200 1912 1922 1934 M1.8 (February 1, 2026) 2.4E-02
South Sandwich Is. M 4.9 19:22 UT
Hindu Kush M 4.4 19:36 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 19:25 UT
3210 2020 2030 2039 M2.2 (February 1, 2026) 2.2E-02
3220 2312 2327 2344 M1.3 (February 1, 2026) 2.2E-02
3230 2344 2357 0004 X8.1 (February 1, 2026) 4.0E-01
Kashmir M 4.8 00:05 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 2-4. Solar M-flare chance: 75% X-class: 25% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 4, high: 3, mid-latitude: 2, time of max AP: 15:00 UT; Max AP: 2 Global Kp 1.67 0600-0900 UT; Sunspot Number: 97; Radio Flux: 152
A series of X-class solar flares occurred on February 1 late in the UT day.
These included X1.0, X2.5 X3.5 and X8.2 flares and could have a potential
to disrupt global seismicity patterns as CME from these flares arrive in
the terrestrial environment. For the moment immediate effects from these
flares has been muted and included an M 5.2 in the western Aleutian Islands (Andreanof Islands)
at the peak of the X1.0 and an M 4.8 in Kashmir, Pakistan which was widely
felt near the end of the peak of the X8.2. A geomagnetic storm may currently
be forming (around 03:00 UT on February 2). This summary will provide more
updates as conditions change.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
February 1, 2026
UPDATE
A series of X-class solar flares occurred on February 1 late in the UT day.
These included X1.0, X2.5 and X8.2 flares and could have a potential
to disrupt global seismicity patterns as CME from these flares arrive in
the terrestrial environment. For the moment immediate effects from these
flares has been muted and included an M 5.2 in the western Aleutian Islands (Andreanof Islands)
at the peak of the X1.0 and an M 4.8 in Kashmir, Pakistan which was widely
felt near the end of the peak of the X8.2. This summary will provide more
updates as conditions change.
Notable earthquakes and events:
Solar activity began an increase today (January 31, 2026). This may lead
to more intense flares in the next several days. This, in turn could
help pull global seismicity out of its current lull and help trigger
some moderate to strong activity with the full moon today (February 1, 2026).
The full moon will arrive on February 1, 2026 at 22:09 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar midnight at this time are located at about 27 East while those at local solar noon are near 153 West. In the east these include most of Europe and Iceland while in the west areas of the eastern Aleutians, southern Alaska, Hawaii. These are the most likely areas to see significant tidal triggering with this full moon. Other areas may also see tidal promotion in the next week especially at times of large solar flares and near local solar midnight and solar noon. The likelihood of a strong associated earthquake with this full moon are considerted to be moderate to high.
A bomb cyclone is forming off the east coast of the U.S. This storm is expected to turn into a strong nor'easter
passing over Massachusetts and the U.S. northeast in the next several days.
Nor'easters of this type often see associated enhanced seismicity along the
western border of North America and the various tectonic plates to the west
including the Juan de Fuca and the Pacific plates. Some of the strongest
recent earthquakes along these borders recently have occurred as a nor'easter
was striking the east coast of the U.S. The area is therefore being placed
under seismic alert for the first week of February, 2026 by this summary.
A seismic alert suggests that conditions may be suitable for a moderate to
strong earthquake in the area in the time period in question and that residents
should update their earthquake preparedness and watch for further updates accordingly.
The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in Tonga. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Tonga at "Nuku'alofa, Tongatapu.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this Tongan epicenter with M>=5.8
occurred on March 30, 2025 with M 7.0, 6.2 and 5.8. At the time this summary
noted:
"A series of moderate aftershocks including an M 6.2 and 5.8 were felt in Tonga today following the M 7.1 there
early on March 30. Most of today's events were reported by NEIC to have been felt with light intensity in Nuku'alofa, Tongatapu, Tonga.
The mainshock has been discussed in the previous issue of this summary in part as:
"A strong earthquake of M 7.1 hit the region of Central Tonga today. NEIC initially reported it
was felt with intensity IV in Tongatapu, Tonga at Tofoa-Koloua and in Alofi, and Makefu, Niue and III in Mu'a, Nuku'alofa and Neiafu, Tonga.
A foreshock of M 4.4 occurred early on March 29 near the mainshock epicenter (see earthquake list below). This event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and was probably
promoted by a combination of strong tidal stresses with the solar eclipse of
March 29; the M 7.7 in Myanmar of March 28 and the recent strong geomagnetic
storm which effects are strongest at local solar noon and midnight. This earthquake
may have generated a regional moderate tsunami, but a Pacific-wide tsunami is
unlikely. Nevertheless residents in the Tonga/Fiji/New Zealand area ought to
seek higher ground and not approach the ocean in the next couple of hours.
Initial observations by JTWC and PTWC do not indicate a hazardous tsunami but warns for dangeroud sea level fluctuations and strong currents are still in effect.
The last earthquake in Tonga within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=7.1
occurred as a great M 8.0 on May 3, 2006, the only such event in the past 35 years.
Earthquake about 300 km from today's epicenter since 1990 also occurred on
November 11, 2022 (M 7.3) and October 14, 1997 (M 7.8). The earthquake of
November 11, 2022 followed a similar eclipse in October, 2022 and had been
in this summary as a possible area for a major earthquake at this time (see below)." (March 29-31, 2025)
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 31JAN2026 20:59:33 21.0S 174.3W MW=5.8 EMSC TONGA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Iran was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Iran with V in Kongan, Bushehr and in Doham Qatar with II.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Iran with M>=5.2
was reported as an M 5.2 on January 6, 2025. The last of larger magnitude was an M 5.8 on June 9, 2020,
At the time this summary reported:
"The strongest earthquake felt in the world today was an M 5.7 in southern Iran. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity VI in Fars, Iran at Gerash; IV in Kongan Bushehr and III in Shiraz as well as in Doha, Qatar.
A foreshock of M 5.4 was felt with maximum intensity V in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates as well as in Bahrain, Qatar and Kongan, Iran.
Today's events were probably promoted by tidal stresses associated with the full moon of
June 5. The mainshock of M 5.7 occurred within about an hour of local solar midnight
near the longitude of maximum tidal stress as reported in previous issues of this summary:
...
Today's activity did not do any reported major damage in the region but some
minor damage is likely. The last earthquake within about 200 km of this activity
with M>=5.7 occurrred nearly 10 years ago as an M 5.8 on July 20, 2010. An M 6.4
about 300 km northwest of this shook the area on April 9, 2013, the last such
regional event at this magnitude or above." (June 9, 2020)
Today's event in Iran also occurred within about an hour of local solar noon.
There is no current evidence that this earthquake is related to current
hostilities in this region.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from TC Fytia; the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Taiwan and the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu and Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 01FEB2026 05:11:20 27.4N 52.7E MW=5.2 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
An earthquake of M 5.2 hit in the Prince Edward Islands area of the south Indian
Ocean today. This is a remote area and this event was not reported felt.
It is nearly antipodal the area off western Vancouver Island, Canada where
seismic enhancement is possible at this time.
The last earthquake with M>=5.2 in the Prince Edward Islands region within about
200 km of today's epicenter occurred as an M 6.0 on June 18, 2023 and a similat
M 6.0 on December 18, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.0 occurred South of Africa today. It was not reported
felt in this remote area. This earthquake occurred at a high latitude within
minutes of local solar midnight and was probably promoted by strong tidal
and geomagnetic stress which maximized near this hour. It is located near
the antipode of the Alaska Peninsula where an M 5.0 also occurred today
and may have been promoted by energy from that event as well. While earthquakes of
M 6.0-6.1 hit within about 250 km of this epicenter on December 18, 2021, September 26, 2020 and November 17, 2014,
the only event of significantly larger magnitude in this region in the past 35
years was an M 6.2-6.3 on May 9, 2003." (June 18, 2023)
This epicenter is at the 12th node (30 degrees) Tropical Cyclone Fytia (currently located east of Madagascar) and
at 106 degrees from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 31JAN2026 19:06:50 47.1S 33.4E MB=5.2 EMSC PRINCE EDWARD ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 3.2 in northern Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Montana iwith III in Great Falls, and II in Vaughn, Belt, Black Eagle, Helena, Cascade, Malmstrom, AFB and Pendroy.
O: 01FEB2026 01:22:46 47.5N 111.2W ML=3.2 EMSC WESTERN MONTANA
An earthquake of M 5.3, probably related to regional volcanism, occurred in the region of Central Iceland today. NEIC reported no felt details for this event.
This is the strongest earthquake in Central Iceland within about 200 km of this
epicenter since an M 5.4 on October 29, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
The earthquake in Iceland is in a volcanic area of central Iceland. At M 5.4
it is the largest event in this region of Iceland since an M 5.4 on December 15, 2014
but the last and only such event in the past 25 years in this area of significantly
larger magnitude occurred at the beginning of this series on August 26, 2014 with M 5.7.
At the time this summary noted:
"The earthquake of M 5.7 in Iceland is the strongest recorded in that area
since an M 5.8 on September 16, 2002, the only other event of this size in
Iceland in the past 25 years. It is part of the sub-glacial Bardarbunga volcanic eruption
in the central portion of that island." (August 26, 2014)
Oddly enough, this earthquake in Iceland in 2014 occurred while Hurricane Cristobal
was near the same position where Hurricane Melissa now stands. At the time
this summary noted this as:
"Hurricane Cristobal continued today east of Florida with winds up to 75 kts where it
encountered the continental shelf. As this storm hit the continental shelf at about the same time that the
M 6.1 quake hit in the western U.S. in the San Francisco area, it is not
unlikely that the motions imparted to the North American plate by this
Cristobal were in part responsible for the timing of that California earthquake." (August 26, 2014, October 29, 2025)
The bomb cyclone that hit the eastern U.S. today also made landfall in Florida
and South Carolina and may have helped promote today's M 5.2 in Iceland.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao and may have also been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 31JAN2026 11:54:53 64.7N 17.4W MW=5.3 EMSC ICELAND
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Central Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Alaska with II in Fairbanks.
O: 31JAN2026 23:15:09 64.0N 147.2W ML=3.5 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Oklahoma was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oklahoma in El Reno.
An M 2.8 near Blanchard, Oklahoma earlier in the day was reported by NEIC to have been felt with IV in Blanchard, III in Amber and II in Norman, Oklahoma.
O: 31JAN2026 21:43:58 35.6N 98.0W ML=2.5 EMSC OKLAHOMA
O: 31JAN2026 19:08:35 35.1N 97.6W ML=2.9 EMSC OKLAHOMA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Western Texas was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Texas with IV in Stanton and II in Midland.
O: 31JAN2026 19:23:28 31.6N 104.4W ML=2.5 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 31JAN2026 14:18:11 32.1N 101.9W ML=2.0 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 31JAN2026 21:40:16 32.2N 102.2W ML=2.8 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California with III in Anchorage and II in Chugiak, Wasilla and Eagle River.
O: 31JAN2026 14:12:58 61.5N 150.0W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 off the coast of Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California at Fortuna.
O: 31JAN2026 11:06:36 40.3N 124.7W ML=3.0 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Oaxaca, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oaxaca, Mexico with III in Xoxocotlan, Xadani, Huatulco, and II in Pochutla, Tlalnepantla and Amatlan.
O: 31JAN2026 09:58:32 16.1N 95.6W MB=4.5 EMSC OAXACA, MEXICO
O: 31JAN2026 12:54:34 15.7N 95.7W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
O: 31JAN2026 09:53:47 15.8N 95.7W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE FYTIA (19S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC FYTIA 2026-02-01 00:00 UT 18.0S 48.8E 80 kts East of Madagascar
Tropical cyclone Fytia continued east of Madagascar with winds up to 80 kts today. This system is expected to track to the east and south. Some seismic enhancement in the region near Madagascar and the South Indian Ocean Ridges is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 132W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 6-8, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event near southern California around that time in that area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 31, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2690 0128 0137 0141 C1.5 (January 31, 2026) 1.4E-03
Western Texas M 2.5 01:28 UT
Western Turkey M 1.1-1.6 01:28 UT
2700 0244 0259 0306 C3.1 (January 31, 2026) 3.2E-03
Greenland Sea M 3.7 03:06 UT
2710 0310 0315 0322 C2.5 (January 31, 2026) 1.9E-03
Oaxaca M 4.0 03:12 UT
2720 0425 0440 0449 C4.9 (January 31, 2026) 5.7E-03
2730 0449 0512 0526 C6.0 (January 31, 2026) 1.1E-02
2750 0831 0846 0851 C3.6 (January 31, 2026) 3.5E-03
Antigua and Barbuda M 3.7 08:46 UT
2760 1035 1052 1101 C6.2 (January 31, 2026) 5.9E-03
Bonin Is. M 4.8 10:36 UT
2770 1255 1300 1302 C6.1 (January 31, 2026) 2.4E-03
Oaxaca M 4.0 12:55 UT
2780 1347 1353 1400 C3.1 (January 31, 2026) 2.1E-03
2790 1444 1452 1454 C4.5 (January 31, 2026) 3.3E-03
Guerrero M 4.3 14:45 UT
2810 1454 1509 1518 C4.9 (January 31, 2026) 6.8E-03
2800 1556 1600 1604 C3.5 (January 31, 2026) 1.7E-03
Kamchatka M 4.0 15:54 UT
Fiji M 4.4 15:49 UT
2830 1623 1627 1636 C2.8 (January 31, 2026) 2.2E-03
2880 1722 1734 1737 C2.9 (January 31, 2026) 2.9E-03
2840 1737 1742 1747 C3.1 (January 31, 2026) 2.1E-03
2850 1821 1833 1841 C7.0 (January 31, 2026) 6.3E-03
Moro Gulf M 4.8 18:34 UT
2860 1908 1920 1928 C7.8 (January 31, 2026) 6.5E-03
Java M 4.0 19:14 UT
Prince Edward Islands M 5.2 19:07 UT
2890 2020 2030 2038 C5.7 (January 31, 2026) 5.7E-03
Chiapas M 4.0 20:40 UT
Kuril M 4.9 20:54 UT
Tonga M 5.8 20:59 UT
2900 2209 2218 2224 C3.0 (January 31, 2026) 2.6E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet February 1-3. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 45% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 5, high: 3, mid-latitude: 3, time of max AP: 05:00 UT; Max AP: 2 Global Kp 2.00 0000-0600 UT; Sunspot Number: 126; Radio Flux: 141
A series of X-class solar flares occurred on February 1 late in the UT day.
These included X1.0, X2.5 and X8.2 flares and could have a potential
to disrupt global seismicity patterns as CME from these flares arrive in
the terrestrial environment. For the moment immediate effects from these
flares has been muted and included an M 5.2 in the western Aleutian Islands (Andreanof Islands)
at the peak of the X1.0 and an M 4.8 in Kashmir, Pakistan which was widely
felt near the end of the peak of the X8.2. A geomagnetic storm may currently
be forming (around 03:00 UT on February 2). This summary will provide more
updates as conditions change.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 31, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The full moon will arrive on February 1, 2026 at 22:09 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar midnight at this time are located at about 27 East while those at local solar noon are near 153 West. In the east these include most of Europe and Iceland while in the west areas of the eastern Aleutians, southern Alaska, Hawaii. These are the most likely areas to see significant tidal triggering with this full moon. Other areas may also see tidal promotion in the next week especially at times of large solar flares and near local solar midnight and solar noon. The likelihood of a strong associated earthquake with this full moon are considerted to be moderate to high.
A bomb cyclone is forming off the east coast of the U.S. This storm is expected to turn into a strong nor'easter
passing over Massachusetts and the U.S. northeast in the next several days.
Nor'easters of this type often see associated enhanced seismicity along the
western border of North America and the various tectonic plates to the west
including the Juan de Fuca and the Pacific plates. Some of the strongest
recent earthquakes along these borders recently have occurred as a nor'easter
was striking the east coast of the U.S. The area is therefore being placed
under seismic alert for the first week of February, 2026 by this summary.
A seismic alert suggests that conditions may be suitable for a moderate to
strong earthquake in the area in the time period in question and that residents
should update their earthquake preparedness and watch for further updates accordingly.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Anchorage and Eagle River and II in Girdwood and Chugiak and Wasilla.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 30JAN2026 22:06:09 61.2N 149.4W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with II in Willow, and II in Girdwood, Anchorage, Wasilla, Chugiak, Healy, Talkeetna, Cantwell, Eagle River.
The last earthquake of M>=4.3 within about 150 km of this epicenter occurred
on January 7, 2026 with M 4.5. At the time this summary noted:
"The second strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 in the Denali National Park, Alaska.
This event occurred minutes before the M 6.4 in Mindanao, Philippines.
NEIC reported it was widely felt in Alaska with III in Anchorage and Willow and II in
Talkeetna, and Chugiak. It was probably promoted by tidal stresses with the
full moon of January 3 as it lies at the longitude of maximum stress with
that alignment (see above). The last earthquake in the Denali region of Alaska
within about 200 km of today's epicenter occurred on November 27, 2025 with M 6.0.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.0 shook the areas near Anchorage, and Elmendorf AFB, Alaska today.
More than 7000 responses from citizens in the area to NEIC revealed it was felt
with intensity V in Alaska at Anchorage, Talkeetna, Willow, Palmer, IV in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Chugia, Clam Gulch, Skwentana, Eagle River, Wasilla, Girdwood, Kenai, Elmendorf AFB, Fort Richarson, Indian, Cooper Landing, Kasilof, with intensity III as far as about 400 km from the epicenter.
No tsunami was expected nor observed with this earthquake. This earthquake
occurred at the peak of a high latitude geomagnetic storm with k-index of 7
and was probably promoted by that storm (see above). It is also near 100 degrees
from the earlier M 6.6 in Sumatra and the accompanying eye of Tropical Cyclone
Senyar today and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from northern Honshu, Japan today may have been promoted by energy
from those sources. This area has seen
a series of minor foreshocks in the past several days, but the last earthquake
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6 occurred on November 30, 2018 with M 7.0." (November 27, 2025, January 7, 2026)
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees from Hokkaido and Honshu
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 30JAN2026 21:27:23 63.1N 149.6W ML=4.3 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.4, M 3.1 and M 2.9 in Eastern San Francisco Bay, California was felt with intensity up to IV in San Ramon, Moraga, San Leandro, Hayward, Castro Valley and III in San Francisco, Ben Lomond, San Mateo, Danville, Dublin, Fremont, Emeryville, Walnut Creek, Pleasanton, Burlingame, Alameda, Daly City, San Bruno, Oakland, Alamo and II within about 50 km of the epicenter of the mainshock. The smaller afters were reported with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Eastern San Francisco Bay, California with III in Pleasanton, San Ramon, Castro Valley, Walnut Creek, Hayward, and II in San Francisco, Dublin, and Oakland.
EMSC reported the mainshock was felt as a strong jolt in Dublin, San Ramon with moderate
shaking in Central California at Blackhawk, Fairview, Diablo, Castro Valley, Pleasanton, Alamo, Hayward, and San Leandro.
These events resume a series of earthquakes which had seemingly quieted down in the
past two weeks and may indicate a return of the elevated stresses in this area.
They occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic stresses which often maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao; the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Honshu, Japan; and the seventh node (52 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 30JAN2026 18:33:09 37.8N 121.9W MW=3.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 30JAN2026 18:33:51 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.9 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 31JAN2026 01:06:49 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in New Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Mexico in Maxwell and Jemez Springs and II in Trinidad, Colorado.
The mainshock was followed by several light aftershocks, unusual for earthquakes
in this area. A full discussion of the history of seismicity in this region
was presented in the previous issue of this summary. Readers are referred
to that issue for more details.
O: 30JAN2026 07:20:30 36.8N 104.9W MW=3.9 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 30JAN2026 11:06:45 36.9N 104.8W ML=2.6 EMSC NEW MEXICO
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE FYTIA (19S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC FYTIA 2026-01-31 00:00 UT 16.0S 44.8E 125 kts West of Madagascar
Tropical cyclone Fytia continued west of Madagascar with winds up to 125 kts today. This system is expected to turn to the east today passing over central Madagascar over the next two days and dissipating somewhat before entering the area of the Indian Ocean where it is expected to re-energize. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Madagascar is possible at this time. The antipode at 16N 136W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 5-7, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event near southern California around that time in that area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 30, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2540 0351 0400 0407 C1.4 (January 30, 2026) 1.4E-03
2550 0508 0520 0523 C1.4 (January 30, 2026) 1.8E-03
2560 0523 0536 0540 C1.5 (January 30, 2026) 1.7E-03
2580 0707 0711 0713 C1.6 (January 30, 2026) 6.0E-04
2600 0843 0853 0902 C1.7 (January 30, 2026) 1.8E-03
2610 1026 1035 1046 C1.9 (January 30, 2026) 2.1E-03
2620 1319 1326 1339 C1.6 (January 30, 2026) 1.8E-03
2640 1945 1951 1956 C1.2 (January 30, 2026) 8.1E-04
2650 2052 2059 2103 C1.1 (January 30, 2026) 7.5E-04
2660 2336 2344 2349 C1.3 (January 30, 2026) 1.1E-03
Mindanao M 3.7 23:54 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 31 quiet February 1-2. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 8, mid-latitude: 9, time of max AP: 01:00 UT; Max AP: 4 Global AP 3.67 0000-0300 UT; Sunspot Number: 112; Radio Flux: 128
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 30, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The full moon will arrive on February 1, 2026 at 22:09 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar midnight at this time are located at about 27 East while those at local solar noon are near 153 West. In the east these include most of Europe and Iceland while in the west areas of the eastern Aleutians, southern Alaska, Hawaii. These are the most likely areas to see significant tidal triggering with this full moon. Other areas may also see tidal promotion in the next week especially at times of large solar flares and near local solar midnight and solar noon. The likelihood of a strong associated earthquake with this full moon are considerted to be moderate to high.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.0 in the South Sandwich Islands. The earthquake
in the South Sandwich Islands was preceded earlier in the day near local solar
noon by an M 5.0. Neither of these events was reported felt in this remote
epicentral area. The last earthquake of M>=6 in the South Sandwich Islands
was an M 6.0 on March 14, 2025 and an M 6.1 on January 1, 2025. At the time
this summary noted:
"NEIC reported the M 6.0 in the South Sandwich Islands may have been felt with intensity up to V in the epicentral area of the South Sandwich Islands although there were no reports of felt intensity for this event.
The last earthquake in the South Sandwich Islands within about 200 km of this epicenter
with M>=6.0 occurred on January 1, 2025 with the last major geomagnetic storm.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquakes in the world today occurred in the southern oceans.
These included an M 6.1 in the South Sandwich Islands and an M 5.5 in the
Balleny Islands south of New Zealand and an M 5.2 in the Tristan da Cunha area of the
South Atlantic. None of these were reported felt
in their remote epicentral areas. The event in the South Sandwich Islands occurred
within a few minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted by strong
tidal stresses associated with the super new moon of December 30
...
The last earthquake of M>=6.1 in the South Sandwich Islands occurred as an M 6.3 on October 25, 2022. A great M 8.1 hit the
region on August 12, 2021." (January 1, 2025, March 14, 2025)
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 28JAN2026 11:31:36 56.0S 27.7W MB=5.0 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
O: 29JAN2026 07:30:38 57.8S 25.5W MW=6.0 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in New Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Mexico in Maxwell and Jemez Springs and II in Trinidad, Colorado.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole and at 104 degrees
from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
Like an M 4.2 in Montana today this epicenter was near local solar noon
at the time of the sudden commencement of the recent major geomagnetic
storm and was probably promoted by that event. Today's earthquake in New
Mexico occurred near local solar midnight, a time when geomagnetic
effects often maximize.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of today's New Mexico epicenter
with M>=3.9 occurred on August 26, 2023 with M 4.0. The last of significantly larger
magnitude in the area was an M 5.3 on August 23, 2011. At the time this
summary noted:
"The strongest of these today occurred in the region of Southern Colorado after a smaller event occurred
earlier. The largest of the Colorado events was an M 5.3-5.4. This appears
to be the strongest earthquake in Colorado since an M 6.2 on November 8, 1882,
although an event of M 5.4 was also recorded in central Colorado on October 11,
1960. Other earthquakes in this distance zone today included events in
India and Kashmir, Tajikistan, Guatemala, and Chile among others. We had
anticipated this pattern in our summary yesterday as follows:
"Readers are advised to visit the daily earthquake map to see where further
activity may be likely. For example, the 103 degree line, the edge of the shadow
zone and the seventh node was active today from Chiapas, Mexico to central
Peru, Chile and the South Sandwich Islands. The line passed through Pakistan and Afghanistan
where activity occurred yesterday but where a further earthquake is possible
at this time ... The P103 theory suggests that triggering will occur at 103 degrees from
major earthquakes because seismic energy reflected and refracted off the
core-mantle boundary concentrates at this distance on the surface. Followers
of this theory may be interested that the earthquake of M 5.6 in the South
Sandwich Islands was at 103 degrees from Vanuatu as were a series of
events in Chiapas, Mexico including an M 4.5. Earthquakes in northern Peru (M 4.4),
and Atacama, Chile (M 4.7) were at 106 degrees from Vanuatu." (August 22, 2011)
Earthquakes of M 5.2-5.4 and M 4.6-5.0 hit southern Colorado near the New Mexico border today.
These events were felt throughout most of Colorado and in much of northern
New Mexico and as far as Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming. The larger event has only two
predecessor earthquakes in Colorado of stronger magnitude in historic times.
One of these was an artificially induced earthquake caused by water injection
which occurred with M 5.4 in the Denver area on October 10, 1960. An earthquake
in 1973 may have occurred in northwestern Colorado with M 5.7 but this is
not listed in the "Seismicity of the United States 1568-1989" and may have
had its epicenter in Wyoming as well where it is given an M 4.8 magnitude. While
a geophysicist with the USGS is reported as stating there was an M 5.7
in Colorado in 1973 this is clearly an error. There is no such event listed
in the definitive catalog of historical Colordao earthquake - "Colorado Earthquake
Data and Interpretations 1967 to 1985" by Kirkham and Rogers.
The only natural event of larger magnitude in Colorado history occurred near Denver on November
8, 1882 and while this event was felt strongly in northern Colorado, it is
possible the epicenter was actually in southern Wyoming.
Initial reports indicated that a few homes were damaged and rockslides hit
highways in the epicenral region.
...
Most of the lighter events in the series today also were felt lightly
in the epicentral zone.
When the light precursor hit the region earlier this morning we discussed
this series of events leading up to today's moderately strong earthquake
in this summary as follows:
"An earthquake of M 2.9 was lightly felt in southern Colorado near the
New Mexican border today. This series of unexplained earthquakes began
exactly 10 years ago in late August (28), 2001 and has continued off and on
since that time. The strongest earthquakes in the sequence typically
occur in August and September with an M 5.0 on August 10, 2005, the largest
to date and an M 4.5 on September 5, 2001 the second to date. The last
event of M>=2.5 in the area was an M 3.8 on May 11, 2011 and an M 3.2
on March 12, 2011 shortly after the great Japanese earthquake. Since today's
event followed a strong aftershock of the Japanese event by about the same
time as the earthquakes in March, some triggering may be considered in
these cases." (August 22, 2011, August 23, 2011)
Readers should also note that the event in Colorado on August 23, 2011
was followed later in the day by an M 5.8 in Virginia and Washington D.C.
as reported in this summary:
A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.8 hit Virginia and Washington D.C.
today and was felt from New Brunswick, Canada to Florida and as far inland as the central
United States. This is the second moderately strong and highly unusual
earthquake to hit the North American plate in less than 12 hours, the
first being an earthquake in Colorado of M 5.4 earlier in the day. We
discussed the Colorado quake in our previous summary. Aftershocks in Colorado
continued throughout the day today. In a curious historical coincidence,
the last major earthquakes in Colorado occurred in September, 2001 several
days before the destructive attacks on 9-11, 2001 in New York and Washington D.C.
The strongest aftershock of the M 5.8 in Virginia was an M 4.2 with
other light aftershocks recorded of M 3.4 and 2.8 in the first few hours.
This is the strongest earthquake ever recorded in this region of the
United States. The only other events of M>5 in the area occurred with M 5.0
on August 27, 1833 (an event also associated with a hurricane to the southwest)
and an M 5.0 on December 23, 1875. Both of these occurred within 40 km
of today's epicenter, the only epicenter in the region which has shown
significant seismicity over the past three centuries. In the broader area
including Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Delaware,
North Carolina the only event of similar or larger size ever recorded was
the Giles, Virginia earthquake of May 31, 1897 of M 5.8." (August 23, 2011)
Later it was revealed that one of the strongest stellar explosions in recent history
was recorded on the same day.
O: 30JAN2026 07:20:30 36.8N 104.9W MW=3.9 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported earthquakes of M>=5 continued in the Moro Gulf area of Mindanao, Philippines and were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao in Buayan.
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 29JAN2026 23:05:18 6.6N 123.8E MB=4.9 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 29JAN2026 22:31:12 6.5N 123.8E mb=4.6 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 30JAN2026 00:49:16 6.5N 123.9E mb=5.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported earthquake of M 3.7 in Southeastern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Alaska in Juneau.
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Taiwan and the sevent node from
Honshu and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 29JAN2026 10:52:30 60.0N 141.4W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
O: 29JAN2026 22:59:08 60.2N 139.9W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 29JAN2026 18:37:56 60.4N 139.4W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 29JAN2026 18:36:52 61.3N 141.0W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
O: 29JAN2026 10:28:34 60.0N 141.4W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Oaxaca, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oaxaca, Mexico in Xadani.
EMSC reported light shaking in Crucecita, Oaxaca, Mexico.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Honshu, Japan and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 29JAN2026 22:06:29 15.5N 96.1W MB=4.6 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Montana with V in Sand Coulee; IV in Great Falls, Sun River, Black Eagle, Great Falls, Malmstrom AFB, Fort Shaw, Augusta, Fairfield, Vaughn, Raynesford, Belt and III in Floweree, Hilger, Power, Fort Benton, Dutton, Cascade, Stockett, Geraldine, Choteau, Ovando, Sunburst and in general within about 150 km of the epicenter.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Montana at Malmstrom AFB, Black Eagle, Great Falls, Fairfield, Shelby, Helena, Cut Bank, Ronan, Woods Bay, Bigfork, Orchard Homes, Kalispell, Whitefish and Marion.
EMSC reported an aftershock of M 2.5 in Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Montana at Great Falls.
This epicenter is at 105 degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
Like a number of other earthquakes in the western U.S. this week, this
occurred at a longitude which was sub-solar when the major geomagnetic
storm occurred early this week. It appears much of this seismicity is
related to the sudden commencement of that storm.
There have been no events within about 100 km of today's epicenter with M>4.2
in at least 35 years. The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in western Montana
with M>=4.2 occurred as an M 4.2 on October 19, 2017, an aftershock of an M 5.8
minutes earlier on July 6, 2017. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.8 in western Montana today may have
helped trigger an M 6.2 earthquake in Leyte, Central Philippines about an hour
and-a-half later. The two epicenters area separated by 103 degrees on the earth's
surface. Seismic energy from large events reflects and refracts off core-mantle
boundaries and is redirected to the surface where it concentrates around
103 degrees from the mainshock epicenter. A surge in seismicity in this
distance zone often follows and is thought to be triggered by this energy.
The earthquake in Montana was a near-midnight event and may also have been
triggered by earth tides which are maximized at this hour. The area often
is active in summer months as water becomes more accessible but it has been
some time since a large earthquake hit the area. It is possible that the Yellowstone
Wyoming/Montana swarm of the past month helped set the area up for this large
earthquake which is about 250 km north of that swarm.
The mainshock of M 5.8 was felt throughout the northwestern U.S. and southwestern Canada.
States reporting light to moderate shaking included, Montana, Idaho, Washington, Utah, Wyoming,
Oregon and in Canada, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Light shaking was reported from
up to 800 km from the epicenter at Portland and Beaverton, Bend, The Dalles, Oregon and in Washington at Walla Walla, Prescott, Valley, Metaline Falls, Chewelah, Sprague, Ione, Reardan, Ford, Cusick, Koon Lake, Endicott, Clayton, Medical Lake, Nine Mile Falls, Usk, Fairchile AFB, Deer Park, Cheney, Airway Heights, Spokane, Saint John, Newport, Colbert, Elk, Chattaroy, Clarkston, Colfax, Mead, Valleyford, Veradale, Otis Orchards, Newman Lakes, Fairfield, Pullman, Rockford, Uniontown, Twisp, Wenatchee, Quincy, Omak, Okanogan, Richland, Moses Lake, Keller, Incheliun, Kettle Falls, Prescott, Addy, Colville, Seattle, Lynnwood, Marysville, Auburn, Everett, Bellevue, Shelton, Port Townsend, Brush Prairie, and Yelm.
