September 12, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon arrived on September 11, 2026 at 03:27 UT. Areas which are anti-solar (local solar midnight) are near 52 W and those sub-solar at this time are near 127 E longitudes. In the west these include areas of the Atlantic Ocean including Iceland and eastern Caribbean while in the east much of the area from Kamchatka south to Japan and portions of Eastern New Guinea, Mindanao, Philippines, central Indonesia, Taiwan, Macquarie and New South Wales, Australia are near these longitudes and may see enhanced seismicity in the next week. A moderately strong earthquake is possible after the current geomagnetic storm ceases in this area during this time. Other areas may also see tidal triggering which is most likely near local solar midnight and local solar noon." (June 12-14, 2026)
A moderate excursion in the geomagnetic field strength was recorded on
September 11 starting about 14:57 UT. An arcjet manevuer corrected the
satellite position and normal operations resumed about 16:00 UT.
An earthquake of M 2.3 occurred at the start of this geomagnetic excursion
in the area of Greater Los Angeles, California with M 2.3. It was followed two minutes later
by an M 2.1 in Utah and an M 3.1 near local solar midnight in Mindanao, Philippines and at 15:44 by and M 5.1 south of the Kermadec Islands.
These events may have been promoted by this geomagnetic excursion.
O: 11SEP2026 14:57:27 33.9N 118.3W ML=2.3 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
O: 11SEP2026 14:59:51 37.4N 113.5W ML=2.1 EMSC UTAH
O: 11SEP2026 15:51:39 5.2N 125.4E ML=4.0 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
The GFZ Hp30 index was mostly at quiet levels today occasionally reaching
its highest valur of 3.66 around 05:00-05:30 UT on September 11. The geomagnetic storm is over and
elevated seismicity is expected in the next several
days as electrons reform ionospheric ring currents which can induce
telluric currents and probably help promote seismicity in many areas.
A minor proton storm began around 18:00 UT on September 11 and peaked about 21:30 UT.
An earthquake of M 6.5 in Southern Sumatra - the strongest earthquake in the
world since an M 7.5 in Colombia a month ago on August 10, 2025 - occurred at the peak of this storm and
may have been promoted by energy associated with it.
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.5 earthquake at 310 km
depth beneath Southern Sumatra Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II-III in Java at Cikeruh, Sukabumi, Jakarta, Bogor, Malang, Lembang, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Palembang, Sumatra, and Pamulang.
EMSC reported light to moderate shaking in Java at Jakarta, Bogor, Cianjur, Kebontiwu, Biha, Ilir Barat, Palembang, Karangbadar Kidul, Kebumen, Pule, Kediri, Padang, Tabing and in Singapore neary 800 km from the epicenter.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Java with M>=6.5
occurred as an M 6.6 at a deep focus of 614 km ten years ago on October 19, 2015.
The only other such event in the area in the past 35 years was an M 7.4 at 280 km depth on
August 8, 2007. In 2016 this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.6 south of Java, Indonesia. This
continues the series of large quakes in New Guinea moving westward through Indonesia.
Today's event was at a deep focus and was therefore widely felt with light intensity
over a very broad area. In Java, Indonesia it was felt with intensity II-III in Bekasi, Jakarta, Pamulang, Padalarang, Bandung, Bogor, and Surabaya; in Yogyakarta at Depok and Kashian; in Bali at Tabanan, Kuta, Denpasar.
BMG, the local seismic network, reported it was felt with intensity II-III in Jakarta, Padang, Malimping, Sanglah, Pacitan Trenggalek and Bantul, Java, Indonesia.