In Montana the mainshock was felt with intensity VI in Canyon Creek and Lincoln, Montana with possible
light to moderate damage in the epicentral area about 25-30 km from these communities. Intensity IV-V in Montana
included reports from Garrison, Helena, Augusta, Deer Lodge, Ovando, Clancy, East Helena, Bonner, Drummond, Cascade, Boulder, Winston, Anaconda, Seeley Lake, Clinton, Fairfield, Philipsburg, Fort Shaw, Sun River, Missoula, Butte, Townsend, Condon, Vaughn, Choteau, Great Falls, Stockett, Arlee, Stevensville, Power, Divide, Saint Ignatius, Great Falls, Corvallis, Florence, Black Eagle, San Coulee, Frenchtown, White Sulphur Springs, Malmstrom AFB, Dutton, Three Fors, Ronan, Lolo, Victor, Belt, Dixton, Hamilton, Floweree, Bigfork, Wisdom, Huson, Raynesford, Belgrade, Manhattan, Polson, Valier, Highwood, Big Arm, Sheridan, Conner, Dayton, Rollins, Darby, Lakeside, Plains, Kila, Gallatin Gateway, Virginia City, Chester, and within about 200 km of the epicenter. Intensity II-III in Montana was reported from areas up to 350 km from the epicenter including at Billings, Winnett, Joliet, Troy, Roundup, Park City, Creston, Cranbrook,
In Utah it was felt with intensity II-IV in Salt Lake City, and in Idaho at Twin Falls, Preston, Kuna, Meridian, Boise, Gooding, Eagle, Garden City, Fairfield, Garden Valley, Hailey, Arco, Ketchum, Bonners Ferry, Donnelly, Priest River, Oldtown, Blanchard, Rexburg, Spirit Lake, Rathdrum, Post Falls, Sandpoint, Lewiston, Moore, Worley, Sagle, Moscow, Genesee, Potlatch, Coeur D;Alene, Athol, Tensed, Harrison, McCall, Hayden, Saint Anthony, Clark Fork, Saint Maries, Challis, Kendrick, Deary, Kingston, Grangeville, Pinehurst, Nezperce, Island Park, Smelterville, Kellogg, Kamiah, Weippe, Leadore, Mullan, Kooskia, Pierce, Wallace, Orofino, Elk City, Salmon, Carmen, and within about 400 km of the epicenter.
It was also reported felt in Wyoming in Yellowstone National Park, Dubois, among others.
Canada felt the earthquake with intensity II-III with reports from British Columbia at White Rock, Kamloops, Kelowna, Lumby, Golden, Cranbrook, Penticton, Grand Forks, Chilliwack, Castlegar, Trail, Nelson, and Walnut Grove up to 800 km from the epicenter. It was also felt in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; in Alberta at Beaumont, Drumheller, Calgary, Chestermere, Brooks, Medicine Hat, Claresholn, Bow Island, Fort MacLeod, Coalhurst, Coaldale, Lethbridge, Magrath, Cardston.
NEIC reported a number of moderate aftershocks of M 3.9-5.0 in the first several
hours after the mainshock in Montana. These were reported felt with intensity II-III
within about 150 km of the epicenters, in Montana at Helena, Great Falls, Missoula, Manilton, Kalispell, Polson, Whitefish, and in Idaho at Wallace, Coeur D'Alene, Post Falls and Boise among others.
A foreshock of M 2.3 also occurred at the epicenter of the mainshock about a
day earlier. There were no obvious triggers to the foreshock that would have immediately
put the area on alert for a larger event.
The last earthquake with M>=5.8 in western Montana within about 250 km of
today's event occurred on October 28, 1983 with M 7.3 near Challis, Idaho;
in Yellowstone as M 6.1 on June 30, 1975 and as the Hebgen Lake earthquake
of August 18, 1959 of M 7.7. A series of earthquake within about 50 km of today's
epicenters hit the area in October, 1935 with maximum magnitude M 6.3 on October 19, 1935 and October 31, 1935. These followed an M 5.9 foreshock on
October 12, 1935. Given this regional history it appears likely that strong
or moderately strong aftershocks of today's event are likely in the next two weeks.
This summary had noted the damage from these earthquakes 82 years ago as:
"The main earthquake in a series of earthquakes in Montana in 1935. Two were killed
by falling bricks. Damage estimated at $3 million. 300 buildings were damaged
and up to 200 chimneys were destroyed. Severe damage at Helena at the High School,
City Hall, Kessler Brewery and St. Joseph's Orphanage. Tombstones twisted
and overturned. Ground cracks were common especially in allugial material where water flowed from
the cracks. Changes in water flow in wells and springs occurred." (October 19, 2016)
The only other event of M>=5.8 within about 100 km of today's event that has been
recorded occurred on June 28, 1925 with M 6.8 about 100 km southeast of today's epicenter.
The historical account in this summary of this event read:
"This earthquake occurred east of Helena, Montana with violent shaking over 600
square miles over a felt area of about 300,000 square miles with intensity
VIII. The greatest damage occurred at Manhattan where a large schoolhouse
was destroyed. Some reinforeced concrete buildings survived. Many chimneys
fell in all directions. Rockfalls and landslides destroyed sections of railroad
track. At Three Forks similar damage was observed. A church with high unsecured
walls was strongly damaged. Cracks appears in Masonry building however frame
buildings were relatively undamaged. Cracks formed in the roads. Felt throughout
Montana, North Dakota, Washington and Wyoming." (June 28, 2017)
Water is important in promotion of seismicity in this region and the concentration
of many of the important regional historical events towards the end of June or in
early July is probably not coincidental but may be related to regional weather patterns. While regional earthquake activity is expected to be promoted, it is also likely
that changes in groundwater and wells will be noted in the next several days
as occurred in 1935." (July 6, 2017)
O: 29JAN2026 19:41:10 47.6N 111.2W MW=4.2 EMSC WESTERN MONTANA
O: 30JAN2026 00:46:44 47.6N 111.2W ML=2.7 EMSC WESTERN MONTANA
Tropical cyclone Fytia formed west of Madagascar with winds up to 100 kts today. The antipode at 15N 138W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 5-7, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event in southern California around that time in that area.
A bomb cyclone is forming off the east coast of the U.S. This storm is expected to turn into a strong nor'easter
passing over Massachusetts and the U.S. northeast in the next several days.
Nor'easters of this type often see associated enhanced seismicity along the
western border of North America and the various tectonic plates to the west
including the Juan de Fuca and the Pacific plates. Some of the strongest
recent earthquakes along these borders recently have occurred as a nor'easter
was striking the east coast of the U.S. The area is therefore being placed
under seismic alert for the first week of February, 2026 by this summary.
A seismic alert suggests that conditions may be suitable for a moderate to
strong earthquake in the area in the time period in question and that residents
should update their earthquake preparedness and watch for further updates accordingly.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE FYTIA (19S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC FYTIA 2026-01-30 00:00 UT 15.5S 43.0E 100 kts West of Madagascar
Tropical cyclone Fytia formed west of Madagascar with winds up to 100 kts today. This system is expected to turn to the east today passing over central Madagascar over the next two days and dissipating somewhat before entering the area of the Indian Ocean where it is expected to re-energize. Some seismic enhancement in the region of Madagascar is possible at this time. The antipode at 15N 138W is in the north Pacific west of Mexico and is not expected to see seismicity at this time. There is a potential, however that this storm will reach a position antipodal to Baja and Southern California around February 5-7, 2026. This could lead to a moderate regional event around that time in that area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 29, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2470 1405 1431 1449 C1.2 (January 29, 2026) 2.9E-03
Guerrero M 4.1 14:04 UT
Hokkaido M 4.5 14:13 UT
Sumatra M 4.4 14:43 UT
2490 2131 2140 2158 C1.1 (January 29, 2026) 1.8E-03
Hawaii M 2.1 21:31 UT
Gulf of California M 3.5 21:32 UT
New Britain M 4.4 21:42 UT
Banda Sea M 4.6 21:52 UT
Oaxaca M 4.6 22:06 UT
2510 2237 2245 2251 C1.5 (January 29, 2026) 1.1E-03
Hawaii M 3.3 22:58 UT
Yukon, Canada M 3.9 22:59 UT
Mindanao M 4.9 23:05 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 30 unsettled January 31 quiet February 1. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 22, high: 33, mid-latitude: 14, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6 Global AP 4.0 1800-2200 UT; Sunspot Number: 117; Radio Flux: 129
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 29, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate geomagnetic storm of G1 occurred with AP reaching 5.33 late on January 28
and early on January 29, 2026. This storm may have triggered the strongest
earthquake of the day - an M 6.0 in the South Sandwich Islands. The earthquake
in the South Sandwich Islands was preceded earlier in the day near local sola
noon by an M 5.0. Neither of these events was reported felt in this remote
epicentral area.
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 28JAN2026 11:31:36 56.0S 27.7W MB=5.0 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
O: 29JAN2026 07:30:38 57.8S 25.5W MW=6.0 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.6 and M 4.6 south of Tokyo, Japan were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of south of Tokyo, Japan with III in Yokosuka and Atsugi, Kanagawa.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51.4 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 29JAN2026 01:25:11 35.0N 140.0E MB=4.6 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
O: 29JAN2026 02:47:50 35.0N 139.9E mb=4.6 EMSC NEAR S. COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Sumbawa, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sumbawa, Indonesia in Kuta Bali and Praya Nusa Tenggara Barat.
This epicenter is at the seventh node from Honshu and the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 28JAN2026 18:30:15 8.6S 118.4E MB=5.1 EMSC SUMBAWA REGION, INDONESIA
NEIC reported earthquake of M greater than 5.0 in Central Mindanao, Philippines in the Moro Gulf continued to be felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sangay, Philippines with III i Kulaman and II in Davao and Buayan.
The largest of this swarm in the Moro Gulf today was an M 5.6. NEIC reported it was felt in Mindanao with V in Dansuli; IV in Polonuling, Conel and III in Buayan, Koronadal and San Jose.
This summary discussed this swarm in the previous issue. Readers are referred
to that issue for further information.
O: 28JAN2026 10:28:23 6.2N 123.6E MB=4.4 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 28JAN2026 12:55:28 6.3N 123.8E mb=4.6 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 19:45:11 6.3N 123.7E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 14:08:57 6.4N 123.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 15:58:05 6.4N 123.8E mb=5.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 23:43:56 6.4N 123.8E mb=5.0 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 07:43:30 6.5N 123.7E mb=4.6 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 12:20:27 6.5N 123.7E ML=4.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 12:45:49 6.5N 123.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 13:41:32 6.5N 123.7E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 14:33:12 6.5N 123.8E mb=4.9 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 14:36:32 6.5N 123.7E ML=4.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 29JAN2026 00:33:18 6.5N 123.7E ML=4.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 08:34:32 6.6N 123.8E mb=5.4 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 08:38:47 6.6N 123.7E mb=5.6 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 08:43:45 6.6N 123.9E mb=5.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 09:24:34 6.6N 123.9E mb=4.9 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 09:30:28 6.6N 123.7E ML=4.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii with III in Pahala and II in Kailua Kona Mountain View, Laupahoehoe and Volcano.
O: 28JAN2026 12:52:58 19.2N 155.5W ML=3.6 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Jamaica was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Jamaica with IV in Gordon Town and Constant Spring, Saint Andrew, Mona, Kingston.
The last significant earthquake in Jamaica occurred on October 30, 2023 with M 5.4.
At the time this summary noted:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.4-5.5 shook much of the island of Jamaica today. NEIC reported maximum shaking with intensity VIII in Jamaica at Mona, Kingston, Above Rocks, Saint Catherine; VI in Kingston, Half Way Tree, Constant Spring an dHope Bay, Portland and V in Port Antonio, Stony Hill, Gordon Town and Anotto Bay, Saint Mary, Saint Andrew. It was reported felt as far as Montego Bay, Saint James, Jamaica and in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.
This is the strongest earthquake in Jamaica within about 200 km of this epicenter
since an M 5.8 on January 17, 2017. At the time of the this event this summary noted:
"The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8-5.9 in Cuba. This event
was reported felt with intensity VI in Guisa, Cuba and II in Guantanamo. In Jamaica
intensity IV was felt in Ocho Rios and II-III in Spaldings, Half Way Tree, Saint Andrew, and Montego Bay, Saint James.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=5.8 was an
on May 25, 1992 with M 6.8, a month before M 7.5 in Landers, Southern California. Forecast 104360 had expected this earthquake was possibly around January 20
to the west of this epicenter. Cuba is not a highly seismic area and the occurrence
of this event at this time may be related to the general activation of the northern Caribbean" (January 17, 2017)
Two moderate earthquake have occurred in Jamaica in the past three years - an M 4.3 on September 22, 2023 and an
M 4.6 on April 15, 2023." (October 30, 2023)
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and at 145 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources.
O: 28JAN2026 08:47:38 18.0N 76.7W ML=3.2 EMSC JAMAICA REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE (18P)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 18P 2026-01-29 00:00 UT 24.9S 173.0E 55 kts Fiji
Tropical cyclone 18P continued in the Fiji Islands today with winds up to 55 kts. This cyclone is tracking to the southeast and could help promote some enhanced seismicity in the Fiji Islands in the next two days. The antipode is at 25N 7W, an aseismic area of north Africa.
A tropical cyclone may be forming over Madagascar. This system is currently located at 16S 42E and moving to the east with winds up to 30 kts. Some seismicity in east Africa could be enhanced as this storm makes landfall in the next two days. The antipode at 16N 138W is near Hawaii and could see additional enhancement as this storm moves to the east.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 28, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2340 0700 0707 0722 C1.3 (January 28, 2026) 1.6E-03
Southern Alaska M 3.3 07:06 UT
2390 2119 2123 2127 C1.3 (January 28, 2026) 7.0E-04
Kuril Is. M 4.4 21:34 UT
Moro Gulf M 3.3 21:19 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 29 unsettled January 30-31. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 24, high: 36, mid-latitude: 15, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6 Global AP 5.3 2100-2400 UT; Sunspot Number: 135; Radio Flux: 133
A moderate geomagnetic storm of G1 occurred with AP reaching 5.33 late on January 28
and early on January 29, 2026. This storm may have triggered the strongest
earthquake of the day - an M 6.0 in the South Sandwich Islands which occurred
as that area was near local solar midnight when geomagnetic effects maximize.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 28, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
An unprecedented earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today off the coast of Baja and Southern California
in the Pacific Ocean. Catalogs show no events within about 500 km of this epicenter
with M>=4.5 in the historical record stretching back several hundred years.
The origin of today's event is not known at this time. A meteor hitting the
ocean would have had to be quite large to register as an earthquake of M 4.8
and would have produced a measurable tsunami - which was not observed. No tectonics
in the area suggest the likelihood of an event of this magnitude. One hint
may cone from the timing of this event with occurred within minutes of local
solar noon - a time when geomagnetic and/or tidal stresses are often maximized.
Another hint may come from an earthquake of M 3.1 off the coast of Port Orford, Oregon
which occurred about 15 minutes after the North Pacific event. The ScS seismic
wave from the Pacific arrived off Oregon after that amount of time and could
have been involved in triggering it. Other waves from the North Pacific event arrived in Oregon at about 3 minutes
(P- and S-phases) and 6 minutes (surface wave). The location of this earthquake
is upslope from the San Andreas in Southern California. Stresses from that
fault system in this area may be akin to those of outer rise earthquakes. In
those situations as subduction occurs and is blocked stress accumulates
on the outer rise of the subduction zone and can lead to moderate earthquakes
which are characteristic of compression. Some have speculated that these
can indicate a major event downslope in the near future - in this case
in the area of Baja or Southern California. And indeed, several of the major
recent earthquakes along the San Andreas in California have seen unusual
Pacific earthquakes within two weeks prior to their occurrence (as in
April, 1906 in San Francisco and in October, 1989). An M 3.2 did occur
about half an hour after the Pacific event in Baja California today. A strong
swarm in southern Texas also began less than an hour after the Pacific event. The occurrence of a
moderate M 4.5 today in Hawaii may be part of this pattern as well. Pacific
hurricanes which strike Hawaii often pass near this event in the Pacific
before arriving in Hawaii about a week later.
This epicenter is at 60.0 degrees (node 6) from the North Geomagnetic pole
and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 27JAN2026 21:10:25 28.7N 129.4W MB=4.8 EMSC NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN
O: 27JAN2026 21:53:13 31.5N 115.7W ML=3.2 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.9 in the Moro Gulf of southern Philippines. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Central Mindanao at Dansuli and Tulunan; IV in Banga, Buayan, San Jose; III in Maasim, Katnagawan and II in Midsayap, Polanco and Koronadal, Mindanao.
It was accompanied by a swarm of foreshocks and aftershocks which were also
This earthquake occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
felt in this general area. The last earthquake within about 200 km of today's M 5.9
in Moro Gulf, Philippines was an M 7.1 on July 11, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake hit at a deep focus (620 km) in beneath eastern Mindanao today with M 7.1. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to VI at the surface at Sangay, Philippines.
EMSC reported light shaking in the Philippines at General Santos City, Davao City, and in Indonesia at Manado, Mapanget, Wenang, in Malaysia t Kota Kinabalu.
PHIVOLCS reported this earthquake was felt with intensity IV in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental;
and III in the City of Cebu, Davao Occidental, Davao Orietal, Sultan Kudarat, and II in City of Iloilo, Davao de Oro, Daval del Norted, Catabato, Sarangani, City of General Santos
with lesser regional shaking.
...
The last earthquake within about 200 km of today's epicenter in the Philippines was an M 7.3, 7.4 and 7.6
on July 23, 2010. At the time this summary noted:
"A series of three major earthquakes hit in the Moro Gulf of Mindanao, Philippines
today at the great depth of around 600 km. As is typical of major earthquakes
at great depth, these events were felt widely on the surface with light to
moderate shaking. NEIC reported intensity IV in Abucay, Bicol, Philippines
and Purikay, Central Mindanao and Tanauan, Eastern Visayas, 500 km to the
north of the epicenter. Intensity II-III was felt in Mindanao at Alabel, Cagayan,
Davao, Korondal, Manila, Palo, Panabo, and Tagbilaran. The largest event was
felt with intensity V in Tagum, Cotabato and Purikay and IV in Recodo, Digos and III in
Polomolok, Mati, Philippines as as far as 2000 km to the north in Taiwan.
The earthquakes were also felt in Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia with
intensity II-III. No damage or injuries were reported with these events and
no tsunami occurred due to the great depth. Major earthquakes at great
depth seldom occur in pairs and it is quite uncommon for them to occur
in groups of 3-4 with a strong aftershock sequence. This is due to the
nature of the brittleness of the earth in the great heat at 600 km depth.
A strong foreshock of M 6.0 hit the Moro Gulf region on May 31. These are the strongest earthquakes in the Moro Gulf since an M 8.1 in August, 1976 which killed more than 5000
people. Shallow earthquakes hit on March 5, 2002 and on January 1, 2001 with
M 7.5. The event in 2002 killed 15 and injured 100 while damaging or destroying
800 buildings in southern Mindanao. ..." (July 11, 2024)
These epicenters are at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole
and at the tenth node (36 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may have been
promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 27JAN2026 17:41:05 6.3N 123.7E ML=4.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 28JAN2026 05:08:20 6.4N 123.8E mb=5.0 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 05:38:54 6.4N 123.7E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 15:50:37 6.5N 123.8E Mw=4.9 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 17:05:10 6.5N 123.8E Mw=5.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 18:25:34 6.5N 123.7E ML=3.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 23:20:02 6.5N 123.9E mb=4.6 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 01:41:50 6.5N 123.8E mb=5.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 02:23:10 6.5N 123.7E ML=4.5 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 03:33:46 6.5N 123.8E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 06:31:20 6.5N 123.9E mb=5.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 06:47:01 6.5N 123.8E Mw=5.9 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 07:43:30 6.5N 123.7E mb=4.6 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 14:47:37 6.6N 123.6E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 19:54:13 6.6N 123.8E Mw=5.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 03:24:28 6.6N 124.0E mb=5.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 28JAN2026 06:52:34 6.7N 123.5E mb=4.9 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 27JAN2026 17:43:59 6.4N 123.8E MB=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Oregon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oregon at Gold Beach and II in Eugene with lesser possible shaking in Brookings, Bandon, Port Orfrd and Crescent City, California.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 2.6 in Oregon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oregon at Gold Beach.
These epicenters are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 27JAN2026 21:25:04 42.6N 124.4W ML=3.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OREGON
O: 27JAN2026 22:26:04 42.7N 124.4W ML=2.5 EMSC OREGON
O: 27JAN2026 12:29:32 44.6N 123.9W ML=2.3 EMSC OREGON
An earthquake of M 3.9 also occurred today in Southern Ontario, Canada near Barrie and Orillia. EMSC reported it was felt in Ontario at Beaverton and Zephyr with a loud thunderous noise in Orillia, Lindsay, Barrie, and like an avalanche in Keswick, Stoney Point, Caesarea, Innisfil, Uxbridge, Peterborough, Angus, Blackstock, Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, Richmond Hill, Rouge, Cobourg, Old East York, Mount Olive, Silverstone, Jamestown, Younge-St. Clair, Junction area, Runnymete, Brampton, Quinte West, Oakville, Thorold, Kitchener, Fort Erie, Irondequoit, and East Rochester, New York.
This earthquake occurred near local solar midnight. The last earthquake
within about 150 km of this epicenter in Ontario, Canada with M>=3.9
occurred as an M 4.2 on October 20, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"A series of strong and unusual earthquakes hit the U.S. and Canada today.
The strongest was an M 5.7 in the western Fox Islands, Aleutians and
an M 4.1 (NEIS - 5.1 (NEIC) in the Unimak Island, Alaska region. Other earthquake
of M>=3 were located by NEIC and regional networks in the eastern U.S.
northeast of Owen Sound, (Quebec/Ontario) with M 4.2; an M 4.5 in the Tofino
area off the coast of Vancouver Island and Tofino, BC. and in northern California
east of Eureka and Willow Creek (M 4.0)." (October 20, 2005)
The only event in the area within about 400 km of this epicenter in Ontario
of significantly larger magnitude than today's M 3.9 was an M 4.4 on May 17, 2013.
At the time this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.4-5.2 hit the area of Ontario northeast of Shawville,
Quebec today. Earthquakes Canada gave this M 5.2 (local Nuttli Magnitude - 4.6 MW) and European networks gave
it M 4.9. The smaller value of M 4.4 came from NEIC and is probably on the
low side. It is estimated the quake was felt by more than 10 million people. Earthquakes Canada reported it was felt in the Ottawa-Gatineau area
as far as Montreal, Toronto and Waterloo. NEIC reported the mainshock was
felt with intensity II-IV in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut,
New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, Indiana,
Michigan and Minnesota and in Quebec and Ontario, Canada. A series of aftershocks of M>2.5
followed with the largest of M 4.1. Aftershocks were felt in New York, Vermont,
Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Michican, Ontario and Quebec with intensity II-III.
A complete listing of felt reports is found under the CANADIAN QUAKES section below. Minor damage occurred as objects fell from shelves. The earthquake was accompanied
by a loud earthquake noise which led many to believe an explosion had occurred.
Earthquake Canada data shows this is the strongest
earthquake in the are within about 200 km of the epicenter since an M 5.5 about 200
km southeast of this on April 20, 2002. Two earthquakes of M>=5 have occurred
in the region within about 100 km of today's epicenter in the past 25 years - an
M 5.0 about 80 km northeast of this on June 23, 2010 and a similar M 5.0 to the
northeast on October 19, 1990. A strong M3.2 flare (#5490) was just ending when
this earthquake occurred and may have triggered this event. Forecast 73150
had expected this event within about 70 km of the epicenter to occur in
New York State between May 16 and 21. Followers of the P103 theory that posits
that unusual seismicity may occur near 103 degrees from large earthquakes
following those events due to concentrations of seismic energy at this distance
may be interested that the Ontario earthquake is located at 104-105 degrees
from the last major earthquake in the world - the M 7.0 in the Mariana
Islands of May 14." (May 17, 2013)
This epicenter is near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 28JAN2026 03:59:16 44.6N 79.1W MB=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN ONTARIO, CANADA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Tajikistan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Tajikistan in Kashgar, China, Osh, Kyrgyzstan and Fergana, Uzbekistan.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from the North geomagnetic pole and
from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by constructive interference
of energy from those sources.
O: 27JAN2026 23:32:54 38.2N 74.1E MB=4.5 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in the Ionian Sea was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Ionian Sea in Ambelokipoi, Chora, Greece.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
O: 27JAN2026 17:53:31 37.4N 20.2E MB=4.7 EMSC IONIAN SEA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Hawaii in Captain Cook, Leilani Estates, Kalaoa, Honoka'a, Hawi.
NEIC reported it was felt throughout the island of Hawaii with intensity IV in
Hakalau and Pahala; III in Laupahoehoe, Waikoloa, Kealakekua, Captain Cook, Mountain View, Volcano, Pepeekeo, Paauilo, Kula, Keaau, Holualoa, Naalehu, Kailua Kona, Honokaa, Kurtistown, Pahoa, Papaikou, Hilo, Honomu, Hawi and II in many other communities in Hawaii.
This earthquake occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted
by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which often maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake in Hawaii within about with M>=4.5 ocurred as an M 4.6
on November 26, 2025. The last of significantly larger magnitude in the area was an
M 5.7 on August 22, 2024. At the time of the November, 2025 event this summary
noted:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in southern Hawaii Island was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of southern Hawaii Island at Hakalau, Hilo, Laupahoehoe, Mountain View, Pepeekeo, Kurtistown, Papaikou, Pahoa, Keaau, Volcano, Honokaa and III in Pahala, Waikoloa, Ninole, Hawaii National Park, among other communities in Hawaii.
This is the largest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today and the strongest
in Hawaii within about 150 km of this epicenter since an M 4.8 on November 5, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.8 in Hawaii. NEIC reported it was widely felt in the island of Hawaii with intensity V at Hawaii National Park, Kailua Kona, Kurtistown, Pahala, Volcano; IV in Captain Cook, Hauula, Hawi, Hilo, Holualoa, Naalehu, Paauilo, Pahoa, III in Hakalau, Honaunau, Honokaa, Honomu, Waikoloa, Kamuela, Keaan, Kalakekua, Kihei, Laupahoehoe, Mountain View, Ninole, Ookala, Papaaloa, Papaikou, Pepeekeo, Kailua, Kapaau, Lahaina, and Honolulu.
This events was felt with strong intensity throughout the island of Hawaii with particular note waking many at Pahala, Naalehu, Hawaiian Ocean View, Captain Cook, Volcano, Mountain View, Kailua, Hilo, Pepeekeo, Waikoloa, as a thunderous shake in Kamuela, Honokaa. It follows a period of three days of torrential rains in Hawaii. This event occurred near local solar midnight in Hawaii with the start of the U.S.
Election Day. The rainfall was associated with the dissipation of Tropical Storm Lane
as described in previous issues of this summary:
"TS Lane continued today in the area Southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 35 kts and is likely to track to the north and west for the next several days, It is tracking to the northwest. Enhanced seismicity in the region of Hawaii as this storm is in the region. Enhanced seismicity in Hawaii is expected around November 2-5." (November 2-4, 2024)
This event in Hawaii is the strongest in Hawaii since an M 5.7 on February 9, 2024 and an M 5.1 on December 5, 2023.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or the world today was an M 5.7 in the
Mauna Loa region of Hawaii (initially given as M 6.3). NEIC reported
it was felt as far as Honolulu and throughout the island of Hawaii with intensity
up to VII. Foreshocks of M 2.9 and 3.0 were also reported felt in Pahala, Hawaii
with intensity up to IV. EMSC reported strong to violent shaking in Hawaii at
Naalehu, Mountain View (with oud earthquake nose) Kealakekua, Fern Acres, Keaau, Pahoa, Hilo, Kailua Kona, Pepeekeo, Honokaa, Wailea, Wailuku, Maui, Lahaina, Honolulu, Kailua, Kaneohe, Jbphh, r.Minor damage which included items being thrown from shelves
and minor damage to structures was reported which included cracked walls. This is the strongest
earthquake in Hawaii since an M 6.2 on October 10, 2021 and an M 6.9 on
May 4, 2018 - the largest in Hawaii in the past 35 years. the only other event in
Hawaii with M>=6.2 in this time period was an M 6.7 on October 15, 2006. At the time of the October, 2021 event this summary noted:
A strong earthquake of M 6.2 shook most of the state of Hawaii, U.S. today. It was reported with maximum intensity VI in Naalehu; V in Hawaii National Park, Captain Cook, Honaunau, Volcano, Mountain View, IV in Pahala, Holualoa, Pahoa, Kealakekua with lesser shaking as far to the west as Waimea.
There have been only two earthquakes in Hawaii with M>=6.2 in the past 30 years - both
north of today's epicenter in central and northern Hawaii Island - on May 4, 2018
with M 6.9 and as an M 6.7 on October 15, 2006. Today's earthquake occurred near the Loi'hi Seamount south of Hawaii and is not
directly associated with the current major eruption of Kilauea volcano to the north.
The shaking caused some doors to open and some items to be thrown from shelves
in businesses. No major damage or casualties were reported and a tsunami does not
appear to have been generated with this earthquake. The earthquake occurred within minutes of the maximum of a geomagnetic storm at local solar noon and
was probably promoted by high tidal stresses associated with the new moon and the geomagnetic storm, which stresses maximize near this hour, as
noted in this and previous issues of this summary" (February 9, 2024, November 5, 2024)
The M 4.6 in Hawaii today occurred within minutes of local solar midnight
and during a major eruption of Mount Kilauea and may have been promoted by
strong tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour." (November 26, 2025)
The M 4.5 in Hawaii today appears to have been triggered by SFE from
solar flares 2120 and 2130 (C3.1 and C2.9) as it occurred during both
of these flares which were the strongest solar flares reported today.
Data for this flares from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2120 0915 0929 0939 C3.1 (January 27, 2026) 4.1E-03
2130 0939 0943 0945 C2.9 (January 27, 2026) 1.6E-03
Hawaii M 4.5 09:38 UT
O: 27JAN2026 09:37:36 19.2N 155.5W ML=4.5 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 5.2 and 5.4 in the Ascension Island region of the south Atlantic were not felt in the area.
These events began about an hour from local solar midnight and may have been
promoted by geomagnetic stresses as this epicenter is near the geomagnetic
equator.
This epicenter is at 101-104 degrees from the North and South Geomagnetic poles;
and at 145 degrees from Honshu and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 28JAN2026 01:58:32 11.7S 14.1W MB=5.4 EMSC ASCENSION ISLAND REGION
O: 28JAN2026 02:58:43 11.6S 13.9W MB=5.2 EMSC ASCENSION ISLAND REGION
NEIC reported an M 2.2 in South Carolina today. That agency reported this earthquake was felt in South Carolina with intensity III in Ridgeway, Camden, and II in Elgin, Columbia, Lugoff, Lancaster.
Like the earthquakes in Ascension Atlantic this epicenter is at 145 degrees from Honshu and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 27JAN2026 20:32:42 34.2N 80.7W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTH CAROLINA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE (18P)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 18P 2026-01-28 00:00 UT 22.0S 173.0E 70 kts Loyalty Is./ Fiji
Tropical cyclone 18P formed in southern Vanuatu and the Loyalty Islands today with winds up to 70 kts. This cyclone is tracking to the southeast and could help promote some enhanced seismicity in southern Vanuatu and the Loyalty Islands in the next two days. The antipode is at 22N 7W, an aseismic area of north Africa.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 27, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2100 0230 0238 0245 C1.9 (January 27, 2026) 1.7E-03
Hokkaido M 5.0 02:47 UT
Java M 4.4 02:47 UT
Hawaii M 2.1 02:45 UT
2110 0406 0420 0438 C2.8 (January 27, 2026) 4.5E-03
Kuril Is. M 5.1 04:29 UT
Andreanof Is. M 3.5 03:21 UT
2120 0915 0929 0939 C3.1 (January 27, 2026) 4.1E-03
2130 0939 0943 0945 C2.9 (January 27, 2026) 1.6E-03
Hawaii M 4.5 09:38 UT
2140 1303 1309 1314 C2.0 (January 27, 2026) 1.3E-03
2310 2330 2340 2347 C2.7 (January 27, 2026) 2.4E-03
Tajikistan M 4.5 23:32 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 23:48 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 28 active January 29 unsettled January 30. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 17, mid-latitude: 7, time of max AP: 11:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 100; Radio Flux: 144
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 27, 2026 at 17:50:34 UT (#260127A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An M 4.7 in the Ionian Sea of Italy occurred at 17:53 UT following an M 2.5 foreshock at 17:52 UT and an M 2.7 at 17:51 in the Dodecanese Islands.
The GOES magnetometers showed a moderate increase in field strength of about 10% at the
time (17:50 UT) of this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 27, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In general the most powerful earthquakes of the day moved from high latitudes
(see previous reports) to latitudes near the geomagnetic equator today.
These included an M 5.7 in Java and an M 5.6 in Papua New Guinea.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.7 in Java, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt in Java with IV in Kartosura, Wlingi; III in Kanigoro, Sumber Pucung, Prambanan, Malang, Jaten, Sewon, Yogakarta and II in Kuta, Bali.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Java at Madiun, Wonogiri, Pacitan, Ngawi, Ngasem, Sewon, Pugeran Maguwoharjo, Kesamben, Blitar, Melati, Batu, Niwen, Malang, Kambingan, Legian, Kuta, Banjar Batanpoh, Ubud, Banjar Taman, Sanur, Bali, Banjar Medura, Biaslantang Kaler, Maros and Biaslantang Kaler, Amed, Karengasem, Bali.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.6 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia with III in Wonosari, Yogyakarta.
EMSC reported the aftershock was felt with moderate intensity in Java at Pundong, "Yogyakarta, Pugeran Maguwoharjo, Sleman, Melati.
The last earthquake of M>=5.7 within about 200 km of today's Java epicenter
occurred on June 30, 2023 with M 5.8. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 5.8-6.4 shook the region of Java, Indonesia today.
BMG reported this earthquake of M 6.4 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia with VI in Pracimantoro, Wonogiri, Java, Pacitan; V in Wonogiri, Gunungkidul, Kebumen, Purworejo, Mageland, Kulon Progo, Bantul, Gunungkidul, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Pacitan, Ponorogo, Pasuruan, Mojokerto, Bojonegoro, Lombok.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.9 in Bali, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Bali, Indonesia in Kuta.
News sources reported the quake injured at least 10 people while one person died of a heart attack during the quake.
The associated shaking caused minor damage to hundreds of residences, offices and health and school facilites
mainly in Yogyakarta and Central Java. No tsunami was expected or observed with
This earthquake may have been triggered by SFE from flare #6340 which was ending
simultaneously with this earthquake (see flare list below).
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in
Java since an M 6.1 on January 25, 2014. The last event of M>=6.4
in this area occurred more than 35 years ago." (June 30, 2023)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the
South Geomagnetic Pole; and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 27JAN2026 01:20:42 7.9S 111.4E MW=5.7 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.3 in western Texas. NEIC reported it was widely felt with maximum intensity V in Ira, Texas; III in Fluvanna, Big Spring, Lubbock, Johnson City, Snyder, Levelland, Meadow, and II in Odessa, Midland. It was also felt lightly as far as 700 km from the epicenter in Stigler, Oklahoma and Rye, Colorado.
EMSC reported strong shaking in western Texas at Snyder and Big Spring.
The last earthquake of M>=4.3 within about 200 km of today's event in Western
Texas occurred as an M 4.3 on October 12, 2025 and prior to that an M 4.8 on
February 28, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.8 in Western Texas. NEIC reported it was widely felt in Western Texas with maximum intensity V at Austin, Hermleigh, Tarzan and IV in San Angelo, Allen, Goodfellow, Bronte, Sterling City, Dryden, Lamesa, Ralls, Roscoe, Rtoan, Snyder, Dyess AFB, Midland, Ackerly, Big Spring, Garden City, Stanton, and Eunice among others. Lesser shaking was felt in Illinois, Kansas. New Mexico.
Like recent earthquakes in Texas this may have promoted by a Tropical Cyclone
off the west coast of southern Australia. This cyclone (Bianca) is currently
dissipating near 31N 100E in the antipodal region of today's Texas event.
The earthquake in western Texas was preceded by an unusual M 3.0 in the Chihuahua, Mexico region minutes earlier.
This event was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity IV in Roswell and III in Carlsbad and Alto , New Mexico and III in Texas at Alpine, Salt Fla5, El Paso, Pecos, and II in Chihuahua, Mexico.
An M 4.7 occurred today in northern Canada in the Arctic Ocean. It was not reported
felt in this remote area." (February 28, 2025)
This epicenter is located at the third node from Mindanao and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 10:22:38 32.6N 101.1W ML=4.3 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 19:04:15 31.5N 104.0W ML=2.4 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 16:42:45 31.6N 104.1W ML=2.1 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 17:48:11 31.6N 104.0W ML=2.0 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 07:46:49 31.7N 104.5W ML=2.4 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Baja California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baja California, Mexico in Puebla.
O: 27JAN2026 04:36:27 32.5N 115.3W ML=2.5 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in North Island, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of North Island, New Zealand with III in Wellington at Kapiti and II in Lower Hutt.
EMSC reported light shaking in New Zealand at Kelburn, Kaori and Picton.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
GeoNet gave the following parameters for this event:
O: 27JAN2026 00:53:34 40.4S 174.8E MB=4.6 GEONET Felt with moderate to strong intensity in the area of Southern North Island, New Zealand and northern South Island. 5064 reports of felt events were made of which 3294 reported weak and 1647 light intensity with 113 reports of moderate shaking and 6 with strong and 0 severe and 4 with extreme intensity came from the area.
O: 27JAN2026 00:53:34 40.4S 174.8E MB=4.5 EMSC COOK STRAIT, NEW ZEALAND
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Papua New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Papua New Guinea with IV in Goroka and II in Kainantu and III in Kundiawa, Simbu, PNG.
This is the strongest earthquake in New Guinea within about 200 km of this
epicenter since an M 5.8 on September 5, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in Papua New Guinea. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II-III in Papua at Porgera Enga, Mount Hagen and Kiunga Fly River, PNG.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in New Guinea with
equal of larger magnitude was an M 6.3 on April 7, 2018 and more
recently an M 7.0 about 150 km northeast of this on April 2, 2023. Today's
event may be an aftershock of that event. At the time this summary noted:
"The last earthquake of M>=7.0 within about 200 km of today's epicenter occurred as an M 7.2
on September 8, 2002 and an M 7.0 on July 17, 1998, the only such regional
events in the past 35 years." (April 2, 2023)
This epicenter is located near the geomagnetic equator and was probably
promoted by strong geomagnetic stresses associated with the geomagnetic
storm of September 2-5." (September 5, 2023)
Like earthquakes in southern Alaska and Montana today this epicenter is located
at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan. It is also at the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Kamchatka and the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and near
the fourth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 26JAN2026 17:06:23 6.5S 143.6E MW=5.6 EMSC NEW GUINEA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
O: 26JAN2026 21:53:26 6.5S 143.6E mb=4.6 EMSC NEW GUINEA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Anchorage and II in Eagle River, Wasilla, Chugiak, Willow.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 14:38:18 61.5N 150.0W ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Western Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Montana in Dillon.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole;
the seventh node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka; the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Honshu, Japan and 105 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from these sources.
O: 26JAN2026 11:05:59 45.3N 112.6W ML=2.5 EMSC WESTERN MONTANA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Argentina at Coquimbo, Chile.
O: 26JAN2026 22:11:39 30.8S 70.1W MB=4.4 EMSC SAN JUAN, ARGENTINA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
A tropical cyclone may be forming in central Vanuatu. This system is currently at 14S 168E and tracking to the southeast with winds up to 28 kts. It could help promote some enhanced seismicity in central Vanuatu in the next two days. The antipode is at 14N 12W, an aseismic area of north Africa.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 26, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2030 0209 0221 0230 C2.9 (January 26, 2026) 3.4E-03
Southern Mid-Atlantic M 5.0 02:11 UT M 5.8 02:49 UT
2060 1220 1231 1240 C1.8 (January 26, 2026) 2.0E-03
Yellowstone M 2.1 12:31 UT
2070 1325 1339 1351 C8.8 (January 26, 2026) 8.3E-03
Pakistan M 4.1 13:44 UT
Sumatra M 3.4 13:51 UT
2080 1816 1825 1830 C1.6 (January 26, 2026) 1.3E-03
2090 2313 2322 2331 C5.0 (January 26, 2026) 4.2E-03
Coast of Oregon M 3.0 23:13 UT M 2.7 23:27 UT
Kermadec Is. M 5.2 23:32 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 27 minor storms January 28 active January 29. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 20, mid-latitude: 6, time of max AP: 12:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 115; Radio Flux: 153
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 26, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A series of moderate to moderately large earthquakes occurred today, mostly
at high latitudes. This change in global seismicity had been expected at this
time as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today. High latitudes saw A-index for
the day of 58 one of the strongest in the past month. This should help
promoted high latitude seismicity in the next day." (January 25, 2026)
The largest of today's events occurred in the South Atlantic (M 5.8) and
the Macquarie Island area south of Australia (M 5.7).
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in the Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Iwas
not reported felt in this area of the South Atlantic geomagnetic anomaly. An M 5.0 preceded the mainshock.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter since
an M 6.2 on June 25, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.2 in the Southern Mid-Atlantic area. It was not reported felt in this remote area.
This event may have been promoted by near-antipodal energies from Tropical Storm
Sepat - currently located near its antipode off eastern Honshu Japan.
...
It is also likely that the earthquake in the South Atlantic was promoted
by high tidal stresses with today's new moon as described in previous issues
of this summary:
...
This area of the South Atlantic Geomagnetic Anomaly does occasionally see
strong earthquakes. The last such occurred 10 years ago June 17, 2015 with
M 7.0 but others have occurred on February 16, 2005 (M 6.5); April 24, 1998 (M 6.3) and January 3, 1998 (M 6.2).
When the M 7.0 occurred 10 years ago, this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 today in the South Atlantic Ocean was apparently triggered
by tidal stresses. The earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon,
a prime time for tidal stresses. The new moon yesterday also reached maximum
near this Atlantic longitude, further evidence that this event was timed by
tidal stresses. This was enhanced by the geomagnetic effects as the epicenter
is located about 15 degrees south of the local geomagnetic equator." (June 17, 2015)
and
"Today's earthquake of M 6.4 in the South Atlantic was the strongest
event in the region (30-40S 0-20W) in more than 50 years (a similar event
of M 6.4 hit near this epicenter on June 3, 1981). Earthquakes of similar
size were reported in the region on Aug. 2, 1939 and Sept. 20, 1946. No
earthquakes of M>6.5 have ever been located in the region. While this
event was of a magnitude that could generate a minor landslide tsunami,
tsunamis are seldom generated from mid-ocean ridge earthquakes and no tsunami
watch is being suggested. If a tsunami should occur it is unlikely to be
damaging on the west Africa and east South America coasts." (February 16, 2005, June 25, 2025)
Today's event in the South Atlantic was likely promoted by the major geomagnetic storm of the past several days
as it occurred near local solar midnight in the Southern Atlantic geomagnetic
anomaly region.
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 02:49:39 35.8S 17.3W MW=5.8 EMSC SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
O: 26JAN2026 02:11:20 35.5S 16.7W mb=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
A similar M 5.8 occurred today in the Macquarie Island area south of Australia.
It was not felt in this remote epicentral region. The last event within about 250
km of this epicenter in the area of Macquarie Island with M>=5.7 occurred
with M 5.8 on November 29, 2025. The last event nearer to this epicenter
with M>=6 was an M 6.0 on May 7, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 6.0 in the Macquarie Islands today followed an M 5.4
to the southeast of this on May 5. This summary noted that event at the time as:
"An M 5.4 in the area west of the Macquarie Island area and an M 5.1 in the
Southwest Indian Ridge. An M 6.1 hit the area west of Macquarie Island
on March 20, 2021 about 400 km southeast of today's epicenter but the last of
similar or larger magnitude within about 200 km of today's epicenter occurred
as an M 5.7 on November 8, 2016 and prior to that as an M 5.5 on December 24, 2014.
The antipode of this event is at 57N 33W in the Reykjanes Ridge in the north Atlantic Ridge
south of Iceland. Some seismic enhancement in this region is possible following
today's event in the Macquarie Island area." (May 6, 2021, May 7, 2021)
...
This event followed the strongest solar flare observed by SWPC since an M4.4
on November 29, 2020 and was measured by SWPC at M3.9." (May 7, 2021)
This epicenter is at 142 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 06:07:18 54.7S 143.8E MW=5.7 EMSC WEST OF MACQUARIE ISLAND
O: 26JAN2026 07:08:59 54.7S 143.8E mb=5.0 EMSC WEST OF MACQUARIE ISLAND
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Gansu, China was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Gansu, China in Lanzhou.
This earthquake occurred near local noon and was probably promoted by tidal
and/or geomagnetic stresses which tend to maximize near this hour. This is the
strongest earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter since an M 5.9
on December 18, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.2 hit the region of Gansu in northwestern China today. NEIC reported maximum intensity VIII in China near Linxia Chengguanzhen. An aftershock of M 4.6 was also widely felt in the area. Initial
reports indicate that at least 116 people were killed this event with more than 700
injured. Most damage occurred in Jishishan County. NEIC gave the event M 5.9. Severe damage was report to houses, roads and power
structures in the region as well as other infrastructure. Winter weather
conditions make finding survivors difficult and many will not survive the freezing temperatures
while confined under rubble. It is likely this was promoted by a severe geomagnetic
storm of the past several days following the X2.8 flare of December 14 as noted
in previous issues of this summary:
"The geomagnetic field saw disturbed conditions today. The AP level was 16. High latitudes saw minor storm conditions with AP 30. Middle latitudes were at disturbed conditions with AP 16. An X2.8 solar flare occurred between 17:00 and 18:00 UT today. This is the strongest solar flare since early September, 2017. Like the flares in early September today's flare was accompanied by a strong increase in seismicity in the region of eastern Mexico and Guatemala. The CME from this storm is expected to arrive around December 17-18 in the earth vicinity and may trigger a strong geomagnetic storm at that time which, in turn, may strongly promote global seismic activity in the several days after that time." (December 15, 2023)
The last earthquake with M>=6.2 in the area of Gansu or Qinghai, China within about
200 km of today's epicenter was an M 6.3-6.5 on April 26, 1990 nearly 35 years ago." (December 18, 2023)
Like this event in December, 2023 today's earthquake in Gansu, China followed
a major X2.0 Solar flare and major geomagnetic storm and was likely
promoted by those.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from the South Geomagnetic Pole; at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 26JAN2026 06:56:03 34.1N 103.4E MB=5.5 EMSC GANSU, CHINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in San Juan Islands, Washington State was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Juan Islands, Washington State with III in Lopez Island, and II in Anacortes, Freeland, Friday Harbor and Auburn and II in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada with lesser shaking in Washington at Oak Harbor, Bow and Coupeville.
An earthquake of M 2.6 hit south of this near Seattle earlier in the day. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity I-II in Washington at Port Orchard and Bainbridge Island.
O: 25JAN2026 23:58:08 47.6N 122.6W ML=2.6 EMSC SEATTLE-TACOMA AREA, WASHINGTO
O: 26JAN2026 00:00:00 47.6N 122.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SEATTLE-TACOMA AREA, WASHINGTON
O: 26JAN2026 04:04:27 48.5N 122.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SAN JUAN ISLANDS REG, WASHINGT
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tonga in Nuku'alofa, Tongatapu.
O: 26JAN2026 03:31:46 22.0S 174.9W MW=5.4 EMSC TONGA REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Baja California, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baja California, Mexico in Puebla and in Yuma, Arizona.
O: 25JAN2026 21:22:06 31.5N 115.6W ML=3.1 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 northeast of San Francisco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northeast of San Francisco with III i Sacramento and II i Sn Francisco, Pinole, Stockton, Pittsburg, Walnut Creek, Vacaville, Antioch, Hayward and in Gardnerville, Nevada.
This event occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses.
O: 25JAN2026 09:33:56 38.2N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 25JAN2026 09:33:56 38.2N 121.9W MD=3.0 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia near Bambamglipuro.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Java, Indonesia in Pugeran, Melati and Yogyakarta.
O: 25JAN2026 08:51:25 8.9S 110.1E MB=4.9 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Western Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Turkey in Gordes, Akhisar, Balikesir, Saruhanli, Mustafakemalpasa, Usak, Bornova, Izmir, Bayrakli, Gorukle, Tire, Nilufer, Osmangazi, among others.
O: 26JAN2026 00:47:21 39.1N 28.3E MW=4.4 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 25JAN2026 09:29:37 39.2N 28.3E ML=3.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 25JAN2026 09:29:37 39.2N 28.3E ML=3.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Southern Greece was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Greece in Pyrgos, and Patra with a loud earthquake noise.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Peru at Marechal Thaumaturgo, Brazil where houses shook.
O: 25JAN2026 20:29:04 8.8S 74.8W MB=4.6 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Coquimbo, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Coquimbo, Chile in Vina del Mar.
O: 25JAN2026 19:24:39 31.4S 71.7W MW=4.7 EMSC OFFSHORE COQUIMBO, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
A tropical cyclone may be forming in central Vanuatu. This system is currently at 14S 168E and tracking to the southeast with winds up to 28 kts. It could help promoted some enhanced seismicity in central Vanuatu in the next two days. The antipode is at 14N 12W, an aseismic area of north Africa.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 25, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1890 0335 0341 0348 C2.1 (January 25, 2026) 1.6E-03
1900 0404 0413 0417 C2.5 (January 25, 2026) 1.6E-03
1920 0754 0801 0809 C1.7 (January 25, 2026) 1.5E-03
1930 1012 1030 1050 C6.3 (January 25, 2026) 6.8E-03
Taiwan M 4.7 10:49 UT
Southern Texas M 2.1 10:12 UT
1950 1536 1545 1552 C4.5 (January 25, 2026) 2.7E-03
South of Alaska M 4.0 15:41 UT
Central Turkey M 4.0 16:13 UT
1960 1659 1708 1714 C2.3 (January 25, 2026) 2.2E-03
1980 1714 1720 1723 C2.1 (January 25, 2026) 1.4E-03
Java M 2.7 17:17 UT
o. Alaska M 3.0 17:24 UT
1970 1745 1750 1754 C2.2 (January 25, 2026) 1.2E-03
Southern Greece M 4.1 17:56 UT
1990 2059 2108 2116 C4.9 (January 25, 2026) 4.5E-03
Java M 2.6 21:00 UT
Gulf of California M 3.2 21:16 UT
2000 2136 2143 2147 C7.9 (January 25, 2026) 4.1E-03
Kyrgyzstan M 4.3 21:54 UT
Volcano Is. M 5.0 22:02 UT
2010 2205 2213 2219 C3.1 (January 25, 2026) 2.5E-03
Kamchatka M 4.4 22:27 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 26 unsettled January 27 minor storms January 28. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 32, mid-latitude: 12, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 131; Radio Flux: 165
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 25, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The most unusual earthquake in the world today was an M 4.8 in the area of Antananarivo, Madagascar. NEIC reported it felt in Antananarivo and Faratsiho, Madagascar with intensity III-IV.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 300 km of this epicenter in
Madagascar since an M 5.5 on January 11, 2017 and prior to that an M 5.6 on April 21, 1991,
the only such events in the area in the past 35 years. An M 48 also occurred near this
epicenter on May 13, 2020. At the time of the event of January 11, 2017 this summary noted:
"An unusual earthquake of M 5.5 hit the region north of Madagascar today. NEIC
reported it was felt in Madagascar with intensity V in Antsirabe, Antananarivo; Miandrivazo, Toliary; Ifanadiana, Fianarantsoa; Moramanga and Toamasina Madagascar.
On January 7, 2017 this summary noted that the area north of Madagascar was
in the seismic crosshairs as it had the same distance relations to New Zealand and
Los Lagos, Chile as the moderately strong quakes of January 6 had. The note
had read:
"Today's earthquake and forecast map follows. Stippled White areas are
nodal distances (360/n, n an integer) from the earthquake of M 7.9 in
New Zealand of November 13, 2016 where promoted seismicity is
considered likely. Stippled Pink areas are nodal distances (360/n, n
an integer) from the earthquake of M 7.6 in Los Lagos, Chile of
December 25, 2016 where promoted seismicity is considered likely. Note
that the 103 lines from these intersect where the event in Vancouver
occurred today. The other such intersection is in a lightly seismic
area north of Madagascar." (January 7, 2017)
The last earthquake of M>=5.6 to occur within about 250 km of this Madagascar
epicenter was an M 5.6 on April 21, 1991. No earthquakes have hit with this
magnitude within 200 km of this epicenter since an event of similar size )M 5.5-5.6)
on April 4, 1975. No earthquakes of larger magnitude than today's have ever
been recorded in this region. Forecast 104270 had expected a moderate earthquake in the Madagascar area
in early January. The epicenter of this Madagascar earthquake is at 101-106 degrees
from many of the recent major global earthquakes including those in the
Solomon Islands, New Britain, Japan, and New Zealand making it prime territory
for triggering at a distance.
A series of upper strength solar flares has been occurring over the past two days.
The strongest have been in the B 5+ class ranges. The strongest today was a B5.0
flare (#4830). This flare reached maximum output within minutes of local solar
midnight in Madagascar several minutes before the earthquake there. As solar
activity at these levels has been absent for the past two weeks, the timing
of this flare and the subsequent earthquake in Madagascar is probably not
coincidental." (January 11, 2017)
Today's epicenter was sub-solar at the time of occurrence which was within minutes
of local noon. It appears to have been triggered by the strongest solar flare
of the day - a C4.1 (#1760) as it occurred at the maximum output of that flare. The timing and location of this event strongly
suggest geomagnetic and/or tidal triggering. Latitudes exactly sub-solar at
this day of the year are near 17-19 degrees South Latitude.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1760 0820 0831 0838 C4.1 (January 24, 2026) 3.7E-03
Madagascar M 4.8 08:32 UT
A further factor promoted this event in Madagascar at this time was Tropical
Cyclone Dudzai. This storm passed near this epicenter on January 20, 2026.
At the time this summary noted it as:
"Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 121W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to Los Angeles, California at 34N 118-119W around January 21-22, 2026 with winds up to 70 kts where it will dissiapate. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An 4.9 east of Los Angeles on January 19 at 34N 116W may have been promoted by antipodal effects of TC Dudzai. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date." (January 20-21, 2026)
Today's event in Madagascar is located at the third node (120 degrees) from Kamchatka and
at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 24JAN2026 08:32:19 19.2S 46.7E MB=4.8 EMSC MADAGASCAR
Two moderate earthquakes also occurred in the Gulf of California today with
M 4.1 and M 4.3. These were not reported felt in their respective epicentral
areas. They, like recent unusual earthquakes in Utah, Alberta and other western
North American epicenter occurred at 110-111 West longitude. The extreme
geomagnetic storm of the past several days commenced when this area was
at local solar noon and geomagnetic effects from that storm probably
helped trigger these two moderate earthquakes in the Gulf of California today.
This had been discussed in the previous issue of this summary in some detail
as:
(the event of M 4.8 in Utah) " is likely it was promoted by the strong geomagnetic storm of the last several
days as suggested in the previous issue of this summary:
"The current geomagnetic storm - the second strongest in at least 20 years
began to calm down today with Kp values reducing to Kp 4-5 as the day wore
on. Seismicity is generally dampened during strong geomagnetic storms
following the initial shock of the storm. This is thought to occur because
the randomness of the disturbance reduces telluric currents which can
trigger earthquakes. This appears to have occurred in the current situation.
In general, this is followed in the next day or two by a period in which
ionospheric ring currents strongly reform and in which moderate to strong
seismicity can be expected especially in areas which were at local solar
noon or midnight (western U.S) or noon (western Asia and eastern Europe)
at the time of commencement of the storm." (January 22, 20-26)
and
"In the current case, the storm began (according to GOES 18 and GOES 19 magnetometers
at 19:09 UT with a sudden negative shift in geomagnetic field strength and a major
decline in electron flux." (January 20, 2026)
Note that the longitude of this event in Utah at 110W is within minutes of
local solar noon - consistent with long-term triggering by the sudden commencement
of the geomagnetic storm." (January 22-24, 2026)
O: 24JAN2026 12:44:41 26.0N 110.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 13:37:19 27.9N 111.9W ML=4.3 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 20:51:38 27.6N 111.4W ML=3.4 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California near Susanville with III in Sacramento; II in Vacaville and I in Concord, California.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Southeastern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Alaska with V near Yakutat.
O: 25JAN2026 03:56:25 60.5N 139.8W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Southeastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Honshu, Japan near Tokyo at Naka Ibaraki.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Tokyo, Urayasu and Kawasaki Cities.
O: 25JAN2026 02:46:13 36.1N 140.0E ML=4.2 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Western Texas was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Texas with II in El Paso and Carlsbad, New Mexico.
O: 25JAN2026 00:38:07 32.3N 101.7W ML=2.2 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 25JAN2026 00:55:36 31.7N 104.5W Mw=3.8 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 25JAN2026 00:56:34 31.8N 103.8W ML=2.5 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 24JAN2026 20:33:14 31.9N 102.4W ML=2.3 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in the Andreanof Islands, Aleutians, Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Andreanof Islands, Aleutians, Alaska with intensity IV in Adak, Alaska.
O: 24JAN2026 21:25:39 51.9N 176.0W MW=5.3 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
NEIC reported light earthquakes continued to be felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Indio, California east of Los Angeles in Indio and Palm Desert.
O: 24JAN2026 20:38:40 33.5N 116.4W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 16:59:24 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.6 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 18:14:44 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 2.9, 2.6, 2.6 in Southern Utah were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Utah at Cedar City and Hurricane.
O: 24JAN2026 13:06:31 37.6N 113.0W ML=2.5 EMSC UTAH
O: 24JAN2026 13:23:14 37.6N 113.0W ML=2.6 EMSC UTAH
O: 24JAN2026 13:57:16 37.6N 113.0W ML=2.8 EMSC UTAH
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Western Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Nevada at Glenbrook.
O: 24JAN2026 12:50:07 38.2N 118.2W MW=3.4 EMSC NEVADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M in was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Western Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Turkey at Gordes, Bigadic, Akhisar, Kirkagac, Balikesir, Bornova, Gorukle, Nilufer, Osmangazi, Bursa, Beylikduzu.
O: 24JAN2026 07:34:22 39.2N 28.3E MW=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE LUANA (17S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC LUANA 2026-01-25 00:00 UT 17.3S 122.9E 65 kts North of western Australia
Tropical cyclone Luana (17S) continued today with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in northern Australia and central Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 58W is in the Leeward and Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 24, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1012 1030 1050 C6.3 (January 25, 2026) 6.8E-03
Taiwan M 4.7 10:49 UT
Southern Texas M 2.1 10:12 UT
1780 0551 0603 0611 C3.7 (January 24, 2026) 3.7E-03
1760 0820 0831 0838 C4.1 (January 24, 2026) 3.7E-03
Madagascar M 4.8 08:32 UT
1800 1831 1838 1841 C2.7 (January 24, 2026) 1.4E-03
1820 2005 2012 2021 C2.1 (January 24, 2026) 2.0E-03
1830 2109 2119 2124 C2.5 (January 24, 2026) 1.8E-03
Amdreanof Is. M 5.3 21:25 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 25-27. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 17, high: 25, mid-latitude: 12, time of max AP: 14:00 UT; Max AP: 5.3; Sunspot Number: 147; Radio Flux: 174
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 24, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today. High latitudes saw A-index for
the day of 58 - one of the strongest in the past month. This should help
promote high latitude seismicity in the next day.
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.0 and M 4.3 in Alberta, Canada were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Alberta, Canada with III in Grande Prairie, and II in Whitecourt and Grande Cache.
These epicenters which occurred near local solar noon today - like those in Wyoming yesterday occurred at a longitude
which was at local solar noon when the major geomagnetic storm hit several
days ago - was probably promoted by geomagnetic effects. Recent events
near this epicenter with M>=4 occurred on February 20, 2025 (M 4.7) and October 24, 2024 (M 4.6).
"A moderate earthquake also occurred today as an M 4.7 near Grande Cache, Alberta, Canada. NEIC reported it was felt in Alberta, Canada with intensity IV in Fairview, Grande Cache, Sexsmith, II in Fox Creek, Grande Prarie, Spirit River, and in British Columbia at Wembley, Fort Saint John, Prince George, and Tumbler with lesser shaking at Drayton Valley, Hinton, Alberta and in British Columbia at Dawaon and Quesnel.
This is the strong earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 5.0 to the northeast
on March 16, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today occurred as an M 4.5, 4.8 and 5.1
in Alberta, Canada. These were reported by NEIC with intensity V in Alberta in Grimshaw and IV in Peace River with II-III shaking in Falher, High Prairie, Fairview, Valleyview, Spirit River, Slave Lake, Fox Creek, Grand Prairie, Barrhead and Athabasca.
These events are apparently aftershocks of an M 5.3 which hit the same epicenter
on November 30, 2022. At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"The largest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.3 in Alberta, Canada.
The mainshock was felt widely in Alberta with maximum intensity IV in Peace River, Falher, High Prairie, Manning, Fairview, and III in Grimshaw, Valleyview, Slave Lake, Spirit River and Sexsmith.
It was followed by an aftershock of M 4.5 which was reported felt with intensity IV in Alberta at Slave Lake, Whitecourt and II-III in Peace River, High Prairie, Fairview, Grande Prairie, Athabasca, High Leven and Wood Buffalo and in Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Foreshocks of M 4.6 and 4.9 to the M 5.3 was felt in the same area as the mainshock with maximum intensity IV in Alberta at Peace River, High Prairie, Spirit River, Sexsmith, Slave Lake and in Dawson, BC.
This activity is a continuation of events which hit the area on November 22-24, 2022.
That included an M 4.5 which previous to the M 5.3 today was the largest
earthquake in the area in more than 35 years as noted in this summary at the time:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 in Alberta,
Canada. This event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and was
probably promoted by strong tidal stresses with today's new moon. These
maximize near local sola midnight. The mainshock was followed by an M 3.8
aftershock near Reno, Alberta. This is the strongest earthquake within about 200
km of this epicenter in Alberta, Canada in at least 35 years. Smaller quakes hit about
200 km to the south of this as an M 4.2 on January 12, 2016 and an M 4.0 on June 13, 2015." (November 30, 2022, March 16, 2023, February 20, 2025))
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from the South Geomagnetic Pole and at the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 23JAN2026 16:32:58 54.6N 118.3W MB=4.3 EMSC ALBERTA, CANADA
O: 23JAN2026 17:00:06 54.3N 118.5W mb=4.0 EMSC ALBERTA, CANADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Southern Colorado was not felt.
This epicenter was also near local solar noon when the geomagnetic storm
commenced. This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Taiwan and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 16:08:50 36.9N 104.9W ML=2.6 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported aftershocks of M>=2.5 continued in the Indio, California area east of Los Angeles today. NEIC reported they were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California at Palm Desert, Indio, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage.
O: 23JAN2026 23:25:58 33.5N 116.9W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 17:28:09 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 18:36:58 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 01:49:10 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 05:49:09 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 north of Tokyo, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) north of Tokyo, Japan with II in Tokai, Ibaraki.
O: 23JAN2026 21:20:04 36.7N 140.4E MB=4.5 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAP
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Western Turkey was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Turkey with IV in Bandirma, Balikesir; III in Cinarcik, Yalova and II in Istanbul at Istamnbul and Buyukcekmece and Izmir.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Turkey at Bigadic, Gordes, Demirci, Akhisar, Zeytinliova, Kepsut, Balikesir, Simav, Soma among others.
Several moderate aftershocks were also reported felt in the area.
This epicenter is near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Mindanao and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 24JAN2026 07:34:22 39.2N 28.3E MW=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 23JAN2026 13:41:41 39.2N 28.1E ML=3.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 23JAN2026 21:24:38 39.2N 28.3E Mw=4.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Nevada in Yerington.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Honshu and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 24JAN2026 05:45:14 39.2N 119.1W ML=3.0 EMSC NEVADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in Big Creek.
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 24JAN2026 05:45:35 37.3N 119.0W ML=2.6 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Southern Italy was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Italy in Nicastro.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 14:20:53 39.0N 16.4E ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN ITALY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Southern Iran was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Iran in Kamerd, Bandar-e Asaluyeh.
The last earthquak in Iran within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=5.1
occurred on January 6, 2025 with M 5.2. The last of significantly larger magnitude
was an M 5.6 on June 25, 2022. At that time this summary noted:
"A moderate aftershock continued the series of events in southern Iran today. This earthquake of M 5.6 was felt with intensity V in Bandar-e Langeh, Iran and IV in the United Arab Emirates as well as in Qatar with intensity III.
The mainshock of M 5.6 was preceded by an M 4.1 reported felt in the same region with light intensity.
When the shock of M 5.3 hit the area on June 15, this summary noted:
"A series of moderate earthquakes occurred today in the region of southern Iran. NEIC reported they were felt with intensity V in Bandar-e Langeh, Hormozgan, Iran and IV in Abu Dhabi with lesser shaking in Ajman and Dubai, United Arab Emirates and in Qatar.