Deep focus earthquakes are often promoted by full moon tidal stresses as noted
previously in this summary. This epicenter is also at about 15 degrees south
of the local geomagnetic equator and was probably promoted the the last geomagnetic
storm as suggested in previous issues of this summary:
"Some seismicity may be triggered with this geomagnetic storm with
maximum likely strong events three to five days following the end of this geomagnetic storm (likely October 18-22) especially about 10-15 degrees
from the geomagnetic equator and at high auroral latitudes." (October 16-18, 2016)
As it lies within about 20 degrees longitude of the maximum tidal stress from
the full moon, tidal promotion is also likely as noted in the previous report" (October 17, 2016)
This earthquake has several unusual aspects to it. It occurred about 200 km northeast of the eruption of Kratatoa
a week ago but due to its position and depth is unlikely to have been primarily
triggered by that event. It is also near the maximum tidal stress for the
new moon today (see above). Tidal triggering is likely at least in some part
for this earthquake at this time. The last earthquake in the world of larger
magnitude than M 6.5 occurred three weeks ago as an M 6.7 in Central Peru
so it is a significant event. It occurred within several hundred km of the
true antipode of the M 7.4 in Colombia at August 10, 2026. The antipodal
relation with Colombia of this epicenter and the Krakatoa eruption cannot
be dissmissed as a possible trigger. This was discussed in detail in past
issues of this summary but is worthwhile to recall here. When the Colombia earthquake (and Krakatoa eruption)
occurred this summary noted in part:
"A strong volcanic eruption began today in Krakatoa, Indonesia. Krakatoa Volcano is located at 6.1S 105.4E. This location was at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lowell (13N 154W) when the eruption began. This location is also within about 150
km of the antipode of the M 7.5 in Colombia of August 10, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 was located in southern
Sumatra aboutthree hours after the Colombia mainshock within 100 km of the
exact antipode of the Colombia event. Events are antipodal if their longitudes
add to 180 degrees (in this case the longitude of Colombia is given as 77.6W
and that of Sumatra quake as 102.4E - a sum of exactly 180) and their signed
latitudes sum to zero (in this case the longitude of the Colombia event is 4.6N
and of the Sumatra event 5.5S - a difference of 0.9 degrees about 100 km
off of exact antipodal events). Geometric focusing at the antipode of a
major quake can produce seismic wave amplitudes which may be strong enough
to trigger antipodal activity as it appears to have done in this case." (November 15, 2004)
The last earthquake in Colombia of M>6.5 occurred 13 years ago on August 13, 2013.
At the time the relation to Sumatra was discussed as:
"This epicenter (in Colombia) is at the exact antipode of an M 5.3 which hit south of Sumatra two days ago and may
have been promoted or triggered by that event. Frequent readers of this
summary know that two epicenters are antipodal if their latitudes are
the same and in opposite hemispheres (6N and 6S in the current pair)
and their longitudes add to 180 and are in opposite hemispheres (78W and
102E in the current pair). Further activity in Sumatra near this epicenter
is likely in the next several days. After this was written an M 4.6 did
occur in this region of Sumatra. The earthquake off Panama is the
strongest to occur in the world since an M 7.2 in the South Sandwich Islands
of July 15, 2013, a month ago. It is also the largset within 200 km of this
epicenter to occur since events of M 7.2 on November 15, 2004; October 18, 1992 and November 19, 1991.
The 10- to 11-year cycle here is probably not coincidental but is forced
by solar activity also on an 11-year cycle." (August 13, 2013)
After a moderate earthquake in Sumatra occurred yesterday this summary discussed
the relation between Sumatra and Colombia earthquakes (see this issue below).
In particular it is worthwhile to note the antipodal relation of today's
event in Colombia with the earlier M 5.3 in Sumatra. Within error limits
imposed by depth and size of the rupture zone, these two are very nearly
exactly antipodal (compare 5S and 5N and 103E and 76W for antipodality." (August 10-11, 2026)
This summary discussed the likelihood of enhanced volcanism in Krakatoa
related to earthquakes in Venezuela (and Colombia) in previous issues.
When an M 7.5 hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026 it was noted:
"With the antipodal (to Venezeula) event of M 5.2-5.6 today south of Java, Indonesia
it is prudent to reexamine the last earthquake in Venezuela of the size
(M 7.5) of the event of June 25. This earthquake occurred on March 26, 1812 and
was associated in time with major earthquakes in New Madrid, Missouri (M 8.1)
and in the Los Angeles, California (December 8, 1812 and December 21, 1812 M 7.0) region of the same year.
What is not often associated with that event in Venezuela was a major
eruption of Tambora Volcano at 9S 118E east of Java in 1815. This is considered
by many geoscientists as the greatest volcanic eruption in modern times.
It released enough gas and particulate matter to darken the earth's skies
for several years after and caused the "year without summer" in 1816 when temperatures
in many areas dropped by significant amounts due to the sky darkening
from that volcanic eruption. This eruption began in 1812 when the "volcano
began to rumble and generated a dark cloud" (Wikipedia and Stothers, 2004, Density of fallen ash after the eruption of Tambora in 1815. Jurnal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research 134 (4), 343-345.