NEIC reported the earthquake of M 4.9 in Southern Iran was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Southern Iran in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
A foreshock of M 4.7 occurred earlier in the day. Most of this activity occurred
near local solar noon in Iran and may have been promoted by high tidal stresses ... " (June 15, 2022)
An M 5.8 hit north of this in southern Iran on March 16, 2022 but today's event of
M 5.5-5.6 is the strongest event in the current series." (June 25, 2022)
This epicenter is at the fifth node from Honshu, Japan and from Mindanao (72 degrees)
and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 23JAN2026 11:18:07 27.1N 53.3E MB=5.1 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE LUANA (17S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC LUANA 2026-01-24 00:00 UT 17.3S 122.9E 65 kts North of western Australia
Tropical cyclone Luana (17S) continued today with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in northern Australia and central Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 58W is in the Leeward and Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 23, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1510 0016 0024 0030 C4.2 (January 23, 2026) 2.8E-03
1520 0111 0119 0128 C3.2 (January 23, 2026) 2.7E-03
1530 0129 0140 0151 C3.4 (January 23, 2026) 4.8E-03
Indian Ridge M 4.9 01:41 UT
Northern California M 2.7 01:53 UT
1580 0929 0936 0949 C1.8 (January 23, 2026) 2.1E-03
1590 1005 1015 1022 C2.5 (January 23, 2026) 2.4E-03
1600 1259 1314 1326 C3.3 (January 23, 2026) 4.6E-03
1670 2218 2329 0053 C5.9 (January 23, 2026) 4.9E-02
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 24 unsettled January 25-26. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 28, high: 58, mid-latitude: 17, time of max AP: 11:00 UT; Max AP: 7.3; Sunspot Number: 195; Radio Flux: 180
A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today. High latitudes saw A-index for
the day of 58 one of the strongest in the past month. This should help
promoted high latitude seismicity in the next day.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 23, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.2 in Kamchatka, Russia. It occurred near
local solar midnight and was probably promoted by effects from the major geomagnetic storm of the past several days.
It was reported to have been lightly felt with intensity up to V in Kamchatka, Russia at Vilyuchinsk.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate intensity in Vilyuchinsk, Paratunka, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Kamchatka, Russia.
This event is the strongest in the region of Kamchatka since an M 7.8 on September 18, 2025
more than four months ago. That event seemed to end the major series
in Kamchatka that began in late July, 2025.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (51.4 degrees) from Honshu, Japan
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 02:35:34 51.8N 158.6E MB=4.4 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 22JAN2026 12:42:35 51.9N 158.5E Mw=6.2 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 22JAN2026 13:58:52 51.9N 158.7E mb=4.4 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
A highly unusual moderate earthquake of M 4.7 hit northeastern Utah today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Utah at Mantua; III in Coalville, Provo, Hanksville, Salt Lake City, Heber City, Peoa, Henefer, Hooper, Park City, Farmington, Lewiston, Mountain Home, Eden, Logan, Ogden, Kaysville, Roy, Smithfield and in Evanston, Wyoming, and in Fruita, Colorado. It was also felt in Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona.
EMSC reported a notable rumble accompanied the earthquake which was flet with
strong shaking in Utah at Silver summit, Mount Olympus, Woods Cross, Canyon Rim, Bountiful, Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Holladay, Cottonwood Heights, Bountiful, South Salt Lake, Murray, Layton and Midvale among others.
A foreshock of M 2.4 occurred two minutes befor the mainshock but was not reported felt.
The mainshock was followed by an aftershock of M 3.0 near Evanston, Wyoming. It was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity III in Salt Lake City, Kamas and II i Syracuse, Hyrum, Park City and in Evanston, Wyoming.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter since
at least 1990. Earthquakes about 200 km to the north occurred in September, 2017
with maximum magnitude M 5.3 on September 2, 2017. An M 4.7 also occurred about 200 km
to the southwest of today's epicenter on April 17, 2003. Today's event
is therefore a significant regional earthquake.
It is likely it was promoted by the strong geomagnetic storm of the last several
daysi as suggested in the previous issue of this summary:
"The current geomagnetic storm - the second strongest in at least 20 years
began to calm down today with Kp values reducing to Kp 4-5 as the day wore
on. Seismicity is generally dampened during strong geomagnetic storms
following the initial shock of the storm. This is thought to occur because
the randomness of the disturbance reduces telluric currents which can
trigger earthquakes. This appears to have occurred in the current situation.
In general, this is followed in the next day or two by a period in which
ionospheric ring currents strongly reform and in which moderate to strong
seismicity can be expected especially in areas which were at local solar
noon or midnight (western U.S) or noon (western Asia and eastern Europe)
at the time of commencement of the storm." (January 22, 20-26)
and
"In the current case, the storm began (according to GOES 18 and GOES 19 magnetometers
at 19:09 UT with a sudden negative shift in geomagnetic field strength and a major
decline in electron flux." (January 20, 2026)
Note that the longitude of this event in Utah at 110W is within minutes of
local solar noon - consistent with long-term triggering by the sudden commencement
of the geomagnetic storm.
Like earthquakes today in Iceland (M 4.5) and southern California this epicenter
is near the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 22JAN2026 14:49:20 40.9N 110.8W ML=4.6 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 14:47:30 40.9N 110.9W ML=2.4 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 14:54:16 40.9N 110.8W MD=2.0 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 18:22:17 40.9N 110.9W ML=3.0 EMSC UTAH
The storm triggered an immediate seismic reaction at the near solar noon area
of northern Nevada. An M 3.5 earthquake occurred near Empire, Nevada precisely
with the commencement of this storm at 19:09 UT. It was reported felt with
intensity II in Gardnerville, Nevada,
An M 4.1 was recorded in Chiapas, Mexico 7 minutes and 11 seconds after the
mainshock in Utah. This event at 29 degrees from Utah was consistent with
triggering by the PP- seismic wave which arrived in Chiapas at the time of
the M 4.0 there.
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Hokkaido and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 22JAN2026 14:56:31 15.3N 94.3W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Alaska Peninsula was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Alaska Peninsula in Chignik Lagoon.
This event may have been promoted by a moderately strong solar flare the largest
of the day (C9.5 #1450) which began near the time of this earthquake. NEIC
give parameters for this flare as:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1450 1943 1954 2000 C9.5 (January 22, 2026) 6.5E-03
Mendoza, Argentina M 4.4 19:41 UT
Southern Alaska M 4.2 19:39 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 19:52 UT
Central Mid-Atlantic M 4.7 19:59 UT
O: 22JAN2026 21:22:30 54.1N 159.7W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 23JAN2026 03:49:31 54.1N 159.7W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 22JAN2026 19:38:49 54.4N 159.9W MW=5.2 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
An M 4.4 also occurred today off the coast of northern California. This event
occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour. The epicenter occurred
at the same location as an M 4.4 off northern California of January 19, 2026.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in California at Arcata, II in McKinleyville and Alamdea and lesser shaking in Trinidad, Fortuna, Rio Dell and Crescent City.
At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"A moderate earthquake which was probably promoted by SFE
from this flare occurred off the coast of Northern California with M 4.2.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Northern California
at Loleta, Carlotta and Eureka and II in Ferndale, Brookings, Fortuna, Hydesville and in O'Brien, Oregon.
This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of northern California
since an M 4.5 on July 29, 2025 near this epicenter and is therefore a
significant regional earthquake. The association with the X1.9 solar flare
is most likely not a coincidence. The M 4.5 on July 29 was closely connected to the
M 8.7 in Kamchatka of the same day but occurred several minutes before that
event. It was summarized in this report at the time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today off the coast of northern California.
This event occurred about 6 minutes prior to the M 8.8 in Kamchatka. It may
be related to slow slippage in Kamchatka prior to the mainshock or to an
unidentified source triggering both.
It was widely felt with intensity II in northern California in Saratoga, Occidental, Eureka, McKinleyville, Arcata, Bayside, Ferndale.
The last earthquake off the coast of California with magnitude of M>4.5 was an M 5.3
on December 15, 2024, an aftershock of the M 7.0 there on December 5, 2024, so
the coincidental timing with the M 8.8 in Kamchatka could not be such
a coincidence after all. The distance between Northern California epicenter
and Kamchatka is 51 degrees (node 7). Travel time for a p-phase between
these two epicenter is about 9 minutes so no seismic data would have traversed
this distance in the 6.5 minutes between these two earthquakes." (July 29, 2025)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic pole and at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources." (January 19, 2026)
Today's epicenter is also at the seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 22JAN2026 07:28:29 40.6N 125.3W MB=4.4 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 22JAN2026 07:28:29 40.6N 125.3W MW=4.3 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 01:53:10 40.7N 125.1W MD=2.7 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Louisiana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Louisiana in Kountze, Texas.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Nicaragua was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Nicaragua in Managua.
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by energy associated with that source.
O: 22JAN2026 11:13:43 11.9N 86.8W ML=4.1 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NICARAGUA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Iceland was not felt the area of the epicenter.
O: 22JAN2026 10:28:23 64.7N 17.4W MB=4.5 EMSC ICELAND
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao and like the events in Southern
California today at the sixth node from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
NEIC reported aftershocks in the area east of Los Angeles, California continued to be felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Borrego Springs, Thermal, San Diego, Rancho Mirage and Coachella.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 22JAN2026 08:10:25 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 22JAN2026 18:45:25 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 01:03:49 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 01:08:26 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Eastern Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Eastern Los Angeles, California in Riverside.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 03:33:43 34.1N 117.5W ML=2.4 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE LUANA (17S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC LUANA 2026-01-23 00:00 UT 16.6S 122.2E 70 kts North of western Australia
Tropical cyclone Luana (17S) continued today with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in northern Australia and central Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 58W is in the Leeward and Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 22, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1380 1033 1049 1100 C8.3 (January 22, 2026) 8.5E-03
Iceland M 4.5 10:28 UT
1390 1218 1223 1230 C2.3 (January 22, 2026) 1.7E-03
Kamchatka M 6.2 12:42 UT
1410 1702 1707 1715 C4.3 (January 22, 2026) 2.9E-03
Queen Charlotte Is. M 3.4 17:01 UT
1420 1733 1745 1750 C2.6 (January 22, 2026) 2.5E-03
1440 1934 1941 1943 C1.9 (January 22, 2026) 1.8E-03
1450 1943 1954 2000 C9.5 (January 22, 2026) 6.5E-03
Mendoza, Argentina M 4.4 19:41 UT
Southern Alaska M 4.2 19:39 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 19:52 UT
Central Mid-Atlantic M 4.7 19:59 UT
1470 2116 2122 2126 C2.3 (January 22, 2026) 1.5E-03
1480 2229 2234 2239 C1.9 (January 22, 2026) 1.2E-03
1490 2345 2352 2356 C2.6 (January 22, 2026) 1.6E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 23-24 unsettled January 25. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 19, high: 16, mid-latitude: 15, time of max AP: 22:00 UT; Max AP: 4.3; Sunspot Number: 206; Radio Flux: 194
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 22, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
UPDATE:
A strong M 6.2 occurred in Kamchatka on January 22, 2026. It occurred near
local solar midnight and was probably promoted by effects from the major geomagnetic storm of the past several days.
This event is the strongest in the region of Kamchatka since an M 7.8 on September 18, 2025
more than four months ago. That event seemed to end the major series
in Kamchatka that began in late July, 2025.
O: 22JAN2026 12:42:35 51.9N 158.5E MW=6.2 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
Significant earthquakes today in the western U.S. - in the Alaska Peninsula (M 5.2-5.5) and
in northern Utah near the Wyoming border (M 4.7) also followed the end of
the geomagnetic storm. More on these events in the next summary.
O: 22JAN2026 14:49:21 40.9N 110.9W MW=4.7 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 19:38:50 54.3N 160.0W MW=5.2 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
and much of the western U.S. was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promote that event. The timing at local solar midnight of this flare suggest
strong triggering in likely from the Rocky Mountains to the west coast
of the U.S. in the next several days. SWPC gave the following parameters
for this flare:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.3 08:30 UT
The current geomagnetic storm - the second strongest in at least 20 years
began to calm down today with Kp values reducing to Kp 4-5 as the day wore
on. Seismicity is generally dampened during strong geomagnetic storms
following the initial shock of the storm. This is thought to occur because
the randomness of the disturbance reduces telluric currents which can
trigger earthquakes. This appears to have occurred in the current situation.
In general, this is followed in the next day or two by a period in which
ionospheric ring currents strongly reform and in which moderate to strong
seismicity can be expected especially in areas which were at local solar
noon or midnight (western U.S) or noon (western Asia and eastern Europe)
at the time of commencement of the storm. This is consistent with the
forecast for this time first published in this summary on January 4, 2026 as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands." (January 4, 2026)
with a follow-up on January 15 as:
" ... observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date (January 22)." (January 15-20, 2026)
and in the previous summary as:
"An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promoted that event." (January 20-21, 2026)
Light aftershocks continued today in the swarm east of Los Angeles, California
Many of these were lightly felt with intensity III in Palm Springs, Pala and Murrieta, California.
The strongest was an M 4.3-4.4 which occurred near local solar midnight.
This was reported in the previous issue of this summary as:
"Earthquakes continued today in the swarm east of Los Angeles. The strongest
of these was an M 4.3 which was widely felt near local solar midnight. NEIC
reported it was felt with intensity IV in Thousand Palms, Indian Wells, San Clemente, Coachella, Indio; III in Yorba Linda, Thermal, Big Bear City, Redlands Pala, Crestline, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, Menifee, Temecula, Winchester, La Quinta, Moreno Valley, El Cajon, Morongo Valley, Rancho Santa Margarita, Corona, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, among others.
EMSC reported tis event with M 4.4 was felt with a loud rumble in Southern California at
Indio, Bermuda Dunes, Indian Wells, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Joshua Tree among others.
This may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 1230 (M3.4) which peaked
While this epicenter was within minutes of local solar midnight.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.4 08:30 UT
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from that source." (January 21, 2026)
Today's activity is also near the sixth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21JAN2026 08:30:06 33.9N 116.2W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 22JAN2026 05:00:05 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 08:34:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 09:08:18 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 12:17:17 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 13:31:15 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 18:16:57 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 19:49:16 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 21:49:29 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 22:19:28 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
An M 4.4 also occurred today off the coast of northern California. This event
occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour. The epicenter occurred
at the same location as an M 4.4 off northern California of January 19, 2026.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in California at Arcata, II in McKinleyville and Alamdea and lesser shaking in Trinidad, Fortuna, Rio Dell and Crescent City.
At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"A moderate earthquake which was probably promoted by SFE
from this flare occurred off the coast of Northern California with M 4.2.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Northern California
at Loleta, Carlotta and Eureka and II in Ferndale, Brookings, Fortuna, Hydesville and in O'Brien, Oregon.
This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of northern California
since an M 4.5 on July 29, 2025 near this epicenter and is therefore a
significant regional earthquake. The association with the X1.9 solar flare
is most likely not a coincidence. The M 4.5 on July 29 was closely connected to the
M 8.7 in Kamchatka of the same day but occurred several minutes before that
event. It was summarized in this report at the time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today off the coast of northern California.
This event occurred about 6 minutes prior to the M 8.8 in Kamchatka. It may
be related to slow slippage in Kamchatka prior to the mainshock or to an
unidentified source triggering both.
It was widely felt with intensity II in northern California in Saratoga, Occidental, Eureka, McKinleyville, Arcata, Bayside, Ferndale.
The last earthquake off the coast of California with magnitude of M>4.5 was an M 5.3
on December 15, 2024, an aftershock of the M 7.0 there on December 5, 2024, so
the coincidental timing with the M 8.8 in Kamchatka could not be such
a coincidence after all. The distance between Northern California epicenter
and Kamchatka is 51 degrees (node 7). Travel time for a p-phase between
these two epicenter is about 9 minutes so no seismic data would have traversed
this distance in the 6.5 minutes between these two earthquakes." (July 29, 2025)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic pole and at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources." (January 19, 2026)
Today's epicenter is also at the seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 22JAN2026 07:28:29 40.6N 125.3W MB=4.4 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Louisiana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Louisiana in Kountze, Texas.
This epicenter is at the sixth node from the North geomagnetic Pole; the fifth node
from Kamchatka and the fourth node from Hokkaido, Japan.
O: 22JAN2026 06:46:55 32.1N 93.3W ML=2.6 EMSC LOUISIANA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in Puget Sound, Washington was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Puget Sound, Washington with III in Renton, Tacoma, Federal Way, Kent and II in Carnation, Issaquah, and Monroe.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Maple Heights and Lake Desire, Washington.
O: 22JAN2026 04:22:05 47.6N 122.0W ML=2.9 EMSC PUGET SOUND REGION, WASHINGTON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Guam was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guam with IV in Talofofo; III in Merizo, Santa Rita, Barrigada, Tamuning, Hagatna, Yigo, Mangilao, Dededo.
EMSC reported this earthquake was mild in Hagatna Village and Santa Rita Village, Guam with an earthquake noise.
This event is at the fifth node from Yukon, Canada and from the
North Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by constructive energy
interference from those two sources.
O: 22JAN2026 03:53:14 13.3N 145.4E MB=4.9 EMSC GUAM REGION
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.1 in the Volcano Islands, Japan.
It was not reported felt in this region. This event occurred near local solar
midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
The last earthquake in within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.1
occurred as an M 6.1 on February 12, 2024 but the last of larger magnitude
in this region was an M 6.3 on August 16, 2018. At the time this summary noted:
"A pair of strong earthquakes in the Volcano Islands of M 6.0 and 6.3-6.4 today were
likely triggered by the passage of Typhoon Soulik over the epicenter today. Typhoon Soulik has winds up to 80 kts.
This storm is expected to pass to the northwest over the next several days reaching Kyushu, Japan around
August 21. This is a classic example of weather-related
seismic triggering. Several strong storms have battered the Volcano Islands
in recent days, the last was TS Leepi which passed over these epicenters
August 12." (August 16, 2018)
This epicenter is at the sixth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and was
probably promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21JAN2026 16:37:46 23.2N 142.6E MW=6.1 EMSC VOLCANO ISLANDS, JAPAN REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Guerrero, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guerrero, Mexico with I-II in Tlalnepantla and Mexico City.
O: 21JAN2026 16:02:26 18.5N 101.0W MB=4.7 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 north of San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of north of San Francisco, California with II in Santa Rosa, Vallejo, San Rafael and Pleasanton.
O: 22JAN2026 00:46:37 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 21JAN2026 14:03:50 38.4N 122.6W MD=2.7 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Moro Gulf, Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Moro Gulf, Mindanao, Philippines with II in Midsayap.
O: 21JAN2026 12:59:22 6.6N 123.9E MB=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 21JAN2026 08:49:02 6.4N 123.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 11:55:58 6.4N 123.9E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Homer, II in Anchor Point and Eagle River.
O: 21JAN2026 09:31:02 59.5N 150.8W ML=3.7 EMSC KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
O: 21JAN2026 13:52:32 59.6N 150.2W ML=3.4 EMSC KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
GeoNet reported the following parameters for an earthquake south of South Island today:
O: 21JAN2026 06:47:22 48.4S 165.7E MB=4.4 GEONET Felt weakly by 2 and lightly by 0 and with severe intensity by 0 respondents in Southern South Island and in Snares Island, New Zealand.
O: 21JAN2026 06:47:22 48.4S 165.7E ML=4.4 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 4.5, M 4.0, M 4.2, M 4.0, M 4.6 in Western Turkey were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of western Turkey at Gordes, Akhisar, Salihli, Turgutlu, Usak, Balikesir, Manisa, Bergama, Gorukle, Tire, Menemen, Osmangazi, Buca, Bursa, Torbali, Pendik, Bigadic, and Sultanbeyli among others.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and at the fourth node from Mindananao and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 21JAN2026 15:11:50 39.1N 28.3E MB=4.5 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 20:11:37 39.1N 28.3E ML=4.2 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 23:24:58 39.1N 28.3E ML=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 20:28:56 39.2N 28.3E mb=4.5 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 23:12:53 39.2N 28.3E ML=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Poland was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Poland in Lubin, Polkowice, Rudna, Olesnica.
O: 21JAN2026 09:16:36 51.4N 16.2E ML=3.5 EMSC POLAND
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE 16P
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 16P 2026-01-22 00:00 UT 25.2S 172.4E 50 kts Fiji/Loyalty Islands
Tropical cyclone 16P continued today South of Vanuatu near the Fiji and Loyalty Islands with winds up to 50 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in Fiji and Loyalty Islands is possible at this time. The antipode at 25N 8W is off the coast of northern Africa in the Northern Mid-Atlantic and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the area north of Australia and near Sumbawa, Indonesia. This system is currently located at 11S 119E where seismicity may be enhanced at this time. The antipode at 11N 61W is north of Venezuela near the Trinidad and Tobago Islands which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 21, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1190 0005 0009 0012 C2.1 (January 21, 2026) 8.9E-04
Southern Texas M 2.0 00:05 UT
Mindanao M 4.0 00:14 UT
Owen Fracture Zone M 5.0 00:27 UT
1200 0115 0135 0158 M1.1 (January 21, 2026) 2.2E-02
Moro Gulf M 4.8 01:26 UT M 5.4 01:33 UT
Utah M 2,3 01:28 UT
1210 0443 0448 0450 C2.0 (January 21, 2026) 9.5E-04
South Sandwich Is. M 5.2 04:54 UT
1220 0502 0513 0523 C5.1 (January 21, 2026) 4.5E-03
Moro Gulf M 4.7 05:14 UT
Southern Texas M 2.3 05:20 UT
Sumatra M 3.9 05:18 UT
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.3 08:30 UT
1240 1149 1157 1208 C2.2 (January 21, 2026) 2.6E-03
Portland, Oregon M 2.0 11:49 UT
1250 1209 1212 1220 C3.6 (January 21, 2026) 2.3E-03
1290 1624 1633 1640 C2.3 (January 21, 2026) 2.1E-03
Volcano Is. M 6.2 16:37 UT
1310 1826 1834 1839 C7.0 (January 21, 2026) 6.0E-03
Baja California M 4.1 18:39 UT
1320 1905 1910 1915 C3.2 (January 21, 2026) 2.0E-03
1330 1929 1938 1945 C8.6 (January 21, 2026) 6.0E-03
Greenland Sea M 3.6 19:36 UT
1340 1947 1955 2002 C7.6 (January 21, 2026) 6.5E-03
Southern California M 2.1 19:49 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 19:55 UT
1360 2047 2052 2058 C3.2 (January 21, 2026) 2.1E-03
Michoacan M 3.7 20:57 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 22 active January 23 unsettled January 24. Solar M-flare chance: 60% X-class: 15% proton storm: 45%
AP Indicies: global: 73, high: 95, mid-latitude: 45, time of max AP: 04:00 UT; Max AP: 8 ; Sunspot Number: 166; Radio Flux: 188
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 21, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A new determination of the position of the North Geomagnetic Pole has been released by
the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) and the British Geological Survey (BGS).
This summary will use the new position at 86.38N 164.06E from this point on
replacing the previous model pole at 85.7N 139.3E in distance calculations.
The change is only slight moving the pole by about 35 km per year at current
pole migration velocities. The current pole is near the north rotational pole
north of Kamchatka, Russia. In some models the position of the geomagnetic
pole affects locations of geomagnetically triggered earthquakes and this
will revise these expectations as published in this summary.
An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promote that event.
The Planetary AP reached 143 today with high latitude at 174 and middle latitude at 91.
Similar sized storms occurred on October 29, 2003 (AP 189); July 27, 2004 (AP 162); November 8-10, 2004 (AP 189, 120, 181);
and May 11, 2024 (AP 273). The last geomagnetic storm approaching the
intensity of today's occurred on November 12, 2025 (AP 127).
Major earthquakes followed these storms on November 17, 2003 (M 7.8 Rat Islands); Sumatra (M 9.0+ December 26, 2004 and M 8.0 South of New Zealand December 23, 2024).
When the storm of May, 2024 occurred this summary noted:
"A severe geomagnetic storm occurred today with high latitude AP 146 and Planetary
AP 118. KP index as at its highest possible value of 9 around May 10 at 20:00 through
May 11 at 04:00 UT. This appears to be the most disturbed the earth's geomagnetic field
has been in the current solar cycle. It also includes a proton stor which together
should reduce sort-term seismicity but enhance seismicity around May 14-20.
It is likely that a major earthquake will occur in the next 10 days most
likely in the regions near the geomagnetic equator and/or at high auroral
latitudes. Effects with the X5.4 flare today are most likely in the Kurils,
Kamchatka, western Alaska and the Tonga/Vanuatu/Fiji/New Zealand areas
of the South Pacific. The last time a severe storm hit the geomagnetic
field was March 24, 2024 (high latitude AP 100, Planetary AP 64) when this summary noted:
"The last time high latitude AP was at 100 or greater was on November 4, 2021 when it reached 131. Planetary AP was 69 on that date.
"The last time high latitude AP exceeded 120 was on December 15, 2006 when it hit AP 120 with global AP at 104.
The earthquake in 2006 was followed several days later by an M 7.0 in Taiwan. The last time the AP disturbance at high latitudes exceeded today's index of 131 was on September 11-12 (AP 131 and 136).
The storm in September, 2005 was accompanied by an M 7.7 in New Ireland and an M 6.4 in the Nias region of Indonesia.
This history suggests that a major earthquake is likely in the next several
days. In general, strong geomagnetic storms see major earthquakes at the time
of the storm's commencement or about 4-5 days later as the ionospheric ring
currents at high latitude and about 10 degrees from the geomagnetic equator
reemerge after the disturbance. This often includes a strong to major
earthquake. At this time such an event appears most likely near the geomagnetic
equator or at high latitudes ... (November 5, 2021, March 25, 2024, May 11, 2024)
and
"As the geomagnetic storm wound down today, the expected resurgence of global
seismicity began. This started with an M 6.4 off the coast of Guatemala and Chiapas,
Mexico. Then near local solar noon an earthquake of M 4.9-5.0 occurred in Baja
California. This was accompanied by a number of foreshocks and moderate
aftershocks. This was followed by an M 5.9 in the Kermadec Islands, New
Zealand. Each of these had been expected as a consequence of recent
X-class solar flares." (May 13, 2024)
Earthquakes continued today in the swarm east of Los Angeles. The strongest
of these was an M 4.3 which was widely felt near local solar midnight. NEIC
reported it was felt with intensity IV in Thousand Palms, Indian Wells, San Clemente, Coachella, Indio; III in Yorba Linda, Thermal, Big Bear City, Redlands Pala, Crestline, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, Menifee, Temecula, Winchester, La Quinta, Moreno Valley, El Cajon, Morongo Valley, Rancho Santa Margarita, Corona, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, among others.
EMSC reported tis event with M 4.4 was felt with a loud rumble in Southern California at
Indio, Bermuda Dunes, Indian Wells, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Joshua Tree among others.
This may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 1230 (M3.4) which peaked
While this epicenter was within minutes of local solar midnight.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.4 08:30 UT
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21JAN2026 08:30:06 33.9N 116.2W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 06:15:35 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:02:00 33.9N 116.1W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:18:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:49:34 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 08:20:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 11:05:58 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 14:34:58 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 16:17:23 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 18:48:10 33.9N 116.2W Mw=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 19:22:38 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 19:32:54 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 20:10:41 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 23:24:57 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 23:52:24 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 00:24:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 04:01:06 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7-2.8 in South Carolina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of South Carolina with III in Elgin, Columbia, Rembert, Hoopkins, Lugoff, Lexington, Cassatt, Irmo, Blythewood, Camden and in North Carolina at Charlotte. It was felt with light intensity as far as Florida,
EMSC reported loud rumblings in South Carolina at Elgin, Blythewood, Hopkins, Forest Acres.
The last earthquake with M>=2.7 in South Carolina within about 200 km of this epicenter
was recorded by NEIC as an M 3.0 and M 2.9 on August 23, 2025. The last within
about 150 km was an M 2.7 on March 9, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"A M 2.8 earthquake was lightly felt in South Carolina today.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 2.8 in South Carolina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of South Carolina in Elgin.
This continues a series in the area which continued throughout much of the year 2023. It is the
strongest earthquake in this area in more than a year - since an M 2.9 on February 18, 2023.
This series began in December, 2021 with an M 3.6. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
"A series of earthquakes also occurred today in South Carolina. The largest of these was an M 3.3-3.6 (EMSC).
NEIC reported the mainshock at M 3.3 was felt with intensity IV in South Carolina
with intensity IV in Lugoff and Elgin and III in Columbia, Camden, Rembert, Ridgeway, Blythewood.
An aftershock of M 2.5 was felt in South Carolina at Lugoff, Elgin, Columbia, Camden, Ridgeway, Blythewood, and other areas of South Carolina.
The only earthquake of M>3.6 in South Carolina in the past 10 years was an M 4.1
on February 15, 2014 and prior to that an M 4.4 on November 11, 2002 and August 21, 1992
also with M 4.4." (December 28, 2021, March 9, 2024)
Triggering of today's event by the geomagnetic storm which was at its height
when the earthquake occurred is possible.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the Noth Geomagnetic Pole and
at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 11:33:16 34.2N 80.7W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTH CAROLINA
A series of moderate earthquake today occurred in the Owen Fracture Zone south of Yemen today.
These event of M 5.3, 4.6, 5.0 were not reported felt in this epicentral area.
They may have been promoted by the geomagnetic storm which was maximized
in the time period that these earthquakes occurred.
These epicenters are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka; the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Mindanao and 104 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted byenergy from those sources.
O: 21JAN2026 00:27:05 14.2N 53.8E MB=5.0 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
O: 20JAN2026 22:19:26 14.3N 53.9E mb=4.6 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
O: 21JAN2026 00:58:09 14.3N 53.8E mb=4.6 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
O: 21JAN2026 01:05:49 14.3N 53.8E Mw=5.3 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Argentina in Cordoba.
EMSC reported it was felt strongly in Argentina at Rio Ceballos, Cordoba.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and at 102 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 21JAN2026 07:02:50 23.9S 66.7W MB=4.5 EMSC JUJUY, ARGENTINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Tanzania may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tanzania near Mbumi.
This epicenter is located at 100-105 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Honshu, Japan and the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and Mindanao
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 17:11:38 8.3S 39.3E MW=5.4 EMSC TANZANIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii with II in Mountain View, Waikoloa and Honomu.
O: 20JAN2026 15:30:25 19.2N 155.4W ML=3.3 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Oaxaca, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oaxaca, Mexico with intensity in Xadani, III in Hualtulco, Veinte de Noviembre, Chipas and in Mtxico City area at Tlalnepantla, Mexico City and Tepotzotlan.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Honshu, Japan and the third node (120 degrees) from
the South Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by energy from those
sourcs.
O: 20JAN2026 11:30:14 15.9N 95.5W MW=5.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tonga in American Samoa.
This epicenter is at 102-103 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and the sixth node (60 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic pole
and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by enery from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 08:18:19 15.7S 173.6W MB=4.6 EMSC TONGA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Gulf of Honduras was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Gulf of Honduras at San Pedro Sula.
O: 20JAN2026 22:33:22 15.8N 88.1W ML=4.2 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Mindanao at Davao.
These epicenters are located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 10:29:54 6.4N 123.8E MB=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 21JAN2026 01:26:05 6.4N 123.8E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 05:14:27 6.4N 123.9E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 23:25:17 6.5N 123.8E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 23:30:59 6.5N 123.9E mb=4.5 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 01:33:06 6.5N 123.8E Mw=5.4 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 00:38:55 6.6N 123.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Switzerland was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Switzerland at Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Chalais, Liddes, Sierre and in Lech, Austria and in Italy at Breuil-Cervinia, Valtournenche, Antagnod, Gressoney-La-Trinite, Sain-Vincent, Chatillon,
Small tremors are common in Switzerland but events of M>=3.4 are not. The last
earthquakes in Switzerland within about 100 km of today's M 3.4 with equal
or larger magnitude were an M 4.2 on January 12, 2026 and an M 4.5 on March 12, 2022. At the time this summary
noted it as:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.5 was widely felt in the French Alps today. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in France in the Rhone-Alpes at Pallud, Cesarches, Tournon, and II-III in Faverges, Plancherine, Queige, Saint-Jorioz, La Balme-de-Thuy, Annecy and Villaz.
A lightly felt aftershock of M 3.8 also occurred about 18 minutes after the mainshock
Several light foreshocks of M 2.4 and 2.1 occurred prior to the mainshock beginning
atou three hours earlier. The last earthquake of M>=4.4 occurred as an M 4.4
on October 24, 2016, but the last of larger magnitude was an M 4.7-4.8 on April 7, 2014." (March 12, 2022)
This epicenter is located at 103 degrees from Mindanao and at 146 degrees from the
South Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 20:21:46 46.0N 7.7E MW=3.4 EMSC SWITZERLAND
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE 16P
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 16P 2026-01-21 00:00 UT 21.0S 168.4E 50 kts Loyalty Islands
Tropical cyclone 16P formed today South of Vanuatu near the Loyalty Islands with winds up to 50 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the southern Vanuatu and Loyalty Islands is possible at this time. The antipode at 22N 15W is off the coast of northern Africa in the Southern Mid-Atlantic and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to Los Angeles, California at 34N 118-119W around January 21-22, 2026 with winds up to 70 kts where it will dissiapate. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An 4.9 east of Los Angeles on January 19 at 34N 116W may have been promoted by antipodal effects of TC Dudzai. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 20, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.3 08:30 UT
1020 0431 0438 0446 C2.0 (January 20, 2026) 1.8E-03
Loyalty Is. M 5.3 04:39 UT
Mindanao M 4.1 03:38 UT
1030 0528 0532 0534 C2.1 (January 20, 2026) 8.8E-04
Tonga M 5.1 05:39 UT
Southern California M 2.8 05:31 UT
1040 0607 0614 0618 C2.0 (January 20, 2026) 1.3E-03
Ascension Is. M 5.3 06:04 UT
1050 0624 0631 0636 C2.7 (January 20, 2026) 1.7E-03
Coast No. California M 2.7 06:25 UT
Mediterranean M 4.4 06:38 U
Coast Oregon M 3.4 06:30 UT
1060 0725 0733 0737 C4.4 (January 20, 2026) 2.4E-03
New Guinea M 5.9 07:22 UT
Illinois M 3.807:27 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 07:30 UT
Central Peru M 4.0 07:37 UT
Southern Texas M 2.0 07:41 UT
1110 0809 0816 0820 C4.0 (January 20, 2026) 2.0E-03
Santa Cruz Is. M 4.9 08:18 UT
Tonga M 4.6 08:18 UT
Southern Califonia M 3.8 08:20 UT
1140 1249 1322 1346 C4.2 (January 20, 2026) 1.1E-02
Loyalty Is. M 5.0 13:42 UT
1160 1532 1606 1709 C2.4 (January 20, 2026) 1.1E-02
Tajikistan M 4.3 15:46 UT
Eastern Tennessee M 2.0 16:23 UT
Nias, Indonesia M 4.4 16:25 UT
Tanzania M 5.4 17:11 UT
Rat Islands, M 3.7 17:12 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: severe storms January 21 minor storms January 22 active January 23. Solar M-flare chance: 60% X-class: 20% proton storm: 60%
AP Indicies: global: 143, high: 174, mid-latitude: 91, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 9.7; Sunspot Number: 172; Radio Flux: 178
An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promoted that event.
The Planetary AP reached 143 today with high latitude at 174 and middle latitude at 91.
Similar sized storms occurred on October 29, 2003 (AP 189); July 27, 2004 (AP 162); November 8-10, 2004 (AP 189, 120, 181);
and May 11, 2024 (AP 273). The last geomagnetic storm approaching the
intensity of today's occurred on November 12, 2025 (AP 127).
Major earthquakes followed these storms on November 17, 2003 (M 7.8 Rat Islands); Sumatra (M 9.0+ December 26, 2004 and M 8.0 South of New Zealand December 23, 2024).
When the storm of May, 2024 occurred this summary noted:
"A severe geomagnetic storm occurred today with high latitude AP 146 and Planetary
AP 118. KP index as at its highest possible value of 9 around May 10 at 20:00 through
May 11 at 04:00 UT. This appears to be the most disturbed the earth's geomagnetic field
has been in the current solar cycle. It also includes a proton stor which together
should reduce sort-term seismicity but enhance seismicity around May 14-20.
It is likely that a major earthquake will occur in the next 10 days most
likely in the regions near the geomagnetic equator and/or at high auroral
latitudes. Effects with the X5.4 flare today are most likely in the Kurils,
Kamchatka, western Alaska and the Tonga/Vanuatu/Fiji/New Zealand areas
of the South Pacific. The last time a severe storm hit the geomagnetic
field was March 24, 2024 (high latitude AP 100, Planetary AP 64) when this summary noted:
"The last time high latitude AP was at 100 or greater was on November 4, 2021 when it reached 131. Planetary AP was 69 on that date.
"The last time high latitude AP exceeded 120 was on December 15, 2006 when it hit AP 120 with global AP at 104.
The earthquake in 2006 was followed several days later by an M 7.0 in Taiwan. The last time the AP disturbance at high latitudes exceeded today's index of 131 was on September 11-12 (AP 131 and 136).
The storm in September, 2005 was accompanied by an M 7.7 in New Ireland and an M 6.4 in the Nias region of Indonesia.
This history suggests that a major earthquake is likely in the next several
days. In general, strong geomagnetic storms see major earthquakes at the time
of the storm's commencement or about 4-5 days later as the ionospheric ring
currents at high latitude and about 10 degrees from the geomagnetic equator
reemerge after the disturbance. This often includes a strong to major
earthquake. At this time such an event appears most likely near the geomagnetic
equator or at high latitudes ... (November 5, 2021, March 25, 2024, May 11, 2024)
and
"As the geomagnetic storm wound down today, the expected resurgence of global
seismicity began. This started with an M 6.4 off the coast of Guatemala and Chiapas,
Mexico. Then near local solar noon an earthquake of M 4.9-5.0 occurred in Baja
California. This was accompanied by a number of foreshocks and moderate
aftershocks. This was followed by an M 5.9 in the Kermadec Islands, New
Zealand. Each of these had been expected as a consequence of recent
X-class solar flares." (May 13, 2024)
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 20, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A major geomagnetic storm hit the earth late on UT day January 19. This is probably
caused by the CME from the X1.9 solar flare which occurred late on January 18
as reported in the previous issue of this summary. Today's storm reached global
Kp of 8 after a sudden commencement at 19:09 UT and proceeded to Kp of 9
in the following two hours. The last geomagnetic storm with planetary Kp 8 or greater
occurred on November 12, 2025 when Kp 8.67 was recorded early in the day. Kp of 9
was not reached during that storm. The last storm in which global Kp reached 9
was the storm of May 10-11, 2024. This is a G4-G5 geomagnetic storm which can
induce intense curents in the magnetosphere and heating of the ionosphere. They
can also trigger seismic activity especially in longitudes which are sub-solar and antisolar
at the time of the commencement of the storm.
In the current case, the storm began (according to GOES 18 and GOES 19 magnetometers
at 19:09 UT with a sudden negative shift in geomagnetic field strength and a major
decline in electron flux.
A second major change occurred at 21:20 UT when the field reversed and a sharp
rise in geomagnetic field strength occurred. This coincided with a major decline in
proton Flux at GOES altitudes (also at 21:20 UT). But the strom in continuing.
The storm triggered an immediate seismic reaction at the near solar noon area
of northern Nevada. An M 3.5 earthquake occurred near Empire, Nevada precisely
with the commencement of this storm at 19:09 UT. It was reported felt with
intensity II in Gardnerville, Nevada,
O: 19JAN2026 19:09:02 40.5N 119.6W ML=3.5 NEIC NEVADA
O: 19JAN2026 15:35:22 40.6N 119.6W MW=3.8 EMSC NEVADA
O: 19JAN2026 19:09:01 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.2 EMSC NEVADA
O: 20JAN2026 05:46:19 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.4 EMSC NEVADA
A second earthquake occurred later in the area of the western Andreanof Islands
with M 5.0 near local solar noon. This epicenter was near noon when the geomagnetic
storm was at maximum.
This epicenter is located at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole; the 10th node (36 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic pole and at the sevent
node from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 00:32:07 51.2N 178.4W ML=5.0 NEIC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIANS IS. ALASKA
O: 20JAN2026 00:32:06 51.2N 178.4W MB=4.3 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
O: 19JAN2026 14:08:02 51.3N 177.0W ML=3.7 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS.
The areas which were directly at local solar noon at the height of the initial
geomagnetic storm included California. This summary has warned that a moderate
earthquake was likely in this area due to the new moon stresses and the effect
of the X2.2 solar flare yesterday (January 18) and had specified one of these
regions in the area of southern California near Los Angeles as follows:
"Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the west and south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 118W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 34.5N 118-119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 65 kts. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An M 3.5 north of Los Angeles on January 18 at 35N 118W may suggest a possible site of an enhanced earthquake at that time. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date." (January 16-19, 2026)
So frequent readers of this summary should not be surprised that today's geomagnetic
storm appears to have brought this event a day earlier than expected. An M 4.9
occurred in Southern California today with the following parameters:
O: 20JAN2026 01:56:13 33.9N 116.2W ML=4.9 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported that nearly 3000 residents of southern California provided felt
data to USGS on this earthquake. It was reported with intensity V east of Los
Angeles in Indio and Palm Desert, California with IV in Winchester, Indian Wells,
San Bernardino, Escondido, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Palm Springs, and III in Laguna Hills, Placentia, Riverside, Fountain Valley, Ladera Ranch, Twentynine Palms, Laguna Niguel, Santa Ana, Desert Hot Springs, Vista, San Diego, Mohave Valley, Arizona and as far to the west as San Diego, Northridge, Los Angeles.
A series of light aftershocks is continuing at this writing.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter with M>4.9 was
recorded on July 7, 2010 about 75 km southwest of today's epicenter. At the time
this summary noted:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.4-5.6 hit southern California today.
...
This earthquake was felt widely throughout southern California and Arizona.
Maximum intensity of VI was reported near the epicenter at Mountain Center,
Ocotillo, and Ranchita and within about 20 km of the epicenter. Intensity V was reported from Warner Springs,
Los Angeles, Coachella, La Quinta, Mecca, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Thermal,
Aguanpa, Anza, San Jacinto, and in general within about 40 km of the epicenter.
Most of the remainder of Southern California reported intensity II-IV for
this event. The earthquake was also felt in Baja California with intensity
IV in Tijuana and Tecate and lesser intensities within about 150 km of the
epicenter. Maximum intensity in Nevada occurred at Las Vegas with IV and
in Arizona it was felt within about 300 km of the epicenter with intensity
II-III.
The quake caused at least one rock slide and left people trapped in
elevators but no injuries were reported and no significant
damage occurred to buildings or roads in the area. Items fell from
shelves and some windows were broken and other minor damage was
reported. While it is not a classic aftershock of the Easter Day
Baja California earthquake it may reflect strain transfer from that
earthquake. The rock slide occurred near a tram in Palm Springs and
damaged several cars on the highway. The people in the elevators were
trapped near Rancho Mirage for about 40 minutes." (July 1, 2010)
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Southern California
with M>=4.9 occurred on April 14, 2025 with M 5.2.
This epicenter is located near the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and
the North Geomagnetic pole and may have been promoted by constructive
energy interference from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 01:56:16 33.8N 116.2W MW=4.9 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 01:57:49 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 01:59:04 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.9 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:00:24 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:06:45 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:27:26 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:37:09 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:50:56 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 04:57:26 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 05:01:45 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 05:31:51 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 05:53:11 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 06:15:35 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:02:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:18:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:49:34 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
A highly unusual earthquake of M 3.5-3.8 shook the area near St. Louis, Missouri south of Chicago, Illinois
near local solar midnight on January 20, 2026. More than 1000 residents reported felt effects to USGS.
NEIC reported intensity V in Illinois at Morrisonville; IV in Coffeen, Carlinville, Nokomis, Roxana, Cowden, Palmer, Nebo, Tower Hill, Breese, Rushville, Butler, Collinsville, Chester, Marshall, Stonefort, Caseyville, Poseyville, Springfield among others. It was also felt with intensity III-IV in Missouri at Saint Louis, Florissant, Maryland Heights, Bixby, Eureka, Hillsboro, Paris, Berger, among others and in Indiana at Poseyville, Princeton, among others. It was also reported felt as far as Washington, Iowa with intensity II.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Illinois at Pana, Tayloville, Morisonville, Auburn, Southern View, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Murrayville, Jerseyville, White Hall, University City, Saint Charles, Missouria, Chesterfield, Crystal City and in the Chicago Loop.
It occurred during the peak of the geomagnetic storm when planetary Kp was 8
and was probably triggered by geomagnetic effects. The last earthquake within
about 150 km of this epicenter with M>=3.8, and the only such event in at
least 35 years was an M 3.9 on June 7, 2011. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong M-class solar flare occurred of class M2.2 began shortly after
06:00 UT on June 7. Global seismicity immediately lit up. The most widely
felt earthquakes in the hours following this flare occurred at longitudes
which were at solar noon (subsolar) or solar midnight (antisolar). These
are areas which are prime targets for solar flare effects (SFE). This
is the strongest solar flare since an X1.5 flare which occurred on March 9-10, 2011,
...
This flare may have triggered an M 3.9 earthquake
near Saint Louis, Missouri today as it occurred while that epicenter was
exactly anti-solar (local solar midnight), a prime time for solar flare
triggering.
...
We reported fully on the earthquake east of Saint Louis which occurred two
hours after the solar flare. This was the strongest earthquake in that
area in more than 40 years. The epicenter was within 10 minutes of exactly
local midnight at the time of the Solar Flare (the opposite longitude to
Xinjiang, China). It is likely that the M2.2 flare was the immediate trigger
for this earthquake." (June 7, 2011)
This epicenter in Illinois is at 145 degrees from TC Dudzai; 109 degrees from
Taiwan and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from northern Honshu, Japan and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 07:27:39 39.4N 89.2W MB=3.8 EMSC ILLINOIS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.9 in New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Guinea with III in Papua New Guinea in the highlands at Kainantu and Mount Hagen.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Papua New Guinea at Kainantu.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and Kamchatka
and at the eighth node from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 07:22:00 5.3S 146.0E MW=5.9 EMSC EASTERN NEW GUINEA REG., P.N.G
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.8 and M 3.9 in Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Nevada in Glenbrook.
An M 3.5 near Empire, Nevada also occurred today. This event coincided with
the beginning of the severe geomagnetic storm and was near local solar noon
at the time and probably was triggered by geomagnetic effects associated
with that storm. It was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity up
to II in Nevada at Gardnerville and Sparks.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao; the fifth node from Hokkaido, Japan
and the sevent node from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 15:35:22 40.6N 119.6W MW=3.8 EMSC NEVADA
O: 19JAN2026 19:09:01 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.2 EMSC NEVADA
O: 20JAN2026 05:46:19 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.4 EMSC NEVADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tonga with II in Neiafu Vava'u.
This epicenter is located at 102 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole;
at the sixth node from the South Geomagnetic Pole and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 05:39:04 15.0S 173.2W MB=5.1 EMSC TONGA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.9 and M 5.3 in Southern Mindanao, Philippines were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Mindanao, Philippines with III in Buayan and Davao.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 19:00:22 6.4N 123.8E MW=5.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 19JAN2026 19:54:02 6.4N 123.8E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 03:46:23 6.4N 123.7E ML=4.4 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 04:38:18 6.4N 123.7E ML=4.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar in Rangoon.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Myanmar at Nyaungdon, Yangon.
This epicenter is located at the seventh node (53 degrees) from TC Dudzai; the fourth node
from Yukon, Canada; the sixth node from Kamchatka and the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 15:43:56 17.2N 95.8E MB=4.4 EMSC MYANMAR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 6.0 in the Loyalty Islands was not felt in the area(s) of the Loyalty Islands.
This epicenter is located at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Mindanao; the fourth
node (90 degrees from Yukon, Canada and at 100 km from TC Dudzai. It may
have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 13:01:01 22.3S 170.5E MB=5.0 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
O: 19JAN2026 13:02:23 22.3S 170.3E Mw=6.0 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
O: 20JAN2026 04:39:07 22.3S 170.1E Mw=5.3 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
O: 19JAN2026 09:25:52 22.4S 170.3E mb=4.7 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Sichuan/Yunnan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sichuan/Yunnan in Zhaotong, Yunnan, China.
This epicenter is located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole
and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 11:32:06 27.1N 103.4E MB=5.2 EMSC SICHUAN/YUNNAN, CHINA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Calle Blancos, Guadalupe, San Rafael, San Felipe, San Pedro, Alajuelita.
O: 19JAN2026 23:06:55 9.9N 84.1W ML=4.3 EMSC COSTA RICA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-20 00:00 UT 23.0S 58.4E 70 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 121W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to Los Angeles, California at 34N 118-119W around January 21-22, 2026 with winds up to 70 kts where it will dissiapate. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An 4.9 east of Los Angeles on January 19 at 34N 116W may have been promoted by antipodal effects of TC Dudzai. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-20 00:00 UT 17.7N 130.0E 45 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 18S 50W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 19, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
930 1109 1119 1122 M1.1 (January 19, 2026) 4.3E-03
Sichuan, China M 5.2 11:32 UT
940 1223 1227 1230 C2.8 (January 19, 2026) 1.2E-03
Coquimbo Chile M 3.5 12:23 UT
950 1257 1307 1312 C3.4 (January 19, 2026) 2.5E-03
Loyalty Is. M 5.0, M 6.0 13:02, 13:05 UT
Sumbawa M 3.7 13:15 UT
Rat Is. M 4.1 13:18 UT
960 1357 1404 1407 C3.6 (January 19, 2026) 1.7E-03
Guerrero M 54.0 14:12 UT
Andreanof Is. M 3.7 14:08 UT
980 1522 1531 1542 C3.6 (January 19, 2026) 3.8E-03
Myanmar M 4.4 15:43 UT
Nevada M 3.8 15:35 UT
990 1744 1758 1819 C3.8 (January 19, 2026) 6.9E-03
Mariana Is. M 4.9 17:59 UT
1000 1909 1921 1945 C8.0 (January 19, 2026) 1.3E-02
Moro Gulf, Mindanao M 5.3 19:00 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: severe storms January 20 minor storms January 21 active January 22. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 25% proton storm: 99%
AP Indicies: global: 73, high: 91, mid-latitude: 64, time of max AP: 21:00 UT; Max AP: 8.7; Sunspot Number: 162; Radio Flux: 173
A severe geomagnetic storm occurred late on UT January 19, 2026. It reached high latitude
Kp of 9 (G5 severe storm levels) about 1800-1900 UT and resumed at kp 9
at high latitudes around 0600-0900 UT on January 20, 2026. Mid-latitude
Kp reached 8 late on January 19. This is the strongest geomagnetic storm
since planetary A reached 127 on November 12, 2025 (high latitude A 123 and middle latitude A 70) but middle
latitude Kp did not reach 8 with that storm. Today's storm was accompanied
by unusually large earthquakes in Southern California east of Los Angeles
of M 4.9 and an M 3.8 near Saint Louis, Missouri among others which were
apprently promoted by geomagnetic effects from the storm.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 19, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A major X-ray solar flare occurred on January 18, 2026 (#810 X1.9). SWPC reported the following
parameters for this flare. This is the most energetic solar flare since an X1.9 on June 19, 2025 (#2550).
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
810 1727 1809 1851 X1.9 (January 18, 2026) 5.8E-01
Pakistan M 5.7 06:21 UT
Honshu M 3.5 17:37 UT
Sulawesi M 4.6 17:54 UT
Xizang M 4.0 17:57 UT
Guerrero M 4.3 19:03 UT
Los Angeles, CA M 2.5 20:20 UT
Lake Baykal, Russia M 4.5 20:29 UT
The last X-class solar flare of any size occurred on December 8, 2025 with X1.1 ane a X1.7 on November 9, 2025
(#4640). The official start of this flare is 17:27 UT but X-ray flux
began a steep increase about 17:00 UT and the flare was still M-class output
as of 22:00 UT on January 18. The new moon also completed its cycle
during this flare as reported in earlier issues of this summary:
"The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight." (January 16-18, 2026)
Longitudes most likely to see enhanced seismicity with this solar flare
are from about 75 to 135 West longitude (Western Americas) which was sub-solar
in the duration of this flare. These are the most likely areas to see a moderate to strong
earthquake in the next several hours. Lesser enhancement is expected from 105 to 45 East
longitude (at local solar midnight) and includes much of eastern Asia.
A moderate earthquake which was probably promoted by SFE
from this flare occurred off the coast of Northern California with M 4.2.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Northern California
at Loleta, Carlotta and Eureka and II in Ferndale, Brookings, Fortuna, Hydesville and in O'Brien, Oregon.
This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of northern California
since an M 4.5 on July 29, 2025 near this epicenter and is therefore a
significant regional earthquake. The association with the X1.9 solar flare
is most likely not a coincidence. The M 4.5 on July 29 was closely connected to the
M 8.7 in Kamchatka of the same day but occurred several minutes before that
event. It was summarized in this report at the time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today off the coast of northern California.
This event occurred about 6 minutes prior to the M 8.8 in Kamchatka. It may
be related to slow slippage in Kamchatka prior to the mainshock or to an
unidentified source triggering both.
It was widely felt with intensity II in northern California in Saratoga, Occidental, Eureka, McKinleyville, Arcata, Bayside, Ferndale.
The last earthquake off the coast of California with magnitude of M>4.5 was an M 5.3
on December 15, 2024, an aftershock of the M 7.0 there on December 5, 2024, so
the coincidental timing with the M 8.8 in Kamchatka could not be such
a coincidence after all. The distance between Northern California epicenter
and Kamchatka is 51 degrees (node 7). Travel time for a p-phase between
these two epicenter is about 9 minutes so no seismic data would have traversed
this distance in the 6.5 minutes between these two earthquakes." (July 29, 2025)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic pole and at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 00:20:33 40.4N 125.0W MW=4.2 NEIC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19JAN2026 00:20:33 40.4N 125.0W Mw=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
The largest earthquake at this time which was apparently triggered by
the combination solar flare and new moon energies occurred in Northwestern
Kashmir, Pakistan with M 5.7 (EMSC) to M 6.0 (GSRAS) with NEIC magnitude at M 5.9. EMSC reported it was felt with strong
intensity in Pakistan in Aliabad, Islamabad, with lesser shaking in
China and Rawalpindi, Pakistan. NEIC reported intensity VI in Northern Pakistan at Hunza and III in Rawalpindi, Punjab. This earthquake occurred within minutes of
local solar noon and the epicenter was near local midnight at the time
of the new moon and the X1.9 solar flare. The last earthquake in the area
of Kashmir, Pakistan within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=5.9
occurred in March 1990 with M 6.2 on March 5 and M 6.3 on March 25, 1990 - more than 35 years ago.
The last such earthquake within about 250 km occurred on October 8, 2005
with M 7.3-7.6. At the time this summary noted:
"A powerful earthquake hit the northern border of India and Bangladesh
today and has been reported to have killed thousands in the region (3000 confirmed
at the time of this writing). Data on the
NEIC website indicates the earthquake was most widely felt in the area of Muzaffarabad
with maximum intensity VIII but that it was was widely felt in India,
Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakshstan and India. Intensity VII was
reached at Swabi and Topi, Pakistan while intensity VI was reported at Srinagar,
India, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Lakhnau, India, Hoshiarpur, India. NewKerala.com
(online Indian news source) indicates that thousands were feared killed in
Pakistan while at least 260 died in Jammu and Kashmir. Widespread damage
was reported from the North West Frontier Province and the capital of Islamabad.
At least 500 were killed and 1700 injured in Mansehra district of Pakistan's
North West Frontier Province. Many villages are said to have been completely
destroyed by the earthquake. Pledges of internationalo aid were immediately
made and help is being dispatched. Telephone and power was out in the affected
area. Landslides were common following the mainshock and a series of strong
aftershocks ranging from M 5.0-6.3. Many roads were cut by landslides and
buildings collapsed in many areas. This is the
strongest earthquake in the region bounded by (30-40N 72-80E) in the past twenty
years - since a similar M 7.5 hit the area on August 23, 1985 about 500 km north
of this epicenter in the Wuqia and Shufu area. That earthquake killed at least
71 and injured 162 while leaving up to 85% of the buildings destroyed and more
than 15,000 homeless. Today's earthquake appears to be one of the most deadly
ever to hit this region. ... recent activity in central and southern Asia, especially the landfall of several
powerful typhoons had prompted us to include the region (10S-40N 50-100E) of
south and central Asia in a seismic watch first issued on Oct. 2 and effective
through Oct. 7. This watch was extended through Oct. 15. Readers are encouraged
to follow our watches as larger earthquakes most often occur in watch periods.
We emphasized the probability of strong activity associated with Typhoon
Longwang inland Asia in India, Afghanistan, China and Iran when we stated
in our summary on Oct. 3, 2005 in this regard: "As Longwang moves into Asia seismicity may
occur at higher levels in Central Asia (India, China, Afghanistan, Iran)." (geoForecaster Inc. Oct. 3, 2005).
The immediate trigger for this event may have been a moderate geomagnetic storm
which began late last night. This is the strongest geomagnetic storm in almost a
month - since early September and fluctuations in the GOES-12 fields were about
20-30% of the total field at the time of this earthquake (03:50 UT). This
geomagnetic storm comes after a week of extreme quiet in the geomagnetic field.
Following storms in early September there was concern voiced in Indian
Seismological circles and in the press that the current geomagnetic storms and
solar flares might be destabilizing the plate with a potential strong earthquake
as a possibility. On September 18, this summary noted these concerns in our
summary when we stated following a foreshock in the general area of today's event in the India-
Banagladesh region: "The online newspaper India Daily indicated that some Indian
Scientists believe this earthquake was related to a massive degradation of the
Indian Plate due to recent Solar Flares. ... Scientists at
the India National Geophysical Reserach Institute (NGRI) indicated
that the region has been hit by great earthquakes in 1897, 1905, 1934 and 1950
and by 10 other earthquakes of M>=7.5 in the past 100 years and that today's
earthquakes was not surprising according to New India Press (online). Rediff
(on line news source) noted that the earthquake was the severest in Jammu and
Kashmir in 120 years - since an M 7.0 on May 30, 1885. Fears of a second
earthquake have been raised in Lahore and strong aftershocks continue.
...
HISTORICAL ACTIVITY
The last earthquake of M>=7.5 within about 200 km of today's epicenter
was located on April 4, 2005 with M 8.6. Following is the summary of this
earthquake from our historical earthquake database:
The earthquake that struck the Dharamshala-Kangra area in Himachal Pradesh
on April 4th, 1905 is among the deadliest earthquakes in the history of
India. According to the provincial government of Punjab, 19,727 people
were killed at Sialkot. Many of the fatalities were from Dharamshala,
Kangra and neigbhouring towns and villages. Felt from Afghanistan to Bengal.
All the buildings were destroyed at Kangra including numerous churches
and temples.
One major difficulty in this event was that most government officials
were killed and there was no one to supervise the rescue and cleanup
efforts. Most of the deaths were due to the ground shaking.
Landslides, liquifaction and other earthquake effects caused
extensive damage throughout the region." (October 8, 2005)
MIS (official Meteorologial India Seismicity site) gives the time of this earthquake
as 11:51 IST with M 5.7 within 10 minutes of local noon.
This epicenter is located at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Honshu, Japan
and from the North Geomagnetic Pole; and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Dudzai and
Kamchatka and may hve been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 06:21:12 36.8N 74.4E ML=5.7 EMSC NORTHWESTERN KASHMIR
O: 19JAN2026 06:21:12 36.8N 74.5E ML=6.0 GSRAS NORTHWESTERN KASHMIR
O: 19JAN2026 06:21:12 36.7N 74.4E ML=5.9 GSRAS NORTHWESTERN KASHMIR
Other quakes with the flare which occurred near local solar noon
have included an M 4.3 in Guerrero, Mexico and at local solar midnight
an M 4.0 in Tibet (Xizang) and Lake Baykal, Russia (M 4.5). An M 5.2 in the
Snares Island south of New Zealand occurred near the beginning of this flare.
This summary will continue updates on this important development.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in South San Francisco and Alameda.
O: 19JAN2026 04:56:35 36.7N 121.3W MD=2.7 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.0 and M 2.5 in eastern Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern Los Angeles, California with III at Lytle Creek, Corona, Colton, Lake Arrowhead, Upland, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, San Bernardino, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, and Riverside.
O: 18JAN2026 20:20:44 34.3N 117.5W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19JAN2026 01:41:25 34.2N 117.4W ML=2.9 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3-6.0 in Snares Island, New Zealand was not felt in this remote area.
GeoNet reported this event with the following parameters:
O: 18JAN2026 16:45:09 48.3S 165.1E MB=6.0 GEONET Felt weakly by 19 and lightly by 9 and with severe intensity by 0 respondents in Southern South Island and in Snares Island, New Zealand.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Kamchatka and at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 18JAN2026 16:45:08 48.3S 165.3E Mw=5.2 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z.
O: 18JAN2026 16:45:08 48.3S 165.3E MW=6.0 GEONET OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
NEIC reported earthquake of M 3.6 and M 3.1 in Central California north of Los Angeles were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California with III in Randsburg, Weldon, Johannesburg and II in San Bernardino, Ridgecrest, and Trona.
O: 18JAN2026 16:24:48 35.3N 117.8W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 18JAN2026 14:54:12 35.3N 117.8W Mw=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California at Vista.
EMSC reported this event with M 2.9 was felt with moderate shaking in Fontana, Bloomington, Colton, Muscoy, Crestline, Grand Terace, Pedley, Eastvale, Moreno Valley, California.
O: 19JAN2026 01:41:25 34.2N 117.4W ML=2.9 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Guam was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guam with III in Tamuning, Santa Rita and Yona and II in Mangilao and Dededo.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 18JAN2026 09:51:33 13.8N 145.1E MB=4.5 EMSC GUAM REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei and Taichung Counties.
EMSC reported moderate to light shaking in Taiwan in Ilan, Taipei, Taoyuan Counties.
O: 18JAN2026 08:47:45 24.3N 121.9E MW=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN
O: 18JAN2026 23:48:27 23.3N 120.8E ML=4.3 EMSC TAIWAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Baykal, Russia may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baykal, Russia,
This epicenter is within 100 km of being antipodal to an M 7.4 last year
in the Drake Passage. It is also at the third node (120 degrees) from the
South Geomagnetic Pole and the seventh node (52 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 18JAN2026 20:29:33 55.3N 110.0E MB=4.5 EMSC LAKE BAYKAL REGION, RUSSIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Golfito with a loud noise.
O: 19JAN2026 03:48:18 9.0N 83.3W ML=4.5 EMSC COSTA RICA
O: 18JAN2026 15:48:09 8.4N 82.9W ML=4.4 EMSC PANAMA-COSTA RICA BORDER REGION
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Lebanon was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Lebanon in El Hermel, Zgharta, Tripoli, Jbail, Jounieh, Jdaidet el Matn, Baabda, Beirut, Ra;s Bayrut.
This epicenter is at the sixth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and from
TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
The earthquake occurred near local solar noon.
O: 18JAN2026 11:01:38 34.2N 36.4E ML=3.4 EMSC LEBANON - SYRIA REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-19 00:00 UT 21.1S 62.8E 65 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the west and south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 118W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 34.5N 118-119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 65 kts. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An M 3.5 north of Los Angeles on January 18 at 35N 118W may suggest a possible site of an enhanced earthquake at that time. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-19 00:00 UT 16.7N 126.6E 45 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 17S 54W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 17, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
600 0306 0311 0317 C1.5 (January 18, 2026) 1.0E-03
Chiapas M 4.5 03:13 UT
610 0341 0349 0353 C1.7 (January 18, 2026) 1.5E-03
680 0353 0408 0422 C2.7 (January 18, 2026) 4.2E-03
Azerbaijan M 4.0 03:56 UT
Oaxaca M 4.0 04:03 UT
Molucca Sea M 5.1 04:16 UT
640 0601 0620 0632 C7.1 (January 18, 2026) 8.9E-03
Andreanof Is. M 3.5 06:03 UT
Papua M 4.9 06:38 UT
700 1142 1148 1155 C2.2 (January 18, 2026) 1.7E-03
Southern California M 2.7 11:42 UT
740 1359 1404 1410 C2.3 (January 18, 2026) 1.5E-03
760 1631 1637 1643 C2.5 (January 18, 2026) 1.6E-03
810 1727 1809 1851 X1.9 (January 18, 2026) 5.8E-01
Pakistan M 5.7 06:21 UT
Honshu M 3.5 17:37 UT
Sulawesi M 4.6 17:54 UT
Xizang M 4.0 17:57 UT
Guerrero M 4.3 19:03 UT
Los Angeles, CA M 2.5 20:20 UT
Lake Baykal, Russia M 4.5 20:29 UT
810 1739 1757 1944 3200 (January 18, 2026) RADIO BURST
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 19-20 disturbed January 21. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 20% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 25, mid-latitude: 12, time of max AP: 12:00 UT; Max AP: 5.3; Sunspot Number: 140; Radio Flux: 148
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 18, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight.
Moderate geomagnetic storminess continued today with no sudden commencements.
At the same time, global seismicity was at quiet levels. This is the pattern
often seen and expected while geomagnetic disturbances are active and will
change in the next several days.
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.4 in the South Sandwich Islands. It was not reported felt in this remote area.
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Taiwan and from Yukon, Canada and may
have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 17JAN2026 18:00:21 56.0S 28.9W MB=5.4 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Talkeetna, Fort Richardson, Anchorage, and II in Chugiak.
An M 3.8 earlier in the day also occurred in Southern Alaska. NEIC reported intensity II in Anchorage and Valdez, Alaska with this event.
The activity in Alaska may have been promoted by a moderate solar flare which
occurred today while this area was near local solar midnight as reported in
the previous issue of this summary:
"A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time." (January 17, 2026)
The epicenter of the M 4.2 is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hokkaido,
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 17JAN2026 14:06:00 60.9N 147.2W ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
O: 18JAN2026 02:45:01 61.9N 150.9W ML=4.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
O: 17JAN2026 18:26:01 61.2N 151.4W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii at Captain Cook.
O: 18JAN2026 00:12:42 19.4N 155.8W ML=3.2 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Southeastern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Alaska with III in Sitka.
O: 17JAN2026 21:45:51 57.2N 136.3W ML=4.0 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Anchorage, Alaska.
O: 17JAN2026 14:06:00 60.9N 147.2W ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei.
O: 17JAN2026 17:01:30 24.3N 121.8E ML=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 near Tokyo, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of near Tokyo, Japan in Komae, Tokyo.