As Tambora is very near the antipode of the
1812 earthquake in Venezuela it is likely this volcanic activity in
Indonesia was promoted by seismic effects from the earthquake in Venezuela.
The last eruption of Tambora occurred on June 20, 2026.
The area of Sumatra and Java east to Sumba in Indonesia is highly volcanic
and many of the greatest recent volcanic eruption have occurred in this
region (including Krakatoa at 6S 105E in the Sunda arc) which experienced
a similar catastrophic eruption sequence from May to October, 1883 also causing global climate and
temperature drops due to the emitted ash cloud. The antipode of Krakatoa
is in Colombia at 6N 75W, another active seismic area. One of the strongest
earthquakes recorded in Colombia was an M 8.0 at 7N 77W on September 7, 1882
months before the eruption at Krakatoa began and very near the antipode
of that volcano. The only other event in Colombia of M>=8 in the historical
catalog was an M 8.2 on June 18, 1826. Krakatoa is currently experience a major period of unrest and
regional geoscientists consider a major eruption is possible at this time
or in the near future.
This brief glimpse into some of the major historical events in Colombia and
Venezuela and subsequent volcanism in the Sunda arc of Venezuela suggests
that the expected seismic regime of that area is likely to see a major
volcanic eruption in the next months as well as the possibility of a
moderately large to large earthquake near the antipode of the Venezuelan
earthquakes. Such an eruption would likely have major consequences in the
near term on global weather and temperatures as seen in 1812-1815 and
in 1882-1883. Mount Merapi in Central Java is an active volcano and is near
the antipode to the Venezuelan earthquakes. Signs of such a pending eruption should be carefully monitored
in coming days." (June 27, 2026)
In addition to being nearly antipodal to the M 7.4 in Colombia of August 10, 2026
this earthquake was also at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lowell at the time
of the start of the volcanic eruption" (September 4, 2026)
This event in Sumatra occurred near the peak of a minor proton storm (see above).
The remnants of Hurricane Lowell are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from
this epicenter in Southern Sumatra and may have also helped trigger this event.
O: 11SEP2026 21:23:55 5.0S 106.9E MW=6.5 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
The second strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.9-6.0 in the area of the
Banda Sea, Indonesia. This event at 129 degrees East longitude was probably promoted
by the tidal stresses associated with today's new moon as it occurred
at the longitude of maximum stress with that alignment (see above).
O: 11SEP2026 11:56:27 7.3S 129.0E MW=5.9 EMSC KEPULAUAN BARAT DAYA, INDONESI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in San Francisco Bay area, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay area, California in Pittsburg, Lodi, Pleasanton, Stockton, Danville, Clayton, Brentwood, Mountain View, Los Gatos among others.
This event was preceded by a series of light earthquake on September 10, 2026
which occurred near local solar noon. This area has been quiet in recent weeks
and this may indicate a resurgence of local seismicity near these epicenters.
A strong earthquake is overdue in the area.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Colombia and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 12SEP2026 07:25:55 37.8N 121.8W MD=3.4 NEIC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 12SEP2026 07:25:55 37.9N 121.8W ML=3.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in the Unimak area of southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Unimak area of southern Alaska near False Pass.
This epicenter is near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Flores Sea and at the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Hurricane Norbert and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 11SEP2026 07:31:50 54.2N 163.0W MB=4.5 EMSC UNIMAK ISLAND REGION, ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Central Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Alaska in Palmer, Eagle River, Talkeetna, Wasilla, Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna Borought, Valdez, Firdwood and Chugiak.
O: 11SEP2026 07:10:22 62.2N 147.8W ML=4.0 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.0, 2.1, 2.3, 2.3, 2.5, 2.4 in the Geysers of northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Geysers of northern California in Middletown and Kelseyville.
O: 11SEP2026 10:24:19 38.8N 122.7W MD=2.3 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Wyoming was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Wyoming in Fort Bridger.
This epicenter is at 30 degrees (node 12) from Chiapas, Mexico and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 12SEP2026 06:25:49 41.7N 109.8W MB=3.8 EMSC WYOMING
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Washington State was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Washington State in Mount Vernon, Stanwood, Arlington, Anacortes, and in British Columbia, Canada at Chilliwack and Ucluelet.