O: 17JAN2026 16:49:48 35.6N 140.1E MB=4.5 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in Salinas.
O: 17JAN2026 13:53:24 36.7N 121.3W ML=3.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 17JAN2026 14:12:00 36.7N 121.3W MD=2.4 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 18JAN2026 00:30:22 36.7N 121.3W MD=2.3 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Azerbaijan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Azerbaijan in Shamakhi.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-18 00:00 UT 18.3S 66.5E 70 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 114W is south of the Gulf of California area of western Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 35N 119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 75 kts. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-18 00:00 UT 14.6N 125.5E 45 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 14S 55W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 17, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
220 0049 0054 0058 C3.1 (January 17, 2026) 1.4E-03
240 0220 0226 0229 C3.0 (January 17, 2026) 2.3E-03
250 0229 0237 0242 C4.4 (January 17, 2026) 3.8E-03
260 0242 0246 0248 C4.7 (January 17, 2026) 2.2E-03
270 0302 0307 0313 C2.4 (January 17, 2026) 1.7E-03
280 0357 0404 0408 C1.9 (January 17, 2026) 1.3E-03
Antofagasta M 3.8 03:57 UT
290 0413 0420 0425 C2.0 (January 17, 2026) 1.4E-03
Taiwan M 5.0 04:18 UT
320 0603 0609 0614 C2.8 (January 17, 2026) 1.7E-03
420 0729 0734 0743 C2.2 (January 17, 2026) 2.2E-03
350 0743 0748 0750 C2.0 (January 17, 2026) 1.2E-03
380 1019 1029 1032 M2.1 (January 17, 2026) 7.5E-03
470 1503 1507 1510 C5.6 (January 17, 2026) 2.6E-03
500 1804 1813 1822 C1.9 (January 17, 2026) 2.0E-03
South Sandwich Is. M 5.4 18:01 UT
Myanmar M 4.0 18:21 UT
Greenland Sea M 3.6 17:54 UT
550 2332 2342 2346 C8.4 (January 17, 2026) 5.1E-03
560 2346 2351 2354 M1.1 (January 17, 2026) 5.2E-03
Guerrero M 4.0 23:56 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 00:02 UT
XXXX 0601 0620 0632 C7.1 (January 18, 2026) 8.9E-03 *
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 18 active January 19-20. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 27, high: 39, mid-latitude: 18, time of max AP: 01:00 UT; Max AP: 5.3; Sunspot Number: 124; Radio Flux: 159
A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time.
The geomagnetic field for January 15 was active with a G-1 geomagnetic
storm and Kp5-5.3 occurring late in the day. The maximum Kp at high latitudes
occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 UT with Kp of 8. The High latitude A index today
reached 66. The last time that high latitude kp reached 8 was on November 12, 2025.
The last day that the A-index was higher than today's was also November 13, 2025.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 17, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight.
A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time.
The geomagnetic field for January 15 was active with a G-1 geomagnetic
storm and Kp 5-5.3 occurring late in the day. The maximum Kp at high latitudes
occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 UT with Kp of 8. The High latitude A index today
reached 66. The last time that high latitude kp reached 8 was on November 12, 2025.
The last day that the A-index was higher than today's was also November 13, 2025.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1007 1020 1040 M2.2 (January 17, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.5 south of Western Australia on the
Western Indian-Antarctic Ridge. It was not felt in this remote area. This earthquake
occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour. This is the
strongest earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter south of Australia
since an M 5.6 on March 31, 2023 and before that an M 5.6 on August 30, 2012. No
events of significantly larger magnitude have occurred in this area in the
past 35 years. At the time of the M 5.6 on March 31, 2023 this summary reportedL
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.6 south of Australia on the
Indian-Antarctic Ridge. The last earthquake in this area of the Indian-Antarctic
Ridge with M>=5.6 occurred on August 30, 2012 with M 5.6. Two other events of M 5.6
have occurred within about 500 km of this epicenter in the past 35 years - an M 5.6 on April 27, 2010 and an M 5.6 on June 3, 2009.
No events of larger magnitude have hit the area in at least 35 years.
This activity may have been promoted by tidal effects. This epicenter is near the
longitude of maximum tidal stress with the upcoming full moon" (March 31, 2023) as noted in
This epicenter is near the fourth node from Honshu, Japan; the fifth node from
Taiwan and the sixth node from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 16:41:09 50.1S 114.2E MW=5.5 EMSC WESTERN INDIAN-ANTARCTIC RIDGE
O: 16JAN2026 17:52:15 50.1S 114.2E Mw=5.2 EMSC WESTERN INDIAN-ANTARCTIC RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Hokkaido, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Honshu, Japan at Morioka, Iwate.
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 16JAN2026 19:34:14 41.3N 142.7E MW=5.4 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 16JAN2026 15:39:30 44.3N 142.3E ML=4.2 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii with IV in Pahala, III in Naalehu and II in Captain Cook.
O: 16JAN2026 17:55:20 19.2N 155.5W ML=3.2 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Southern Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Peru in Arica, Tarapaca Chile.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Peru at Sobraya and Pocollay.
O: 16JAN2026 07:34:37 17.6S 70.2W MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN PERU
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Central Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Turkey at Kahramanmaras, Gaziantep, and Mersin.
O: 16JAN2026 10:19:01 38.2N 36.7E ML=4.0 EMSC CENTRAL TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in Albania was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Albania in Voskopoje, Dardhas, Bucimas, Pogradec, Korce, Polican, Elbasan, Tirana; in Budva, Montenegro and in North Macedonia at Ohrid, Bitola, Stuga.
O: 16JAN2026 10:28:51 40.8N 20.6E ML=3.9 EMSC ALBANIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-17 00:00 UT 17.4S 68.9E 110 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 110 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 112W is in the Revillo Gigedo Island area of western Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 35N 119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 75 kts. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-17 00:00 UT 14.1N 124.4E 65 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 14S 55W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 16, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1007 1020 1040 M2.2 (January 17, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
9980 0259 0303 0308 C1.5 (January 16, 2026) 8.2E-04
Oregon M 6.0 03:25 UT
Taiwan M 4.6 03:09 UT
30 0847 0909 0922 C6.6 (January 16, 2026) 8.9E-03
Yukon M 2.7 08:48 UT
Taiwan M 4.5 08:49 UT
Honshu M 4.8 09:04 UT
60 1136 1141 1149 C1.3 (January 16, 2026) 1.1E-03
70 1231 1240 1246 C2.0 (January 16, 2026) 1.6E-03
Sulu, Philippines M 4.5 12:41 UT
Minahasa M 4.4 12:41 UT
Honduras M 3.0 12:42 UT
110 1715 1721 1724 C1.4 (January 16, 2026) 7.7E-04
120 1904 1915 1922 C4.0 (January 16, 2026) 3.0E-03
160 2014 2022 2026 C1.5 (January 16, 2026) 1.1E-03
170 2036 2043 2047 C1.9 (January 16, 2026) 1.3E-03
Kamchatka M 4.3 20:39 UT
190 2258 2310 2315 C5.2 (January 16, 2026) 3.4E-03
Oaxaca M 4.4 23:05 UT
200 2325 2330 2336 C2.8 (January 16, 2026) 1.8E-03
Honshu M 3.8 23:27 UT
Komandorsky M 5.2 23:22
Seram M 5.1 23:50 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 19, 2026 minor storms January 17-18. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 26, high: 66, mid-latitude: 17, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 8; Sunspot Number: 144; Radio Flux: 148
A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time.
The geomagnetic field for January 15 was active with a G-1 geomagnetic
storm and Kp5-5.3 occurring late in the day. The maximum Kp at high latitudes
occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 UT with Kp of 8. The High latitude A index today
reached 66. The last time that high latitude kp reached 8 was on November 12, 2025.
The last day that the A-index was higher than today's was also November 13, 2025.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 16, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A electron flux abrupt change also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT. A second strong geomagnetic excursion followed
starting at about 03:20 UT as recorded on the GOES-18 magnetometer which is
situated over 137 West longitude. In the hour this excursion (which dropped
the measured geomagnetic field strength from about 125 nT to 40 nT - reducing
the field strength by near two-third), the strongest earthquake of the day occurred
under this satellite off the coast of Oregon with M 6.0.
Minor geomagnetic storms are expected begin late on January 16 and last through
January 18. These could trigger enhanced seismicity at high latitudes and
near the geomagnetic equator.
The occurrence of the new moon on January 18, 2026 is likely to help enable
moderate to strong seismicity in the next several days.
The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight.
A strong earthquake of M 6.0 occurred today in the region off the coast of
Oregon. NEIC reported it was felt along the coast of Oregon with intensity IV in
Port Orford; III in Neskowin, Portland, Sherwood, Otis, Siletz, Seal Rock, Lake Oswego and Reedsport.
No tsunami was expected nor observed with this earthquake. The last earthquakes
off the coast of Oregon with M>=6 occurred as an M 6.0 on October 30, 2024 and an M 6.3 on October 29, 2019.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong M7.2 solar flare occurred today beginning as a C5.4 at 20:14 UT as the earthquake occurred
and continuing until about 21:14 UT as an M7.2 flare with the following
preliminary paramaters from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3390 2014 2022 2029 C5.4 (October 30, 2024) 5.5E-03
3410 2029 2053 2114 M7.2 (October 30, 2024) 1.1E-01
Off coast of Oregon M 6.0 20:15 UT
An earthquake of M 6.0 occurred minutes into the time of occurrence of these flare off the coast of Oregon.
This earthquake occurred within several minutes of local solar noon and was
likely triggered by Solar Flare Effects (SFE) from this flare which maximize near
local solar noon. It also occurred shortly about an hour after a strong Gamma Ray
Burst. Both the flare and the M 6.0-6.1 earthquake may have been triggered
by energy flux associated with the Gamma Ray Burst (GRB #241030). NEIC reported it was lightly felt in Oregon at Bandon, Coquille, Coos Bay, North Bend, Waldport, Newport, Veneta, Eugene, Tillamook, Albany, Tolovana Park, Salem, Astoria, Portland, Hood River, Vancouver, Ashford, Tacoma, Redmond, Lynnwood, Everett (IV), Washington, and in Crescent City, Redding, McKinleyville, Fortuna, California and perhaps as far as 1000 km from the epicenter in Central California. The parameters for this earthquake and a regional aftershock of
M 4.3 onshore in Oregon from EMSC are:
O: 30OCT2024 20:15:19 43.4N 127.8W ML=6.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
O: 30OCT2024 20:16:19 44.6N 120.5W ML=4.3 EMSC OREGON
The last earthquakes within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=6 occurred
with M 6.3 on August 29, 2019 and M 6.2 on August 22, 2018. Only one other such
event has hit the area in the past 15 years - an M 6.0 on April 11, 2012.
At the time of the 2019 event this summary noted:
"This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of Oregon within about 250
km of this epicenter in more than 10 years - since an M 6.3 on January 10, 2008
and prior to that an M 6.3 on January 16, 2003. The only event in the region
with greater magnitude in the past 30 years was an M 6.9 on July 13, 1991." (August 29, 2019)
More recently on September 2, 2024 this summary reviewed recent seismicity in the area as:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.2 off the coast of Oregon.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 4.2 off the coast of Oregon was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Oregon in Portland.
This area has been relatively quiet in recent months. The last earthquake
of M>=4.2 occurred on May 4, 2024 with M 4.3. The last of significantly larger
magnitude was an M 5.7 on March 27, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.7 off the coast of
Oregon. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to III along the coast of Oregon,
especially in the Port Orford area. EMSC reported light shaking in Springfield, Oregon. A foreshock of M 3.0 hit the area within
minutes of local solar noon about 12 hours earlier and was felt in the Port Orford,
Oregon area. These earthquake occurred near local solar noon and
midnight and may have been promoted by tidal stresses with the full moon" (March 27, 2024, September 2, 2024)
Strong Earthquakes off the coast of Oregon and Northern California often occur together
in periods of regional activation of the west coast of the U.S. and Canada"( October 30, 2024)
This summary had suggested several possible precursors to this event in previous
issues. Some of these included:
"This earthquake in the Kuril Islands also occurred during a strong M3.3 class
solar flare. This flare occurred on the solar rim and had a major Coronal
Mass Emission associated with it. The sunspot region will continue
to rotate reaching an area directly in the center of the sun as seen from
earth around January 20-21. A major flare at that time from this sunspot
group could trigger additional seismicity. This will occur with the new
moon of January 18 (UT) which will see areas of coastal California at
local solar noon at its completion. The combination could promote a moderate
to strong earthquake ..."" (January 12, 2026)
"Some earthquakes occur at longitudes which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE." (Daily reminder in Solar Flare section of this summary)
(note that the area of Oregon was nearly at local solar noon at the time
of this flare).
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in east-central South Dakota was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of east-central South Dakota.
Earthquakes in this area have occasionally preceded larger global earthquakes
especially along the Western North American boundary and to a lesser extent
in the western Pacific Ring of Fire." (January 10, 2026)
"A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 14:00 UT when electron flux started
a steep increase. The A-index for the day of 32 is the highest A-value
since December 3, 2025 when it also reached 32-33. The storm reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 6.0 between 1800 and 2100 UT.
GOES magnetometers show a near doubling of field strength at the start o
the major storm at about 20:00-20:15 UT. Longitudes most likely to
see a seismic increase are at local solar noon and include areas near
120 West, including much of California. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 6.6 on December 3, 2025." (January 12, 2026)
It may also be of some interest that this event continues a series of significant
earthquake in the past several days at 44 North latitude including those
in Hokkaido, Japan and northern Italy.
This epicenter is at 147 degrees from TC Dudzai; and at the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 03:25:53 43.7N 128.0W MW=6.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
O: 16JAN2026 06:35:03 43.6N 127.9W ML=3.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
The earthquake off the coast of Oregon was followed by an unusual earthquake
in the Gulf of Honduras off the east coast of northern Guatemala of M 5.2-5.4. This event
had been expected at this time as it occurred at the antipode of TC Jenna
as noted in earlier issues of this summary:
"Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 110 kts south of Sumatra exploding in size over the past day. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 16N 86W - an area of Honduras. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. It is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area around that time." (January 5, 2026)
"Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 18N 90W - an area of northern Guatemala. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. TC Jenna is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to northern Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area in the next two days." (January 6-7, 2026)
The earthquake in northern Guatemala and Honduras today was widely felt in Honduras and
Belize. NEIC reported intensity V in Honduras in Cortes at Puerto Cortes, Cofradia and San Pedro Sula; IV in Pena Blanca, Villanueva, Armenta, Choloma,ana Zaotal del Norte and in Punta Gorda, Toledo and Dangriga Stann Creek Belize.
EMSC reported moderat to strong shakin in Honduras at Choloma, Pena Blanca, El Zaotal del Norte, San Pedro Sula, El Progreso, Tela, Santa Barbara, Corozal, Coxen Hole, El Lolo and Tegucigalpa; in Belize at San Ignacio, Belize City, Punta Gorda, Placencia, Dangriga, Belmopan, Benque Viejo el Carmen, and in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala,
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Honduras or Guatemala
with equal or greater magnitude than M 5.2 occurred on August 2, 2022 with M 5.4
and as an M 5.2 on August 25, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual M 5.4 occurred today of the coast of Honduras. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity VI in Honduras at El Triunfo de la Cruz, Atlantida; IV in El Porvenir and III in Choloma, and La Jutosa, Cortes.
The mainshock was followed by several aftershocks of M 4.2 which were lightly felt in the same area.
A similar event within about 150 km of this epicenter occurred on April 10, 2013 (M 5.4). This is the strongest earthquake in Honduras since an M 6.0 on April 16, 2020 followed
by an aftershock of M 5.7 on August 10, 2020. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
A strong M 6.0 was also felt in the region north of Honduras today. NEIC reported maximum shaking V at Savannah Bight, Jose Santos, Monte Placentero; IV in Roatan Islas, Sandy Bay, Trujilo Colon, Nueva Armenia, Jutiapa, Utila Islas and Corozal, Honduras.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter north of Honduras
since an M 7.3 on May 28, 2009. An M 7.6 also hit slightly outside this zone
in Honduras on January 10, 2018 and like the event in northern Colombia two days
ago at 104 degrees from the M 6.8 in eastern Turkey of January 24. It is part of an activation of Central America which began in northern Colombia
two days ago as noted in this summary:
"Further moderate to large seisicity in the region of Central and South America
is likely as the new moon approaches. In the absence of other important
triggers to seismicity such as geomagnetic storms, major earthquakes and
tropical cyclones, the tidal factors tend to dominate earthquake triggering and
these are strongest near the full moon (around April 23)." (April 15-26, 2020)
(April 17, 2020, August 2, 2022)
This epicenter is near the fourth node from Kamchatka and 105 degrees from
Hokkaido, Japan and may have been promoted by enery from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 06:08:45 15.7N 88.2W MW=5.2 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 06:28:16 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.5 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 06:52:45 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.5 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 07:10:46 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.0 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 07:44:09 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.2 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 07:54:06 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.5 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in northern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Chile in Arica, Tarapaca.
O: 16JAN2026 07:34:37 17.6S 70.2W MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in northern Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Colombia with III in La Calera, Cundinamarca and II in La Capilla, Boyaca and Armenia, Quindio.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Colombia at San Gil, Chiqinquira, Soacha, Itagui.
Like the Oregon event today (see above) this epicenter is at 144 degrees
from TC Dudzai and from Taiwan and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 07:05:28 6.8N 73.0W MB=4.9 EMSC NORTHERN COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.9 in Guerrero, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guerrero, Mexico with IV in Acapulco, and II in the states of Pueble, Oaxaca, Mexico, Veracruz, and in Mexico City.
EMSC reported moderat shaking in Mexico at Tres Palos, Chilpancingo, Ciudad de Huitzico, Colonia Milpillas, Xochimilco, Benito Juarez, Los Reyes Acaquilpan, Venustiano Carranza, Villa Hermosa, Santiago Teyahualco.
O: 16JAN2026 06:42:56 16.8N 99.5W MB=4.9 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 08:21:36 16.8N 99.6W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in New Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Mexico at Carlsbad.
O: 15JAN2026 23:31:28 32.0N 103.8W ML=2.0 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 01:21:45 32.0N 103.8W ML=2.0 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 08:50:30 32.5N 104.7W ML=3.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 09:04:47 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 10:10:10 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.6 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 13:27:22 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.7 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 00:31:01 32.5N 104.6W ML=3.4 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 03:45:52 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 05:18:46 32.5N 104.6W ML=3.3 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 09:15:56 32.6N 104.6W ML=3.3 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Salinas, Carmel Valley, Pebble Beach, Monterey and II in Salinas, Hollister, San Ramon, and Gonzales.
O: 16JAN2026 02:24:54 36.7N 121.3W MW=3.3 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Northern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Chile in Iquique, Tarapaca with intensity IV and in Arica with III.
EMSC also reported moderate shaking in Iquique and Arica, Chile.
O: 16JAN2026 02:13:23 19.8S 70.1W MW=5.0 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco, California with III in Tracy and II in Milpitas, Fremont, San Jose, Santa Cruz, Alameda.
O: 15JAN2026 14:54:41 37.5N 121.6W ML=3.0 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay at Mandalay and Meiktila.
EMSC reported light shaking in Myanmar at Meiktila, Kyaukse, Nyaungshwe, Yamenthin, Sagaing, Indein, Puin Oo Lwin, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Raunggyi, Syriam and in Thailand at Chiang Mai.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from TC Dudzai and Hokkaido, Japan
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those
two sources.
O: 15JAN2026 12:12:18 21.1N 96.0E MB=4.9 EMSC MYANMAR
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Taiwan in Yilan and Taoyuan, Taipei.
O: 16JAN2026 03:09:32 24.4N 122.0E ML=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-16 00:00 UT 17.4S 68.9E 110 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 110 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 112W is in the Revillo Gigedo Island area of western Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 35N 119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 75 kts. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NOKEAN 2026-01-16 00:00 UT 12.5N 127.0E 45 kts East of Central Philippines
Tropical Depression Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area east of northern Mindanao, Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 12S 53W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 15, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9860 0620 0636 0700 C9.7 (January 15, 2026) 1.6E-02
Papua M 4.2 06:18 UT
Southern Alaska M 3.7 06:28 UT
Dead Sea M 4.2 07:00 UT
9870 1245 1252 1256 C2.3 (January 15, 2026) 1.2E-03
Banda M 4.1 12:56 UT
9890 1308 1314 1316 C1.6 (January 15, 2026) 8.4E-04
9920 1847 1853 1855 C1.4 (January 15, 2026) 7.3E-04
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 16, 2026 minor storms January 17-18. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 5% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 12, high: 17, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 08:00 UT; Max AP: 4; Sunspot Number: 123; Radio Flux: 139
A electron flux abrupt change also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT, the strongest earthquake of the day.
Minor geomagnetic storms are expected begin late on January 16 and last through
January 18. These could trigger enhanced seismicity at high latitudes and
near the geomagnetic equator.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 15, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In the previous issue of this summary the following observations were made:
"A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:20 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment." (January 14, 2026)
The earthquake of M 5.6 in Hokkaido is the strongest in that region within
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hokkaido, Japan may have been felt with intensity up to IV in Akkeshi, Japan.
This is the strongest earthquake in Hokkaido within about 200 km since an M 5.8 on October 24, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8-5.9 in Hokkaido, northern
Japan. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in Sibetsu, Hokkaido.
JMA reported intensity up to V (Japanese intensity scale maximizes at 7) in several areas of eastern Hokkaido and lesser intensity in eastern Hokkaido within about 150 km of the epicenter.
There was some minor damage reported but no major damage or tsunami with
this earthquake. Video of the shaking can be found on the web. The last earthquake
in Hokkaido within about 200 km of today's epicenter of M>=5.9 was an M
6.0 on June 21, 2025 and an M 5.9 on June 18, 2025. At the time this summary
noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.9-6.1 hit the region of Hokkaido, Japan today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity I in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. No tsunami was observed nor expected." (June 18, 2025)
The last earthquake of significantly larger magnitude in Hokkaido in this
area occurred as an M 6.7 on January 14, 2016. At the time this summary noted:
The earthquake in Hokkaido, Japan was reported with maximum intensity V in Aomori at Misawa and IV in Aomori, Hachinohe, in Hokkaido at Obihiro, Sapporo and Shizunai. Intensity II-III was
NEIC also reported felt activity from central Honshu Prefectures of Tokyo; Miyashiro, Saitama, Wakuya, Sendai, Miyagi, Yokohama, Kanagawa; Morioka, Iwate, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Otofuke, Kitahiroshima, Iwanai, Hakodate, Chitose, Asahikawa, Hokkaido; Fukushima; Narita, Chiba, Hokkaido, Japan.
NEIC also reported a second earthquake of M 6.7 about a minute earlier in
Hokkaido. NEIC reported this was felt with intensity V in Obihiro, Hokkaido and IV in Aomori, Misawa and Sapporo. It was also felt with intensity II-III up to 1000 km away in Settsu, Osaka and 750 km in Tokyo. Also reported with intensity II-III in Hachinohe, Iwanai, Morioka, and Sendai, Japan.
Tidal stresses may have helped promote this earthquake. The occurrence was
within about an hour of local solar midnight, a prime time for tidal stresses
to promote seismicity. ... The last earthquake within about 200 km of this
epicenter with M>=6.7 occurred on March 14, 2012 with M 7.0. No tsunami was
reported with today's earthquake." (January 14, 2016)
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar midnight and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour." (October 24, 2025)
O: 14JAN2026 22:13:13 42.7N 145.5E ML=5.6 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 14JAN2026 23:18:19 37.6N 95.3E ML=5.0 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
An abrupt change in electron flux also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT, the strongest earthquake of the day.
NEIC reported the earthquake in the Rat Islands may have been felt with intensity
up ot IV in the area of Attu Station, Alaska. The last earthquake in the Rat Islands
within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=5.9 occurred as an M 5.9 on August 28, 2025 but
the lawst of larger magnitude was an M 6.3 on December 14, 2022. At the time
this summary noted:
"Two strong earthquakes occurred in the world today - an M 6.3 in the Rat Islands, Aleutians, Alaska
and an M 6.0-6.2 in Taiwan. This activity coincided with a major increase in
strong solar flares with several M-class solar flares recorded including an M6.3
(flare 200) and an M4.5 (flare 450). The M6.3 is the strongest since an M8.7 on October 2, 2022 (flare 6640).
An X1.0 also occurred on October 2, 2022 (Flare 6890), the only X-flare in the past
six monthsAn X1.0 also occurred on October 2, 2022 (Flare 6890), the only X-flare in the past
six months. It is likely that this solar activity helped promote today's
earthquakes which occurred near the geomagnetic equator and at high latitudes
- regions where SFE is a likely seismic trigger.
...
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada or the world today was an M 6.3
in the Rat Islands, Aleutians, Alaska. It was not reported felt in this remote
region. A smaller earthquake of M 5.3 hit the Rat Islands on December 10, 2022.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.3 in the Rat Islands, Aleutians, Alaska. It was not reported felt in this remote epicentral area.
The last earthquake with M>=5.3 in the Rat Islands was an M 6.3 half a year
ago on June 4, 2022. At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"The event of M 6.3 in the Rat Islands was not reported felt in this remote area.
This is the strongest earthquake in the Rat Islands since an M 6.4 on April 2, 2019.
These appear to be aftershocks of the M 7.9 that hit about 50 km southeast of today's epicenter
on June 23, 2014. Today's event occurred near local solar noon and was likely
promoted by high tidal stresses which maximize near this hour. It may also have
been promoted by the recent geomagnetic storm." (June 5, 2022, December 14, 2022)
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole; and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and 108 degrees from TC Dudzai
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 08:52:45 51.7N 176.7E MB=5.9 NEIC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 15JAN2026 08:52:45 51.7N 176.7E mb=5.6 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
During this electron flux excursion moderate earthquakes occurred in New Mexico (M 3.5);
the Ionian Sea south of Italy (M 4.4); San Juan, Argentina (M 4.9) and Guerrero,
Mexico (M 4.0).
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in the Dead Sea region was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Dead Sea region with III in Bet Shemesh, Jerusalam and II in Gazzah and Za'tarah Bayt Lahm, Palestine.
EMSC reported it was felt in the Dead Sea region in Israel at Arad, Dimona, Beersheva, 'Omer, Bet Shemesh, West Jerusalem, Sederot, Ashkelon, Gedera, Rehovot, Rishon LeZiyyon, Yehud, Ramat Gan, Kokhav Ya'ir, Hadera, Haifa; in Beirut, Lebanon and in Jordan at Al Mazar al Janubi, Isra, At Tafilah, Qir Moav, Al Jubayhah, Amman, Al 'Abdalli, Wadi as Sir, Ma'an, and in Palestine at Khallat Hamamah among others.
The last earthquake in the Dead Sea region with M>=4.3 within about 200 km
of today's event was an M 4.7 on July 4, 2018 and events of M 4.5 and M 4.6 on November 20 and 23, 2007/
At the time of the event in July, 2018 this summary noted:
"Seismicity in the area of the eastern Mediterranean Sea remained at high levels today.
This included an M 4.8 in the Dead Sea area of Israel, the strongest in the current
swarm and an M 5.0 in Albania, an unusually large quake for Albania.
The swarm of earthquakes in Israel in the Dead Sea area continued and enhanced today with
an M 4.8. NEIC reported it was felt in Israel in Hazafon with intensity IV in Eilabun, Yavne'el, Rame, Zefat, Rosh Pinna, Shagor, Hazor HaGelilit. Lesser shaking of II-III was felt in Israel at Nazerat Illit, Nazerat, Iksal, Sajur, Ilut, Karmiel, Neink Peqi'in, Sulam, Timrat, Kisra-Sumei, Afula, Jish, Tuba-Zangariyye, Hazor HaGelilit, Kefar Weradim, Qiryat Tiv'on, Yoqnw'qm Illit, in Haifa at Rekhasim, in Jordan at al-Mugayyir and al-Mansiyah, and in general within about 200 km of the epicenter. It was also reported felt in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Jordan.
The last earthquake of M>=4.8 in the Dead Sea region was an M 5.1 on February 15, 2008
more than 10 years ago." (July 4, 2018)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
CD Dudzai; the fourth node (90 degrees) from Mindanao and Yukon, Canada
and may at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic pole
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 07:00:26 31.1N 35.3E ML=4.3 EMSC DEAD SEA REGION
An earthquake of M 4.4 in Southern California today was the strongest event
in the continental U.S. today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in
El Centro, California. Several lighter foreshocks and aftershocks accompanied
the mainshock. An M 3.5 foreshock was felt with intensity IV in California at Holtville, III in Brawley, El Centro, Imperial and II in Heber and in Mexicali, Baja California.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Mexicali, Baja California and in Lomas de Abolo, Ejido el Choropo, Mexico
and in Yuma, Arizona with a loud rumble. Strong aftershock sequences in this
area of southern California often include a second moderate earthquake.
This event continues an exceptionally active period of seismicity throughout
California including an M 4.4 in northern California yesterday (see previous
summary issue for details). This is the strongest earthquake in southern California within about 100 km
of today's epicenter since an M 5.5 on January 23, 2025. The last event of significantly
lare magnitude in the region was an M 4.9 on May 12, 2024 followed by an M 4.6
afterhock on May 12 and again on June 5, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.9-5.0 in Baja California
near the border with California (US), It was widely felt with intensity up to
VI in the region of Delta, Baja California, Mexico. EMSC reported light to moderate
shaking in Southern California in Calexico, El Centro, Carlsbad, Oceanside, in Arizona at Yuma; Holtville and in Baja California in Mexicali.
Numerous foreshocks and aftershocks were felt in the Delta Baja California region of Mexico with light to moderate intensity (II-IV).
The M 4.9 is the strongest earthquake in Baja within about 200 km of this event in more than three years.
An M 4.8 hit the same epicenter on March 31, 2021. The series began with a
light event of M 2.4 that occurred at the height of the strongest solar flare
of the day - an X1.0 which peaked at 16:35 UT. An earthquake of M 3.9 off the
coast of Honshu, Japan also occurred with the peak of this X1.0 class flare
at 16:37 UT. A similar simultaneity of the foreshock to this event occurred
with M 4.1 on May 8, 2024 and an X-class solar flare. At the time this summary noted
this as:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.1 on the
border between Southern California and Baja California. This earthquake
was closely associated with a series of strong solar flares beginning
with flare 270 (C9.3) around 01:00 UT and ending with flares 280 and 290 (about 01:15-01:35 UT) - an X1.0 class flare.
It is likely it was promoted by SFE from those sources. (May 8, 2024, May 12, 2024)
It may be of some interest that the earthquake in the Dead Sea (see above) and
the similar earthquake in Southern California occurred near the same latitude (31.1 north latitude).
An earlier M 3.5 in Baja California was also at 31.1 degrees north latitude.
An M 3.5 in New Mexico was also at this latitude today (32.5N).
Today's earthquake in Southern California occurred near local solar midnight
and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from Taiwan and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North
Geomagnetic Pole and from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 09:54:37 32.8N 115.5W ML=4.4 NEIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 15JAN2026 09:54:37 32.8N 115.5W ML=4.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Jalisco, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Jalisco, Mexico with III in Puerto Vallarta and II in Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico.
EMSC gave this event M 4.1 and noted it was strongly felt with a loud earthquake noise in Jalisco, Mexico
at Boca de Tomatlan, Boca Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta, Las Jarretaderas, Las Juntas, Mexico.
This epicenter is near the antipode of Tropical Cyclone Dudzai as reported
in previous issues of this summary:
"Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 85 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 104W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far noth as the Gulf of California." (January 14, 2026)
This earthquake in Jalisco, Mexico follows two moderate events of M 4.4 and M 4.4
north of this in the Gulf of California that occurred earlier in the day. These
events were not reported to have been felt. These were also likely promoted by
antipodal effects from TC Dudzai (see above).
In addition to being antipodal to TC Dudzai this area is also at the third node
(120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and from Taiwan and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 03:32:27 18.0N 103.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE MICHOACAN, MEXICO
O: 14JAN2026 13:18:50 20.5N 105.3W ML=4.1 EMSC JALISCO, MEXICO
O: 14JAN2026 07:40:37 23.5N 108.5W ML=4.4 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
O: 14JAN2026 06:50:42 23.6N 108.5W ML=4.4 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in New Mexico may have been felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Hope, New Mexico.
While the Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico has seen active seismicity
in recent years, this epicenter is not associated with much of that as
it is located about 100 km north and west of the most active seismic sites.
The last earthquake in this area of M>=3.5 was an M 3.5 on October 16, 2025.
The last of larger magnitude was an M 4.0 and M 3.9 on February 23 and 24, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual earthquake of M 4.0 occurred today in New Mexico near the border with
western Texas in the Permian Basin. NEIC reported these earthquakes of M 4.0 and 2.8 in Western Texas were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Texas in Atoka, New Mexico.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Artesia. This event is somewhat unusual as most activity in this region in recent
years has been occurring about 100 km to the south of today's epicenter.
The last earthquake with M>=4 within about 100 km of today's epicenter was an M 4.0 on July 19, 2021 about
100 km southeast of today's event. Two events hit within about 50 km on March 28 and May 31, 2010. The
only event of larger magnitude than M 4.0-4.1 in the region in the past 35 years
was an M 5.0 about 150 km to the southeast on January 2, 1992.
It is likely that today's event was promoted by SFE from the X6.3 flare
along with tidal stresses from the full moon of February 24." (February 23-24, 2024)
This epicenter is at the third node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
may have been promoted by energy associated with that location.
O: 15JAN2026 08:50:31 32.5N 104.7W ML=3.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Argentina in Mendoza.
O: 15JAN2026 08:30:14 31.5S 68.9W MB=4.9 EMSC SAN JUAN, ARGENTINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Eastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Eastern Honshu, Japan with III in Takayama, Gifu and Nagano and II in Okazaki, Aichi.
O: 15JAN2026 05:40:16 36.3N 137.7E MW=4.7 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 15JAN2026 05:48:05 36.3N 137.8E Mw=5.1 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 15JAN2026 05:43:30 36.4N 137.6E ML=4.3 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 north of San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of north of San Francisco, California with III in Napa and Sacramento and II in Winters.
O: 14JAN2026 15:48:16 38.6N 122.2W MD=2.8 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 14JAN2026 20:48:52 38.5N 122.3W MD=2.1 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Guatemala was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guatemala in San Marcos la Laguna, Solola.
O: 14JAN2026 11:44:26 13.5N 91.6W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE GUATEMALA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-15 00:00 UT 17.3S 75.2E 115 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 115 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 104W is in Jalisco and Michoacan, Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NOKEAN 2026-01-15 00:00 UT 10.0N 128.9E 40 kts East of Central Philippines
Tropical Depression Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area east of northern Mindanao, Philippines with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 10N 51W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 14, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9670 0334 0350 0354 C9.6 (January 14, 2026) 4.4E-03
Siberia M 4.5 03:44 UT
9680 0409 0416 0424 C2.5 (January 14, 2026) 2.0E-03
9710 0625 0628 0630 C1.2 (January 14, 2026) 5.5E-04
Oaxaca M 4.0 06:27 UT
Myanmar M 4.0 06:26 UT
Gulf of California M 4.4 06:50 UT
9770 0945 0953 0957 C1.8 (January 14, 2026) 1.1E-03
Oaxaca M 4.2 09:47 UT
Washington State M 2.4 09:55 UT
9810 1607 1617 1625 C3.6 (January 14, 2026) 2.9E-03
Fiji M 4.5 16:21 UT
9820 2010 2033 2052 M1.6 (January 14, 2026) 2.3E-02
New Guinea M 4.2 20:30 UT
Kuril M 5.1 20:36 UT
iSan Francisco M 2.2 21:01 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 15 quiet January 16, 2026 minor storms January 17. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 7, high: 10, mid-latitude: 5, time of max AP: 14:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 70; Radio Flux: 127
A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:10 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment.
A electron flux abrupt change also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT, the strongest earthquake of the day.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 14, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:20 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment. more on these in the next issue
of this summary.
O: 14JAN2026 22:13:13 42.7N 145.5E ML=5.6 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 14JAN2026 23:18:19 37.6N 95.3E ML=5.0 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
The most unusual earthquake in the world today was an M 4.6 in northern Italy near Fornace Zarattini.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity IV in Emilia-Romagna, Ital at Forli and Cesena and III in Bagnacavallo and Ravenna and in Serravalle, San Marino.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Italy at Roncadello, Faenza, Forli, Lugo, San Potito, Carpena, Castel Bolognese, Madonna Dell'Albero, Ravenna, Brisighella, Imola, Lido Adriano, Cesena, Punta Maria, Toscanella, Galeata, Gatteo-Sant'Angelo, Rimini, Falciano, Montelabbate among others. It was felt as far as Croatia and Slovenia.
An M 4.2 aftershock occurred minutes later and was also felt in the same area.
This earthquake occurred in late morning, local solar time. It is the strongest
earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Northern Italy since an
M 5.1 on September 18, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"An unusually large M 5.1 struck the area of Northern Italy today. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity IV in San Godenzo, Toscana, Brisighella Emilia-Romagna, Castrocaro Terme and Terra del Sole and Forli with lesser shaking in Borgo, San Lornzo, Scarperia, Riolo Terme, Pontassieve and Imola among others.
This is the strongest earthquake in northern Italy within about 200 km of
this epicenter since an M 5.6 about 200 km to the east on November 9, 2022 but the
last within about 100 km of today's epicenter was an 6.1 on May 20, 2012 and and M 5.5
aftershock on May 29, 2012. At the time of the May 20, 2012 event this summary noted:
"Three strong earthquakes of M 5.8-6.1 hit in the world today and were probably
triggered by tidal forces associated with the upcoming solar eclipse which
will occur later today. The most widely felt and damaging of today's events
occurred as an M 6.1 in northern Italy ...
The last earthquake in northern Italy of similar or larger magnitude (and the only such
event in the past 22 years) was an M 6.4 on September 26, 1997." (May 20, 2012, September 18, 2023)
This epicenter is located at 102 degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Yukon, Canada as well as at 143 degrees from the South Geomagnetic
pole and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 08:27:59 44.3N 12.0E MB=4.6 EMSC NORTHERN ITALY
O: 13JAN2026 08:29:18 44.3N 12.0E ML=4.2 EMSC NORTHERN ITALY
O: 14JAN2026 07:16:18 44.4N 12.0E ML=2.7 EMSC NORTHERN ITALY
A strong M 6.2 (EMSC) to Mb 7.0 (RSSC - the local Russian Seismic Network) occurred today in the southern Kuril Islands
east of Hokkaido, Japan. News reports indicated it was lightly felt in the
general remote epicentral area near Kuril'sk, Russia. The last earthquake of M>=6.2
within about 200 km of this epicenter occurred as an M 6.5 on December 28, 2023. At
the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.5 in the Kuril Islands. NEIC reported
that three people reported feeling this earthquake with intensity up to VI mainly in the northeastern parts of Sapporo, Japan and in Kuril'sk, Russia.
The last earthquake in the Kuril Islands within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred on February 13, 2020 and prior to that as an M 6.7 on May 25, 2001. A great earthquake
hit the area with M 8.3 on October 4, 1994 nearly 30 years ago. Strong aftershocks
continued through February 1997." (December 28, 2023)
"Today's event of M 7.0 in the Kuril Islands is the strongest quake recorded in the
Southern Kuril Islands in near seven years - since an M 7.2 on April 19, 2013 and prior to that an M 7.3 on November 17, 2002." (February 13, 2020, December 28, 2023)
Today's event continues the series of events in the Kuril Islands reported in the previous issue of this summary.
It is consistent with the forecast of January 4, 2026 for the next strong
earthquake in the series as reiterated in the previous issue as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai and the
eighth node (45 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
This earthquake may have been promoted by SFE from a moderate B9 solar flare
as it occurred at the maximum output of that flare. Several aftershocks
were also apparently related to subsequent solar flares (see flare list
in this summary). Data on this flare (#9550 B9.2) from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9550 0730 0733 0738 B9.2 (January 13, 2026) 4.9E-04
Kuril Islands M 6.2 07:34 UT
Fiji M 4.6 07:38 UT
It may be of some interest that the earthquake in Italy (see above) occurred
at the same latitude as the swarm in the Kuril Islands (44.3-44.5 North latitude).
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:08 44.7N 149.2E MW=6.2 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 08:51:34 44.5N 149.4E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 09:39:43 44.5N 149.3E mb=4.4 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 09:54:32 44.5N 149.2E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 08:22:32 44.6N 149.3E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:08 44.6N 149.3E MW=6.2 EMSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:07 45.3N 149.7E MB=7.0 RSSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
The most widely felt earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today ocurred in northern
California near Willits with M 4.4. It was reported by NEIC to have been felt with
intensity V in Redwood Valley; IV in Potter Valley, Willits, upper Lake, Philo; III in Pittsburg, Hopland, Ukiah, Hidden Valley Lark and Yorkville.
EMSC reported it as a strong but short shaking in California at Willits, Laytonville, Fort Bragg, and Lakeport.
An aftershock of M 3.8 was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity IV in California at Redwood Valley; III in Potter Valley, Point Arena, Willits, Ukiah and II in San Jose and Philo.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter in Northern California
with M>=4.4 occurred on June 18, 2023 also with M 4.4. Three other events in this area
have occurred with M 4.4 in the past 19 years but the strongest earthquake in
the area since 2000 was an M 4.8 on April 18, 2007. i
At the time of the previouis M 4.4 this summary noted in this regard:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.4 in Northern Canada. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Lakeport, Upper Lake, Nice and III in Ukiah, Hopland, Yorkville, Boonville, Lucerne and Redwood Valley among others.
The last earthquake in the Lake Country of Northern California (not including
seismicity in the Geysers area) with M>=4.4 occurred on 4.4 on December 6, 2020 and an M 4.5 on September 25, 2012. The
only event in the area in the pat 35 years of significantly larger magnitude than M 4.4 was an M 4.8
on April 18, 2007." (June 18, 2023)
Several faults including the San Andreas run through this area and could produce
major earthquakes if they rupture along the length of the fault.
This epicenter is located at 101 degrees from Mindanao; at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Taiwan and at the seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 21:10:54 39.4N 123.3W MW=4.4 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 13JAN2026 22:51:55 39.4N 123.2W Mw=3.5 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 14JAN2026 04:42:45 39.8N 123.3W MD=2.9 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in San Francisco Bay, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay, California with III in Burlingame, San Bruno and Pacifica and II in South San Francisco and Daly City.
An earlier shock of M 2.2 was also lightly felt at the same epicenter.
This event occurred near local solar noon in the ongoing series of earthquakes
in this area near this hour (see above for description of the Lake Country
M 4.4 in California today for further example).
O: 14JAN2026 02:00:56 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 13JAN2026 22:35:34 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California with IV in Mecca and II in Palm Springs.
O: 14JAN2026 00:56:14 33.6N 115.9W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 13JAN2026 22:42:02 33.5N 115.9W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in eastern Greater Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern Greater Los Angeles, California with III in Moreno Valley, Redlands, Riverside, Moreno Valley, Grand Terrace, and II in Bloomington.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have been
triggered by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
O: 13JAN2026 21:33:25 34.0N 117.2W ML=2.7 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of central California in Palmdale, Edwards and Littlerock.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have been
triggered by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
O: 13JAN2026 20:20:28 35.3N 117.8W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 13JAN2026 18:38:15 35.3N 117.8W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
P: 14JAN2026 178785 35.9N 117.7W 2.5-4.4 AAAAA So. California
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in central California near San Simeon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of in central California near San Simeon in Nipomo and Templeton.
O: 13JAN2026 13:07:03 35.8N 121.2W MD=2.6 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in North Island, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of North Island, New Zealand with III in Palmerston North and II in Kapiti, Wellington.
GeoNet reported the following parameters for this earthquake:
O: 13JAN2026 21:31:33 40.6S 176.1E ML=4.7 GEONET Felt with moderate to light intensity in the area southeast of Wellington, New Zealand and in southern North Island and northern South Island. 2391 reports of felt events were made of which 1445 reported weak and 828 light intensity with 105 reports of moderate shaking and 7 with strong and 0 severe and 6 with extreme intensity came from the area.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter with M>=4.9 occurred on January 28, 2025 with
M 5.1. At the time this summary noted:
"Minutes after the unusual earthquake of M 4.7 northwest of New Zealand an M 5.1 was widely felt in the Manawatu-Wanganui region north of Wellington, New Zealand. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity V in Feilding and IV in Minatangi, Levin, Palmerston North, Rongotea, Wanganui, Masterton, Eketahuna, Taihape and in Wellington at Featherston, Kapiti, Otaki, Porirua and Upper Hutt. Also felt in south Island with intensity II at Cheviot, Centerbury.
and III in Hawke's Bay at Napier, Otane. The last earthquake within North Island
within about 150 km of this epicenter with M>=5.7 occurred on February 15, 2023 with M 5.7. This is an
unusual epicenter being about 100 km east of most of the activity in this region
of New Zealand. Unusual activity near 176E and east of that that tends to be confined
to northern North Island, New Zealand and is generally at intermediate dept. The
last such event felt widely in New Zealand was an M 5.9 on November 22, 2016. At
the time this summary noted:
"An M 5.4-5.6 aftershock also hit North Island near Hawke's Bay today which may have
been associated with the earthquake off Japan. This is not a classical aftershock
of the South Island earthquake a week ago. It was felt throughout the Hawke's
Bay area about 200 km northeast of Wellington. While tsunamis were not noted
or expected from this earthquake, seiche was observed in swimming pools in Porangahau Beach
according to multiple observations. A number of aftershocks were also recorded
by GeoNet. This appears to be an extension of the rupture of November 13-14 (M 7.9) to the northeast.
It was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses as it occurred within 5 minutes
of local solar noon, a prime time for tidal stresses in an area (see previous
reports) where tidal triggering of seismicity is common." (November 22, 2016, January 28, 2025)
O: 13JAN2026 10:21:32 40.6S 176.1E MB=4.9 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the Kuril Islands was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Kuril Islands in Severo-Kuril'sk, Russia.
O: 14JAN2026 03:08:58 50.8N 157.1E MB=5.1 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 20:17:03 49.9N 156.1E mb=4.2 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Pakistan at Upper Dir.
It occurred near local solar noon.
O: 13JAN2026 08:40:25 36.8N 71.3E MB=4.3 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-14 00:00 UT 17.2S 76.2E 85 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 85 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 104W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far noth as the Gulf of California.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 1W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 1W 2026-01-14 00:00 UT 9.3N 129.7E 40 kts East of Central Philippines
Tropical Depression 1W formed today in the area east of northern Mindanao, Philippines with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 9N 51W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 13, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9550 0730 0733 0738 B9.2 (January 13, 2026) 4.9E-04
Kuril Islands M 6.2 07:34 UT
Fiji M 4.6 07:38 UT
9560 0913 0954 1015 C1.9 (January 13, 2026) 6.2E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.4 09:39 UT M 4.9 09:54 UT
So. Peru M 3.1 09:47 UT
9570 1015 1018 1020 C1.8 (January 13, 2026) 8.8E-04
North Is. New Zealand M 4.9 10:21 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 10:25 UT
9580 1202 1213 1235 C1.5 (January 13, 2026) 2.8E-03
9600 1609 1619 1622 C1.3 (January 13, 2026) 1.2E-03
9610 1622 1648 1657 C2.4 (January 13, 2026) 4.4E-03
9620 1854 1903 1914 C1.4 (January 13, 2026) 1.7E-03
Molucca Sea M 4.9 18:58 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 14-15 quiet January 16, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 12, mid-latitude: 9, time of max AP: 11:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 49; Radio Flux: 117
A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:10 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 13, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong M 6.2 (EMSC) to Mb 7.0 (RSSC - the local Russian Seismic Network) occurred today in the southern Kuril Islands
east of Hokkaido, Japan. News reports indicated it was lightly felt in the
general remote epicentral area near Kuril'sk, Russia. The last earthquake of M>=6.2
within about 200 km of this epicenter occurred as an M 6.5 on December 28, 2023. At
the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.5 in the Kuril Islands. NEIC reported
that three people reported feeling this earthquake with intensity up to VI mainly in the northeastern parts of Sapporo, Japan and in Kuril'sk, Russia.
The last earthquake in the Kuril Islands within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred on February 13, 2020 and prior to that as an M 6.7 on May 25, 2001. A great earthquake
hit the area with M 8.3 on October 4, 1994 nearly 30 years ago. Strong aftershocks
continued through February 1997." (December 28, 2023)
"Today's event of M 7.0 in the Kuril Islands is the strongest quake recorded in the
Southern Kuril Islands in near seven years - since an M 7.2 on April 19, 2013 and prior to that an M 7.3 on November 17, 2002." (February 13, 2020, December 28, 2023)
Today's event continues the series of events in the Kuril Islands reported in the previous issue of this summary.
It is consistent with the forecast of January 4, 2026 for the next strong
earthquake in the series as reiterated in the previous issue as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai and the
eighth node (45 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:08 44.6N 149.3E MW=6.2 EMSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:07 45.3N 149.7E MB=7.0 RSSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
Less than six minutes before the earthquake in the southern Kurils an M 5.3 occurred
in northern Chile. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Calama, Antofagasta and II in Iquique, Tarapaca, Chile.
O: 13JAN2026 07:28:22 21.3S 68.9W MW=5.3 EMSC NORTHERN CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii at Holualoa and Kailua Kona.
An unusual M 5.6 occurred 21 minutes earlier in the region of Easter Island
in the South Pacific. These two epicenters are separated by about 66 degrees -
the distance an S-phase and ScS phase body wave would traverse in 21 minutes.
The earthquake in Hawaii may have been promoted from the M 5.6 in the South Pacific.
At the same time an EMP was reported to have occurred and caused disruption
to several nuclear submarine systems. This is unconfirmed but if it occurred
a strong EMP could promoted seismicity under the right enviromental circumstances.
The earthquake in the Easter Island area is the strongest within about 200
km of that epicenter since an M 5.9 on June 18, 2018.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.9 on the Southeast Pacific Rise.
It was followed by an aftershock of M 4.9. The mainshock occurred within minutes
of local solar midnight, a prime time for tidal stresses and was probably
promoted by these. This is the strongest quake within about 200 km of this
epicenter in the Easter Island region since an M 5.9 on May 10, 2012. The strongest
quake in the area since 1990 was an M 6.2 on September 17, 2009." (June 18, 2018)
The epicenter in the South Pacific is located at the third node (120 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole as well
Mindanao and Hokkaido, Japan and may hae been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 04:00:47 19.5N 155.8W MW=2.9 EMSC HAWAII
O: 13JAN2026 03:39:27 29.8S 111.9W MW=5.6 EMSC EASTER ISLAND REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in the Texas Panhandle was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Texas Panhandle in Amarillo.
This is an active area for light earthquakes and continues a series in the
area which began on January 10, 2026 with an M 2.8. The last earthquake
in the area of significantly larger magnitude was an M 3.4 on August 14, 2023.
O: 12JAN2026 21:41:54 35.3N 101.8W ML=2.6 EMSC TEXAS PANHANDLE REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in northern Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Mindanao, Philippines at Purok, Caraga.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in northern Mindanao at San Isidro, General Luna and Surigao City.
O: 12JAN2026 16:48:25 10.0N 126.1E MB=4.8 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei, Ilan, and Taichung Counties, Taiwan.
O: 12JAN2026 13:31:49 24.7N 122.1E MW=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-13 00:00 UT 17.2S 77.6E 100 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today as a major storm in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 100 kts. It is expected to track to the south and turning to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 103W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days. The Revillo Gigedo Island group will be antipodal to TC Dudzai around January 17. This active region could see further enhancement at that time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 12, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9440 1003 1015 1022 C5.2 (January 12, 2026) 4.0E-03
South Sandwich Is. M 4.7 10:02 UT
Kep. Kai, Indonesia M 4.1 10:09 UT
9470 1242 1247 1254 C1.4 (January 12, 2026) 1.1E-03
Costa Rica M 4.4 12:49 UT M 4.2 12:52 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 13 unsettled January 14 quiet January 15, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 18, high: 24, mid-latitude: 14, time of max AP: 09:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 52; Radio Flux: 113
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 12, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The geomagnetic storm which began late on January 10, 2026 (see previous issue for a summary)
continued today on January 11. A period of time from 18:00 to 22:00 UT was the
most intense with high latitude Kp reaching 6 for nine hour and Planetary
KP reaching 5.3 around 21:00 UT. Middle latitude Kps also were elevated, with the
daily Kp of 20. The last time the middle latitude Kp exceeded 20 was on December 4, 2025 with Kp 24.
Earthquakes of M 5.1 and M 5.6 in the Kuril Islands occurred during the height
of this geomagnetic storm and may have been triggered by it.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.6 in the southern Kuril Islands.
NEIC reported it was probably felt with intensity up to II in the area of Kuril'sk, Russia.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
It is consistent with the regional forecast for this area made in an earlier
issue of this forecast for this time which read:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This earthquake in the Kuril Islands also occurred during a strong M3.3 class
solar flare. This flare occurred on the solar rim and had a major Coronal
Mass Emission associated with it. The sunspot region will continue
to rotate reaching an area directly in the center of the sun as seen from
earth around January 20-21. A major flare at that time from this sunspot
group could trigger additional seismicity. This will occur with the new
moon of January 18 (UT) which will see areas of coastal California at
local solar noon at its completion. The combination could promote a moderate
to strong earthquake in the currently active region near San Ramon, California.
This summary will keep readers advised on this possibility. SWPC data for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9370 2153 2314 0031 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01
9370 2153 2314 0200 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
Southern Peru M 4.2 21:51 UT
San Francisco M 2.5 21:44 UT
Ryukyu Is. M 4.7 23:50 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 23:53 UT
Baja California M 4.0 23:54 UT
Fox Is. M 4.1 00:06 UT
Hokkaido M 4.8 00:50 UT M 4.1 00:48 UT M 4.3 00:58 UT
Argentina M 4.4 00:57 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
The M 5.6 epicenter in the Kuril Islands today is located at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from TC Dudzai and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Mindanao and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 12JAN2026 01:52:57 47.7N 147.4E MW=5.6 EMSC NORTHWEST OF KURIL ISLANDS
The earthquake of M 5.6 in the Kuril Islands was not alone among moderate earthquakes
today in the area from Hokkaido, Japan to Kamchatka. A series of such events
occurred with the flare and geomagnetic storm which coincided.
Other events occurred in northern Honshu, Japan (M 4.1); the southern Kurils
(M 4.7, 4.4); Hokkaido, Japan (M 4.8, 4.1, 4.3); northwest of the Kuril Islands (M 5.6);
the northern Kurils (M 4.9, 5.1, 4.2, 4.9 and 4.4); Kamchatka (M 4.9, 4.2, 4.6, 4.5, 5.0)
and in northern Kamchatka M 4.9, 4.4). These events show that the entire
subduction zone from northern Honshu through Kamchatka was activated
simultaneously - probably by the combination flare and geomagnetic storm.
That this happened piecemeal with approximiately 200 km between each
outburst without a corresponding strong to major
event is highly unusual and suggests that the locked segments between those
activated today are tightly locked may prevent a mega-thrust earthquake from happening
soon.
O: 12JAN2026 03:14:30 38.3N 141.8E ML=4.1 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
O: 11JAN2026 17:35:56 43.3N 147.9E MB=4.7 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 17:14:42 43.5N 147.1E mb=4.4 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 12JAN2026 00:50:16 45.1N 142.2E MB=4.8 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 12JAN2026 00:48:30 45.0N 142.2E ML=4.1 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 12JAN2026 00:58:30 45.0N 142.2E ML=4.3 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 12JAN2026 01:52:57 47.7N 147.4E MW=5.6 EMSC NORTHWEST OF KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 07:29:50 49.2N 156.0E MB=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 19:37:55 49.3N 156.1E mb=5.1 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 12JAN2026 03:46:50 49.3N 156.2E mb=4.2 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 18:27:50 49.5N 156.1E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 16:13:18 50.0N 156.9E mb=4.4 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 12JAN2026 05:00:42 51.9N 158.5E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 11JAN2026 19:16:29 51.3N 159.9E mb=4.2 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 11JAN2026 09:02:48 51.5N 160.1E mb=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 11JAN2026 10:38:06 51.7N 159.4E mb=4.5 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 12JAN2026 06:21:44 52.8N 159.3E MB=5.0 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported these earthquake were lightly felt in Russia at Yelizovo and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
O: 12JAN2026 05:04:07 56.0N 162.8E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 12JAN2026 05:35:22 55.6N 162.6E mb=4.4 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
Activation of seismicity was not limited to the Pacific Northwest quadrant. In the
U.S. and Mexico a series of earthquakes including an M 4.0 occurred near the
U.S./Mexico border in Baja California. These were closely associated with
the M3.3 solar flare as well as the day's geomagnetic storm and were
likely triggered by them. NEIC reported they were likely felt with intensity
up to II in the epicentral area near Maneadero, Baja California, Mexico.
These epicenters are at 60.0 degrees (node 6) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and from Kamchatka and at 102 degrees from Taiwan and were likely
promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 10:37:13 31.4N 115.6W ML=3.2 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 22:35:41 31.4N 115.2W ML=3.0 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 22:18:13 31.5N 115.7W ML=3.3 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 23:54:23 31.6N 115.8W ML=3.9 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 12JAN2026 05:02:06 31.6N 115.7W ML=3.1 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 08:12:51 32.8N 115.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Caliente, Frazier Park and II in Los Angeles, Tehachapi and Bakersfield.
This epicenter is located at 104 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 12JAN2026 07:02:46 35.1N 119.0W ML=3.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in eastern France near the Italy/Switzerland border occurred today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Rhone-alpes, France.
EMSC reported hard shaking in Courmayeur, Italy and in France at Les Contamines-Montjoie, La Bathie and in Troistorrents, and Les Avanchets, Switzerland.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this French epicenter
northwest of Turin, Italy since an M 4.5 on March 12, 2022. At the time this
summary noted:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.5 was widely felt in the French Alps today. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in France in the Rhone-Alpes at Pallud, Cesarches, Tournon, and II-III in Faverges, Plancherine, Queige, Saint-Jorioz, La Balme-de-Thuy, Annecy and Villaz.
A lightly felt aftershock of M 3.8 also occurred about 18 minutes after the mainshock
Several light foreshocks of M 2.4 and 2.1 occurred prior to the mainshock beginning
atou three hours earlier. The last earthquake of M>=4.4 occurred as an M 4.4
on October 24, 2016, but the last of larger magnitude was an M 4.7-4.8 on April 7, 2014." (March 12, 2022)
Like the earthquake in Central California (See above) this epicenter is located
at 104 degrees from Mindanao and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai and Taiwan
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 12JAN2026 06:28:50 45.9N 6.8E ML=4.2 NEIC FRANCE
O: 12JAN2026 06:28:50 45.9N 6.8E ML=3.6 EMSC FRANCE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hindu Kush, Afghanistan in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from TC Dudzai and the North Geomagnetic Pole
and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and Kamchatka and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 12JAN2026 03:18:16 36.5N 68.3E MB=4.2 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska in Chugiak.
O: 11JAN2026 23:37:21 61.7N 149.6W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco, California in Alameda, Antioch, Stockton and Brentwood.
This was likely triggered by the M3.3 solar flare today (see above).
O: 11JAN2026 21:44:25 38.0N 121.8W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines in Dumlan.
O: 11JAN2026 17:28:01 7.3N 126.3E MB=4.7 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California at Placerville.
O: 11JAN2026 17:23:11 39.5N 120.3W MD=2.5 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Western Iran was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Iran with IV in Iraq at al-Haritlah, al-Basrah; III in Abu al-Hasib and in Kuwait in Hawalli.
EMSC reported it was felt with strong shaking in Iraq at Al Harithah, Al Basrah al Qadimah, Basrah, Al Madinah and in Kuwait at Kuwait City, As Salimiyah, Hawalli, Al Mahbulah, Ad Diwaniyah, Kasnazan.
This is an unusual earthquake, the largest recorded within about 150 km of
this epicenter in at least 35 year. Most such regional events occur about 150 km
to the north and east of today's epicenter. The last of these was an M 5.1 on February 16, 2025
about 150 km to the north of today's epicenter on February 16, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Western Iran was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Iran at Ahwaz Khuzestan; II in Araq Markazi and possible in Kuwait.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Iran at Dorud County, Ilam, Esfahan.
A foreshock of M 4.4 was reported lightly felt in Iran in Dorud County and in Hamadan." (February 16, 2025)
The last earthquake of significantly larger magnitude in western Iran occurred
on December 5, 2024 with M 5.6 and was noted in this summary as:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.6 in Khuzestan, Iran. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V at Masjed Soleyman and Khurramabad, Lorestan withi IV felt in Ahwaz, Bandar-e Mah Shahr, Desful, Shushter, Khuzestan. It was also felt with intensity III in Kuwait at Salmiya, Abu Hulayfah, al-Manqaf, and Subhan Mubarak.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 5.0 in Iran was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Iran at Ahwaz, Khuzestan.
The mainshock was followed by aftershocks of M 4.9 and 5.0 - both of which were
felt in the same epicentral area. The last earthquake of M>=5.6 within about
250 km of today's epicenter was an M 5.7 on July 8, 2019. At the time this
summary noted:
"The second largest earthquake of the day was an M 5.7 in Western Iran. NEIC reported maximum intensity VII in Iran at Khuzestan and lesser shaking within abotu 200 km of the epicenter,
It was accompanied by several moderate aftershocks. The last earthquake within about
250 km of this epicenter with M>=5.7 was an M 6.2 and aftershocks on August 18, 2014." (July 8, 2019)
Today's unusual epicenter located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from
the North Geomagnetic Pole; the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 17:02:39 31.0N 48.1E MB=4.9 EMSC WESTERN IRAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Myanmar in Idia at Imphal, Dimapur, Bokajan, Lumding Railway Colony, Sibsagar, Tezpur,Naharlagun, Tinsukia, amd Guwahati.
O: 11JAN2026 20:15:40 24.8N 95.1E MB=4.5 EMSC MYANMAR
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-12 00:00 UT 16.6S 77.8E 125 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today as a major storm in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 125 kts. It is expected to track to the south and turning to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 103W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days. The Revillo Gigedo Island group will be antipodal to TC Dudzai around January 17. This active region could see further enhancement at that time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 11, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9270 1409 1418 1421 C3.0 (January 11, 2026) 9.7E-04
9370 2153 2314 0031 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01
Southern Peru M 4.2 21:51 UT
San Francisco M 2.5 21:44 UT
Ryukyu Is. M 4.7 23:50 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 23:53 UT
Baja California M 4.0 23:54 UT
Fox Is. M 4.1 00:06 UT
Hokkaido M 4.8 00:50 UT M 4.1 00:48 UT M 4.3 00:58 UT
Argentina M 4.4 00:57 UT
9370 2153 2314 0200 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
Kuril Is. M 5.6 01:53 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: Major storms January 12 active January 13-14, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 31, high: 46, mid-latitude: 20, time of max AP: 18:00 to 22:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 84; Radio Flux: 111
The geomagnetic storm which began late on January 10, 2026 (see previous issue for a summary)
continued today on January 11. A period of time from 18:00 to 22:00 UT was the
most intense with high latitude Kp reaching 6 for nine hour and Planetary
KP reaching 5.3 around 21:00 UT. Middle latitude Kps also were elevated, with the
daily Kp of 20. The last time the middle latitude Kp exceeded 20 was on December 4, 2025 with Kp 24.
Earthquakes of M 5.1 and M 5.6 in the Kuril Islands occurred during the height
of this geomagnetic storm and may have been triggered by it.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 11, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 14:00 UT when electron flux started
a steep increase. The A-index for the day of 32 is the highest A-value
since December 3, 2025 when it also reached 32-33. The storm reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 6.0 between 1800 and 2100 UT.
GOES magnetometers show a near doubling of field strenght at the start o
the major storm at about 20:00-20:15 UT. Longitudes most likely to
see a seismic increase are at local solar noon and include areas near
120 West, including much of California. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 6.6 on December 3, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances. Additional seismic enhancement is possible in
South America and the Caribbean with this storm.
Earthquakes in the San Ramon series in northern California east of San Francisco
showed a surge late on January 10 and early on January 11 (UT) with the
geomagnetic storm (see above). These included earthquakes up to M 3.0 which
NEIC reported were felt with intensity IV in Danville and San Ramon, California and III in Dublin with II in Livermore, Alamo, Menlo Park, Union City, Pleasanton, San Francisco.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in San Ramon, Blackhawk, Dublin.
These epicenters are located at 102 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines and
at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 04:10:25 37.8N 122.0W ML=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 11JAN2026 04:21:07 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 11JAN2026 06:01:59 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 11JAN2026 06:43:52 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.4 in the Talaud Islands of Indonesia.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Mindanao at Silway with III in Davao, and II in Buayan, Barra, Kinamayan, and IV in Manado, Sulawesi, Indonesia.
BMG (the local Indonesian network) reported this earthquake with M 7.1 was felt with maximum intensity VI in the Talaud Islands at Kararuan, Damau, Lirung, Melonguane, Salibabu, Kalonga, Pulutan, Moronge, Beo, Rainis, Essang, Gemeh. Lesser shaking was reported with intensity III in Kab. Sangihe, Siau, Halmahera, Morotai and II in Minahasa, Manado, Bitung, Ternate.
PHIVOLCS reported it with M 6.4 was felt in the Philippines with intensity II in Glan, Sarangani; Tupi, South Cotabato and lightly in Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani, Davao Occidental; Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarar; Cith of General Santos; Alabel, Malapatan, Maitum, Sarangani and Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.
This the strongest earthquake near the Talaud Islands within about 200
km of today's epicenter since an M 6.6 on April 9, 2024. At the time this
summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.6 in Talaud, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to IV in Tobelo, Indonesia.
PHIVOLCS reported this earthquake of M 6.5 in Talaud, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Saranagani, City of Davao at Malungon and Glan.
BMG reported intensity IV in Ibu, Halmahera, Barat, Maluu; III in Kat Sangihe, Talaud, Siau, Halmeahera, Pulau Morotai, Tidore and Ternate among others,
This is the strongest earthquake in the Molucca Sea and Talaud within about
200 km of this epicenter since an M 7.0 on January 18, 2023 and may be
an aftershock of that event. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 7.0-7.2 in the Molucca Sea, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in Mandao, Sulawesi and in Southern Mindanao, Philippines in General Santos City, Panabo, San Jose, Carpenter Hill, Rotonda and Davao.
PHIVOLCS reported it was felt with intensity II in Mindanao at Glan, Maaim and Malungon, Sarangani; Banga, City of Koronadal, Polomolok, Tampakan and Tupi, South Cotabato, City of General Santos, Kalamansig, Palimbang, and President Qirino, Sultan Kudarat and with
intensity I in Lake Sebu and Surallah, South Cotabato, Columbio, Sultan Kudarat.
While BMG did not expect a tsunami with this earthquake, PTWC suggested a minor tsunami is possible with this earthquake and tsunami warnings were made by BMG.
In Manado the capital of North Sulawesi and in Melonguane the quake was felt strongly and forced
many people to run from buildings. Residents reported feeling disoriented and dizzy in the area
of Gorontalo and that it lasted a long time. The earthquake was also felt in the Maluku Islands.
No major damage has been reported at this time. This earthquake occurred
at the end of a C3.0 class solar flare (see flare listing below) near local solar noon and may have
been promoted by tidal and/or SFE.
...
The last strong earthquake in the Molucca Sea occurred with M 6.3 on July 10, 2021." (January 18, 2023, April 9, 2024)
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar midnight as the strong geomagnetic
storm (see above) was beginning its sudden commencement. This was activity
which was considered possible with this storm as reported in the previous
issue of this summary:
"A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 13:00 UT and reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 4.33 about the same
time. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 5.0 on December 21, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances." (January 9-10, 2026)
These epicenters are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and
at the seventh node (52 degrees) from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:23 3.7N 127.0W ML=6.4 NEIC TALAUD ISLANDS, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:25 3.6N 127.0W ML=7.1 BMG TALAUD ISLANDS, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:21 3.4N 127.0W ML=6.4 PHIV EAST OF BALUT ISLAND, PHILIPPINES
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:26 3.7N 127.0E MW=6.5 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 15:15:15 3.7N 127.0E mb=5.2 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 19:40:52 3.7N 127.1E ML=4.0 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
An earthquake of M 3.8 shook Azerbaijan three minutes before the Talaud earthquake.
This is not enough time for seismic wave interaction but both may have
been triggered by the start of today's geomagnetic storm.
This epicenter is located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Dudzai and from
Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 14:55:50 40.7N 48.6E MB=3.8 EMSC AZERBAIJAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in northeastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northeastern Honshu, Japan in Yamoto, Miyagi and Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.
This epicenter is at the sevent node (51 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and at 103 degrees from the South Geomagnetic pole and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 04:15:37 39.6N 141.7E MB=5.2 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 off the west coast of Lebanon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Lebanon with III in Jabal Lubnan at B'abda, Juniyah and Beirut.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Lebanon at Ra's Bayrut, Beirut, Baabda. Jdaidet el Matn, Sidon, Jounieh among others.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and was likely
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is located near the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North
Geomagnetic Pole and from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 21:50:20 34.0N 34.8E MC=3.4 EMSC CYPRUS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Northern Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Mindanao, Philippines in Sapao, Caraga.
EMSC reported light shaking in General Luna and Siargao.
This epicenter is located near the seventh node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka
and from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 14:29:18 10.1N 126.0E MB=4.4 EMSC LEYTE, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California at Hemet, Idyllwild, Menifee, Winchester, Palm Springs, Beaumont.
O: 10JAN2026 12:48:41 33.7N 116.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Southern Idaho was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Idaho at Lowman.
O: 10JAN2026 11:31:23 44.4N 115.0W ML=2.6 EMSC SOUTHERN IDAHO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California at Redding.
O: 10JAN2026 11:08:44 40.8N 122.5W MD=2.6 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 south of Bali, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of south of Bali, Indonesia with III in Kuta and Denpasar.
EMSC reported a quick tremor in Bali at Pecatu, Kangin, Jimbaran, Bualu, Kelanabian, Nusa Dua, Jabajero, Kuta, Legian, Banjar Gunungpande, Denpasar, Banjar Medura, Banjar Kertajiwa, Klumbu, Banjar Pegeringsingan, and Banjar Kedisan.
O: 10JAN2026 09:34:05 9.2S 114.7E MB=4.4 EMSC SOUTH OF BALI, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in the Texas Panhandle was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Texas Panhandle at Amarillo and Clerendon.
O: 10JAN2026 08:33:59 35.3N 101.7W ML=2.8 EMSC TEXAS PANHANDLE REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Petropavlovsk,- Kamchatsky with intensity up to IV.
O: 10JAN2026 14:38:06 52.9N 160.7E MB=5.1 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 10JAN2026 15:34:09 51.6N 158.6E mb=5.1 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 10JAN2026 11:31:09 52.8N 160.9E Mw=5.3 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 10JAN2026 07:57:46 52.9N 160.9E Mw=5.5 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Southern Peru was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Peru in Mollendo, Ciudad Satelite, Arequipa.
O: 10JAN2026 19:44:27 17.1S 72.0W ML=4.0 EMSC NEAR COAST OF SOUTHERN PERU
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE KOJI (13P)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC KOJI 2026-01-11 00:00 UT 20.1S 147.7E 45 kts North of Eastern Australia
Tropical cyclone Koji (13P) continued north of eastern Australia today. This system is currently located at 20S 148E with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the south today and to make landfall in Australia on January 11, 2026. The antipode is at 20N 32W off North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean and is not a seismic region.
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-11 00:00 UT 15.0S 77.0E 70 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai formed today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the southeast over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 15N 103W is south of Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity on the East Pacific Rise in this area has been known to be affected by Indian Ocean Cyclones. Watch for enhanced seismicity and western Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 10, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8960 0804 0814 0817 C1.1 (January 10, 2025) 5.6E-04
Kuril Is. M 5.0 08:05 UT
Kamchatka M 5.5 07:58 UT
Greece M 3.9 08:15 UT
9050 1753 1807 1816 C1.0 (January 10, 2025) 1.2E-03
Jan Mayen M 4.5 18:00 UT
Gulf of California M 4.4 18:25 UT
9070 1848 1854 1857 C1.1 (January 10, 2025) 5.1E-04
9100 1931 1942 2000 C2.1 (January 10, 2025) 2.5E-03
Southern Peru M 4.0 19:44 UT
Talaud M 4.0 19:40 UT
9110 2001 2014 2024 C3.8 (January 10, 2025) 3.8E-03
9130 2208 2232 2252 C2.0 (January 10, 2025) 4.6E-03
Western Texas M 2.5 22:08 UT
Guerrero M 4.1 22:19 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: Minor storms January 11 active January 12-13, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 32, high: 40, mid-latitude: 15, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 65; Radio Flux: 114
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 14:00 UT when electron flux started
a steep increase. The A-index for the day of 32 is the highest A-value
since December 3, 2025 when it also reached 32-33. The storm reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 6.0 between 1800 and 2100 UT.
GOES magnetometers show a near doubling of field strenght at the start o
the major storm at about 20:00-20:15 UT. Longitudes most likely to
see a seismic increase are at local solar noon and include areas near
120 West, including much of California. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 6.6 on December 3, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances. Additional seismic enhancement is possible in
South America and the Caribbean with this storm.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 10, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 13:00 UT and reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 4.33 about the same
time. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 5.0 on December 21, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Petropavlovsk,- Kamchatsky with intensity up to IV.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Jenna and at
the seventh node from Mindanao, Philippines and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 07:57:45 52.8N 161.0E MB=5.5 EMSC KAMCHATKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the Ionian Sea, Italy was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Ionian Sea, Italy in Sicily, Italy at Syracuse, Catania, Montagnareale, Francavilla di Sicilia and in Malta at Sliema, Qrendi, Dingli, San Giljan, Melliena and Msida.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate to strong intensity in Italy at Ferruzzano, Locri, Pellaro, Terreti, Reggio Calabria, Bagnara Calabra, Sambatello, Villa San Giovanni, Faro Superiore, Messina, Taormina, Rombiolo, Gaggi, Vibo Valentia, Giardini Naxos, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto and others and in Malta at Sliema, Swieqi, San Giljan Sprachcaffe, Marsaskala among others.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=5.1 occurred
on December 17, 2009 at a depth of 257 km and was lightly felt on the surface.
Today's M 5.1 is the strongest shallow focus earthquake in this area
in at least 35 years.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines; the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Hokkaido and TC Jenna and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 04:53:12 37.9N 16.3E MB=5.1 EMSC IONIAN SEA, ITALY
Sixteen seconds later an M 4.6 occurred in Greece. EMSC reported it was felt with moderate intensity
in Greece at Lamia, Kainouryion, Amfissa, Karditsa, Volos, Mitropoli, Nafpaktos, Agrino, Patra.
The simultaneity of the event with the earthquake in the Ionian Sea could not
have been produced by seismic waves, as they did not have time to travel
this distance. That leaves possible external stresses triggering both
or coincidence.
O: 10JAN2026 04:53:28 39.0N 22.4E ML=4.6 EMSC GREECE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Maurtius-Reunion region was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mauritius-Reunion region with light intensity.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since
an M 5.6 on January 5, 2013. At the time this summary noted:
"The earthquake of M 5.1-5.2 in the Reunion and Mauritius region of the South
Indian Ocean was the largest event in the world today outside of southeastern
Alaska. Moderate activity in the region has been confined over the past five years to
to an epicenter about 300 km to the northeast of today's event. The earthquake
today is the strongest within 200 km of this epicenter ioccurred four years
ago on December 2, 2009 with M 5.3. The last of significantly larger magnitude
was an M 6.5 on April 16, 2006. Like the earthquake in Hawaii it is likely
that this event may have been immediately triggered by movement of magma
into cracks and crevasses in the volcanic region of La Reunion by passing
waves from the great Alaskan earthquake. The Reunion epicenter is located
at 142-144 degrees from the Alaskan and Queen Charlotte Islands epicenters.
After reflecting and refracting off core boundaries seismic waves are concentrated
on the surface in this distance zone from strong earthquakes. This concentration
of energy has been considered a possible triggering agent as seismicity in this
distance zone often increases following major earthquakes. A second such
distance range is around 103 degrees from major shocks. Earthquakes of M 4.1
in Flores, Indonesia and Chile of M 4.9 occurred in this distance range from
Alaska today. It is also likely stresses
resulting in this earthquake were acquired from the passage of a
strong tropical cyclone through the area over the past several days. This
is emphasized by a second earthquake on the path about 500 km to the north
of Reunion of M 4.8 today. In our summary yesterday it was emphasized that
this storm - Dumile - could trigger seismicity in the area at this time. That
summary stated:
"TC Dumile (07-S) continued today east of Madagascar in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 85 kts. It is
expected to travel along the east coast of Madagascar over the next week. There is some
chance for seismicity in the La Reunion area as the eye of this storm will
pass over this island today (January 3-4, 2013) or along Madagascar over the
course of this storm. A volcanic episode at La Reunion could occur in association
with this storm." (January 4-5, 2013)
This appears to be a continuation of seismicity related to Tropical Cyclone
Grant which passed north of this epicenter several days ago. Previously
an M 5.5 occurred in the Rodrigues area and was reported in this summary as:
"A moderate M 5.4 occurred today in the Rodrigues Islands, Mauritius north of Reunion in the
South Indian Ocean. NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity
up to IV in the area near Port Mathurin, Mauritius.
The last earthquake of M>=5.4 within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred more than 35 years ago. Regional seismicity generally
occurs about 200 km east of today's epicenter and to the south. An M 5.5
about 250 km to the east of today's event occurred on June 7, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.5 also occurred today near Reunion in the South Indian Ocean. It was followed
by several moderate regional aftershocks. It was preceded by an M 4.5 foreshock
slightly to the north of the mainquake. This mainshock occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic
stresses which seismic effects are maximized near this hour. At the same time the first named Tropical
Storm of the season formed in the area south of Michoacan, Mexico (Cosme). TS Barbara was also forming in the
area near Michoacan at the time.
...
This earthquake in the South Indian Ocean may also have been promoted by a C1.3
class solar flare (#8860)...." (June 7, 2025)
Tropical Cyclone Grant passed near this epicenter in the past several days
as noted in previous issues of this summary and may have promoted this earthquake.
On January 4 this summary noted this possibility as:
"TC GRANT 2026-01-03 00:00 UT 15.0S 64.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 45 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely as TC Grant passes to the north in the next two days. ..." (January 4-5, 2026)
In addition to promotion from TC Grant this epicenter is also at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Taiwan and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 10:09:26 19.1S 64.0E MW=5.4 EMSC RODRIGUES REGION, MAURITIUS " (January 6, 2026)
O: 10JAN2026 03:22:28 19.9S 66.3E MW=5.5 EMSC MAURITIUS-REUNION AREA
Unfelt earthquakes of M 5.6 also occurred today in the area of the Fiji
Islands and in northern Vanuatu. These events occurred near local solar noon
and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses.
The M 5.6 in Vanuatu is located at the fifth node from TC Jenna; at 102 degrees
from TC Grant and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09JAN2026 23:19:35 13.7S 166.6E MW=5.6 EMSC VANUATU
The earthquake in the Fiji Islands is located at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 10JAN2026 00:06:02 26.3S 177.5W MW=5.6 EMSC SOUTH OF FIJI ISLANDS
NEIC reported earthquake of M 2.9, 2.8 and 2.6 in the San Francisco, California east Bay aea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the San Francisco, California east Bay area were widely felt with intensity IV in Danville and III in San Ramon, Castro Valley, Hayward, Dublin, and II in Burlingame, San Francisco and Walnut Creek.
EMSC reported light shaking in San Ramon, Hayward and Mission District, California.
These continue the current series in the eastern San Francisco Bay area which
may be precursory to a larger regional event associated with a major solar
flare near local solar noon or midnight.
O: 10JAN2026 01:54:35 38.0N 122.2W MD=2.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 16:14:09 37.8N 121.9W ML=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 16:16:41 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 16:18:31 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 17:58:04 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 18:06:56 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in east-central South Dakota was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of east-central South Dakota.
Earthquakes in this area have occasionally preceded larger global earthquakes
especially along the Western North American boundary and to a lesser extent
in the western Pacific Ring of Fire.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Taiwan and 146 degrees from TC Grant
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09JAN2026 12:35:12 44.0N 97.8W MW=2.8 EMSC SOUTH DAKOTA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Peru at El Carmen.
This epicenter is at the fourth node from Yukon, Canada; the third node from Kamchatka and 144
degrees from TC Jenna and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09JAN2026 17:08:50 13.3S 73.3W MB=4.6 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in the Dodecanese Islands was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Dodecanes Islands at Fethiye, Dalaman, Ortaca, and Acipayam, Turkey.
O: 10JAN2026 02:55:01 36.4N 28.7E MW=4.1 EMSC DODECANESE IS.-TURKEY BORDER R
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Luzon, Philippines was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Luzon, Philippines with strong shaking in Santa Cruz and milder intensity in Payocpoc Sur, Baguio.
O: 09JAN2026 16:00:18 16.1N 119.8E MB=4.7 EMSC LUZON, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in SE Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Tokyo, Kamagaya, Komae, Toda, Nishitokyo.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from TC Jenna and the fourth
node (90 degrees) from TC Grant and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 09JAN2026 11:07:58 35.3N 140.5E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAP
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE KOJI (13P)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC KOJI 2026-01-10 00:00 UT 17.9S 148.0E 55 kts North of Eastern Australia
Tropical cyclone Koji (13P) formed north of eastern Australia today. This system is currently located at 17S 148E with winds up to 55 kts. It is expected to track to the west and north today. The antipode is at 17N 32W off North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean and is not a seismic region.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the South Indian Ocean. This system is currently located at 13S 76E and moving to the south with winds up to 33 kts. Regional seismic enhancement is possible at this time. The antipode at 13N 104W is south of Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity on the East Pacific Rise in this area has been known to be affected by Indian Ocean Cyclones. Watch for enhanced seismicity as far north as the Revillo Gigedo Islands and western Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 9, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8820 1115 1128 1134 C3.4 (January 9, 2026) 2.3E-03
Eastern Honshu, M 4.4 11:24 UT M 4.0 11:35 UT
8860 1409 1422 1434 C1.2 (January 9, 2026) 1.6E-03
8870 1729 1748 1805 C1.0 (January 9, 2026) 2.0E-03
Minahasa M 4.4 17:38 UT
San Francisco M 2.1 17:58 UT
8900 2230 2242 2300 C1.2 (January 9, 2026) 2.0E-03
Guerrero M 3.4, 3.4 22:32 UT 22:35 UT
Vanuatu M 5.6 23:19 UT
Kenai Alaska, M 3.2 22:30 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: Minor storms January 10-11 active January 12, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 12, high: 12, mid-latitude: 9, time of max AP: 02:00 UT; Max AP: 3; Sunspot Number: 80; Radio Flux: 117
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 13:00 UT and reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 4.33 about the same
time. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 5.0 on December 21, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 9, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate earthquake of M 5.4 occurred in North Island, New Zealand today.
NEIC reported this event with M 5.0 was felt with intensity III in New Zealand
at Wellington, Porirua, Kapiti, Nelson, Palmerston, New Plymouth, Lower Hutt, Makara-Ohariu, Richmond, Tasman, Urenui, Levin and II in Wanganui, Taupo, Patea, Ypper Hutt, Carterton, and Te Kuiti, Waikato.
The last earthquake within North Island, New Zealand within about 150 km of
this epicenter with M>=5.4 occurred on February 15, 2023 with M 5.7. At the
time this summary noted:
"The M 5.7-6.3 in the Cook Strait, New Zealand was reported by NEIC to have been felt with maximum intensity VI in Foxton, V in Porirua, Makara-Ohariu, Kapiti, Wellington with IV in Levin, Upper Hutt, Wanganui, Lower Hutt, Palmerston North among many other communities.
This earthquake may have been promoted by effects of Cyclone Gabrielle which
hit the Kermadec Islands of northern New Zealand the remainder of New
Zealand in the past several days. That storm wrecked havoc on North Island
this week. New Zealand declared a National State of Emergency today. This
is only the third time this has happened in New Zealand history. At least four
have been declared dead and 1400 missing through the effects of TC Gabrielle
which included 80-100 mph winds and 6-12 inches of rain through North Island.
Travel was difficult or impossible throughout North Island and internet and cell
phone service were out when the cyclone damaged a fiber optic cable.
No tsunami was immediately observed or expected with today's earthquake.
Today's event in New Zealand occurred at the beginning of solar Flare 9620
and may have been promoted by SFE associated with that flare. SWPC parameters
for this flare follow:
Today's earthquake in the Cook Strait is the strongest in this region south
of Wellington, New Zealand since an M 6,2 on January 20, 2014 about 150 km
east of today's epicenter. Earthquakes about 150 km to the south of this
occurred with M 6.4-6.5 in South Island on July 21 and August 16, 2013, the
only such events in the region of Cook Strait in the past 35 years." (February 15, 2023)
GeoNet reported the following parameters for this event:
O: 08JAN2026 19:29:37 39.8S 174.5E MB=5.4 GEONET Felt with moderate to strong intensity in the area of Southern North Island, New Zealand and northern South Island. 14077 reports of felt events were made of which 7426 reported weak and 5702 light intensity with 880 reports of moderate shaking and 51 with strong and 5 severe and 12 with extreme intensity came from the area.
Today's epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from TC Jenna and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08JAN2026 10:20:15 37.8S 176.3E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
P: 02JAN2026 178632 37.0S 178.0E 3.0-4.6 CABAA North Island, N.Z.
P: 07JAN2026 178632 39.0S 176.0E 3.0-4.6 ABAAA North Island, N.Z.
O: 08JAN2026 19:29:36 39.8S 174.5E MW=5.0 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
O: 08JAN2026 19:29:36 39.8S 174.5E MW=5.4 GEONET NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
Two moderate earthquake of M 5.3 were felt widely near Tajikistan today. NEIC reported these were felt with intensity III in Os, Kyrgyzstan and II in Quva Farg'ona, Uzbekistan and in Pakistan at Baffa, Northwest Frontier and Islamabad.
EMSC reported they were felt with moderate intensity in Osh, Barken, Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan; Roghun, Tajikistan, Fergana, Qo'qon, Chortoq, Uchko'prik, Uchqurghon Shahri, To'rqao'rg'on, Kirguli, Toshloq, Oltiariq, Rishton, Uzbekistan, Kashgar, China, among others.
The last earthquakes within about 150 km of these epicenters with M>=5.3 occurred
with M 5.3 on November 13, 2023 - an aftershock of an M 6.8 on February 23, 2023.
Today's activity in Tajikistan is also likely aftershocks of that event.
At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"A strong to major earthquake of M 6.8-7.2 hit the area of Tajikistan and Pakistan today. NEIC reported maximum intensity VIII with damage in Tajikistan at Murgob and II-III in Os, and Dushanbe. Intensity IV was felt in North-west Frontier, Pakistan in Mardan and Risalpur with lesser shaking in Hunza, Gilgit, Abottabad and in Uzbekistan at Quva.
While no major damage was immediately reported from this remote area, many local
residents in Badakhstan woke during the quake and rushed outside. The mainshock
was also felt wide in western Xinjiang, China including at Kashgar and Artux accorrding
to Chinese state television. CENC reported the earthquake with M 7.2 (epicenter 38.0N 73.3E).
A series of moderate aftershocks of M 4.5-5.2 followed the mainshock. There was some concern that a large lake (Sarez) could flood a vast area
spanning several countries if disturbed by this earthquake.
Internet photos showed cracked pavement and damage to buildings.
...
moon and was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses from that alignment.
Today's event in Tajikistan is the strongest within about 300 km of this
epicenter since an M 7.2 about 50 km northwest of today's epicenter on December 7, 2015 -
the only such event in the region in at least 35 years. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
"A major earthquake of M 7.2 hit the region of Tajikistan on December 7, 2015.
It was felt widely with moderate intensity in the countries of Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, China, India, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
Areas reporting moderate shaking of II-IV in Tajikistan included Dushanbe and Sughd;
in Uzbekistan at Navoiy and Tashkent; in Afghanistan at Kabul, Kapisa and Nangarhar;
in India at Delhi, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh;
in Xinjiang, China; Almaty, Kazakhstan; Biskek, Os, and Celalabad, Kyrgyzstan and in
Pakistan in the Federal Capital area, Northwest Frontier, and Punjab.
A series of regional aftershocks followed including an M 5.5 in Kyrgyzstan. An M 5.6
in Coquimbo, Chile a minute after the Tajikistan quake is probably coincidental
but global stresses may have helped trigger both at the same time. A major promoter of this earthquake was probably the M 7.5 in Hindu Kush of
October 26, 2015, the strongest in that region since an M 7.3 on March 3, 2002.
This epicenter is about 400 km from the current event. There have been no earthquakes
of M>=7.2 in an area within about 300 km of this epicenter in at least 25 years.
Major earthquakes within this area have occurred in the past century however.
The last was an M 7.1-7.4 on August 23, 1985. Others occurred on August 11, 1974 (M 7.3);
April 15, 1955 (M 7.2); February 18, 1911 (M 7.4-7.8) and August 22, 1902 (M 8.2).
The earthquake in 1985 was deadly and preceded the great Mexico City earthquake
of September, 1985 by less than a month. This summary's history noted on August 23
reported in regard to this event in 1985:
"At least 71 killed, 162 injured. About 85% of buildings were destroyed in the
Wuqia and Shufu area left up to 15,000 homeless. Highways were cracked nd
sandblows occurred in Wuqia County. Damage occurred at Kashi. Also felt in the USSR,
Rawalpindi, Islamabad and Peshaway, Pakistan." (August 23, 2015, December 8, 2015, February 23, 2023)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and TC Jenna and
at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Honshu and was probably promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 16:59:57 37.4N 74.7E MB=5.3 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
O: 08JAN2026 21:14:16 38.3N 73.3E MW=5.3 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
O: 08JAN2026 19:08:36 38.4N 73.9E mb=4.6 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Morocco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Morocco in Malaga, Spain in Ojen, Malaga, Fuengirola.
EMSC reported it was lightly felt in Gibraltar as well as in Spain at Fuengirola, Alhaurin de la Torre, Malaga, Torrox and in Kenitra, Morocco.
Today's event is located near the antipode of the M 5.4 in North Island, New
Zealand today (see above) and may have been associated with antipodally focused
energy from that source and an M 4.4 in North Island, New Zealand earlier in the day. This is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in
the Strait of Gibraltar since an M 4.4 on December 5, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
O: 08JAN2026 10:20:15 37.8S 176.3E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Strait of Gibraltar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Strait of Gibraltar in Malaga, Spain at Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Rincon de la Victoria.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Spain at Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Mijas, Torremolinos, Alhaurin de la Torre, Marbella, Malaga, Casarabonela, Rincon de la Victoria, Benahavis, Torre del Mar, Benamocarra, Velez-Malaga, Vinuela, Manilava, Albarrobo among others." (December 5, 2025.
The last earthquake in this area of M>4.4 was an M 5.2 on January 7, 2023
three years ago. At that time it was reported in this summary:
"An earthquake of M 5.2 near antipode of the M 5.5 in Auckland, New Zealand of
January 3, 2023 occurred today in Morocco. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Taza, Morocco. EMSC
reported moderate shaking in Morocco at Bni Bouayach, Imzouren, Al Hoceima, El Arba de Trougout, Ajdir, Driouch, En Nador, Taza, Bni Chiker and Selouane among other communities. This
is near the longitude of maximum tidal stress with today's full moon and
is consistent with tidal triggering from that tidal alignment. Today's
earthquake is the strongest in the region of the Strait of Gibraltar or Morocco
since an M 4.9 north of this on October 4, 2022 and an M 5.5 on May 20, 2022.
At the time of the October event, this summary noted:
"An unusually large M 4.9 occurred in the Strait of Gibraltar today. This area
has been active at lower magnitudes for several weeks. The only earthquake
near this epicenter in the past two years with M>=4.9 occurred on August 28, 2021 (M 5.1)
and an M 4.9 on June 2, 2022. At the time of the event in August 2021 this summary noted
in this regard:
"An earthquake of M 5.1-5.3 also occurred today in the Strait of Gibraltar. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity V in Ceuta, Spain, IV in Benamccarra, Velez-Malaga and Melila, Spain and II-III in Spain at Torremolinos and Granada and in Gibraltar and in Morocco at Al Hoceima and Inzouren.
This area became active in January, 2016 with a maximum sized event of M 6.3 on
January 25, 2016. Today's M 5.3 is the strongest aftershock in the region
since an M 5.6 on March 15, 2016" (August 29, 2021, October 4, 2022, January 7, 2023)
Today's epicenter is located at 102-104 degrees from Taiwan and TC Jenna and
at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources. It is also about 200 km from the exact antipode
of an M 4.4 in North Island, New Zealand that occurred about 7 hours earlier.
O: 08JAN2026 17:32:06 35.8N 4.6W MB=4.4 EMSC STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR
O: 08JAN2026 10:20:15 37.8S 176.3E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.1 and M 3.1 in Louisiana were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Louisiana with III in Coushatta,Shreveport, Mansfield, and II in Ringgold and in Natchez, Mississippi and Texarkana, Texas.
The second of these may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 8600 (C2.7)
which began simultaneously with the earthquake and with an M 4.3 in Gansu, China. Data on this flare from
SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8600 1600 1609 1611 C2.7 (January 8, 2025) 1.2E-03
Louisiana M 3.1 16:01 UT
Gansu, China M 4.3 16:01 UT
The last earthquake in Louisiana within about 150 km of this epicenter was an
M 3.2 on August 22, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"Unusual earthquakes of M 3.0 and M 2.6 were felt along the Texas-Louisiana border today shortly
before the M 7.5 in the Drake Passage. NEIC reported intensity III in Center, San Augustine, Shelbyville, Texas and II in Kilgore, Tyler Texas.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter since
a series of earthquakes hit about 100 km north of this in Louisiana in December
2024 and January, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 3.5 was widely felt today in the area of Texas and Louisiana. NEIC reported maximum
shaking of V at Allen Texas with IV in Louisiana at Mooringsport, Shreveport and Barksdale, AFB. Intensity II was felt in Bossier City, and in Texas at Karnack, Kilgore, with lesser shaking in Louisiana at Belcher, Benton, Greenwood, Bossier City an Stephens, Arkansas.
Along with a similar M 3.5 on January 27, 2024 this is the largest earthquake
in the region of Louisiana within about 100 km of today's epicenter in at least
35 years. A series of earthquakes of M 3.0 and M 3.1 began in this area on December
19, 2024 ..." (January 18, 2025, August 22, 2025)
The current series in Lousiana began with an M 3.9 and M 4.8 on May 10 and 17, 2012
after no such earthquake in the period between 1994 and 2012.
These epicenters area located at the fifth node from Kamchatka and the fourth node
from Hokkaido, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 16:01:36 32.1N 93.4W ML=3.1 EMSC LOUISIANA
O: 08JAN2026 15:06:38 32.1N 93.3W ML=3.1 EMSC LOUISIANA
An earthquake of M 4.2 occurred at local solar midnight in the Geysers area
of Northern California north of San Francisco today.
This event was discussed in the previous issue of this summary in part as:
"An earthquake of M 4.2 shook regions of northern California in the Geysers area
north of San Francisco today. NEIC reported it was widely felt with intensity up to V in California at Nice;
IV in Middletown; III in Cloverdale, Geyserville, Penngrove, Kelseyville, Calistoga, Clearlake Oaks, Lakeport, Healdsburg and II in Forestville, Petaluma, Ukiah, Clearlake, Saratoga, Fairfield, Napa, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Saint Helena, Cotati, and Yorkville.
This earthquake occurred within several minutes of local solar midnight and
was probably promoted by tidal stresses which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake of M>=4.2 within about 50 km of this epicenter in the
California Geysers area occurred as an M 4.7 on January 2, 2025 more than
a year ago.
...
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Jenna; the seventh
node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka and 101 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (January 8, 2026)
Triggering within minutes of local solar midnight and local solar noon often indicates high levels of regional stress
and can precede stronger regional events.
O: 08JAN2026 08:00:21 38.8N 122.9W ML=4.2 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Argentina in San Juan, Mendoza and Cordoba.
O: 08JAN2026 14:14:57 31.3S 67.5W MB=5.2 EMSC SAN JUAN, ARGENTINA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay, Sagaing, Pyin Oo Lwin, Meiktila and Nyaungshwe with an earthquake noise.
O: 08JAN2026 14:56:35 21.9N 96.1E ML=4.5 EMSC MYANMAR
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in Assam, India was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Assam, India in Dispur, Guwahati, Palasbari, Nongpoh, Meghalaya, and in Pemagatshel, Bhutan.
This epicenter is located at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japand an TC Jenna
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 13:00:47 26.7N 92.3E ML=3.9 EMSC ASSAM, INDIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE JENNA (12S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC JENNA 2026-01-09 00:00 UT 18.2S 90.3E 55 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 18N 90W - an area of northern Guatemala. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. TC Jenna is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to northern Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area in the next two days.
A tropical cyclone may be forming north of eastern Australia. This system is currently located at 14S 148E with winds up to 37 kts. It is expected to track to the west and north today. The antipode is at 14N 33W off North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean and is not a seismic region.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 8, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8470 0133 0139 0145 C1.2 (January 8, 2025) 8.9E-04
Central Mediterranean M 4.7 01:50 UT
8490 0215 0227 0242 C2.3 (January 8, 2025) 3.3E-03
8500 0442 0446 0448 C1.5 (January 8, 2025) 5.9E-04
Minahasa M 4.0 04:41 UT
Guyana M 4.5 05:06 UT
8510 0524 0542 0549 C4.4 (January 8, 2025) 3.9E-03
Ecuador M 5.5 05:18 UT
8540 0825 0833 0835 C1.3 (January 8, 2025) 8.0E-04
Hokkaido M 4.4 08:28 UT
8600 1600 1609 1611 C2.7 (January 8, 2025) 1.2E-03
Louisiana M 3.1 16:01 UT
Gansu, China M 4.3 16:01 UT
8630 1618 1730 1846 C5.6 (January 8, 2025) 3.5E-02
8680 1945 1956 2007 C3.4 (January 8, 2025) 4.2E-03
Aru, Indonesia M 4.1 20:03 UT
North Is. New Zealand, M 5.0 19:30 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 9 active January 10 unsettled January 11, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 14, high: 15, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 4; Sunspot Number: 96; Radio Flux: 140
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
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