O: 12SEP2026 04:17:36 48.4N 122.3W ML=2.5 EMSC WASHINGTON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Panama was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Panama in Chiriqui at Potrerillos Arriva (V); Boquete and Cerro Punta and Bagala (IV) and in Corredor, Bocas del Toro, Volcan, Pedregal, Palmira and David with intensity III-IV.
EMSC reported moderate to strong shaking in Panama at Santo Domingo, Bugabita Arriba, Progreso, Santa Rosa, Manaca Civil, Aguacatal, Nuevo San Carlitos, David, Volcan, Potrerillos Arriba, Palmira, Limones, Bajo Boquete, Mague, Alto Boquete, Jaramillo Arriba, Boca Chica, Anton, Rio Abajo, San Miguelito, and in Costa Rica at Mercedes, Daniel Flores, San Juan.
O: 12SEP2026 01:59:50 8.4N 82.8W MB=4.7 EMSC PANAMA-COSTA RICA BORDER REGIO
O: 12SEP2026 02:18:33 9.4N 82.9W ML=4.2 EMSC PANAMA-COSTA RICA BORDER REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia in Pereira, Tisarlda, Cali Valle del Cauca and Buenaventura.
EMSC reported light ot moderate shaking in Colombia at Buenaventura, Cali, Montenegro, Pereira, Sabaneta, Soacha, Bogota,
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and
at the seventh node (52 degrees) from the current position of Hurricane Norbert
and is likely to have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 11SEP2026 16:42:30 4.4N 76.8W MB=4.7 EMSC COLOMBIA
NEIC reported a series of earthquakes of M 5.3, 4.3 ... in the western Andreanof Islands, Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the western Andreanof Islands, Alaska near Adak.
This was the strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today.
This epicenter was at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Hurricane Norbert
when it occurred and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 11SEP2026 10:51:55 51.1N 178.4W ML=3.1 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
O: 11SEP2026 10:52:51 51.1N 178.4W ML=4.3 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS.
O: 12SEP2026 03:43:22 51.1N 178.5W ML=3.5 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS.
O: 11SEP2026 10:47:13 51.3N 178.5W mb=5.3 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM NORBERT (DEPRESSION 14E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NORBERT 2026-09-12 00:00 UT 17.8N 130.0W 55 kts West of of Baja California, Mexico
TS Norbert (14E) continued today west of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 55 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 18S 50E) where little seismic enhancement is possible at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
A tropical cyclone may be forming south of Baja California. This system is currently located at 14N 114W with winds up to 25 kts and is not expected to enhance regional seismicity at this time. The antipode at 14S 66E could see moderate enhancement in the next several days.
A tropical cyclone may be forming west of Central and northern Philippines. This system is currently located at 17N 109E with winds up to 25 kts and may enhance regional seismicity in southeast Asia and the Philippines at this time. The antipode at 17S 71W - an active seismic zone in northern Chile and southern Peru - could see moderate enhancement in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
There were no solar flares of C-class or higher observed on September 11, 2026.
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled September 12-13 active September 14. Solar M-flare chance: 10% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 8, high: 16, mid-latitude: 9, time of max k: 12:00-14:00 UT; Max k: 5 Global Kp 2.67 0900-1200, September 11; Sunspot Number: 88; Radio Flux: 110 September 11, 2026.
September 11, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on September 11, 2026 at 03:27 UT. Areas which are anti-solar (local solar midnight) are near 52 W and those sub-solar at this time are near 127 E longitudes. In the west these include areas of the Atlantic Ocean including Iceland and eastern Caribbean while in the east much of the area from Kamchatka south to Japan and portions of Eastern New Guinea, Mindanao, Philippines, central Indonesia, Taiwan, Macquarie and New South Wales, Australia are near these longitudes and may see enhanced seismicity in the next week. A moderately strong earthquake is possible after the current geomagnetic storm ceases in this area during this time. Other areas may also see tidal triggering which is most likely near local solar midnight and local solar noon." (June 12-14, 2026)
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.9-6.0 in the area of the
Banda Sea, Indonesia. This event at 129 degrees East longitude was probably promoted
by the tidal stresses associated with today's new moon as it occurred
at the longitude of maximum stress with that alignment (see above).
O: 11SEP2026 11:56:27 7.3S 129.0E MW=5.9 EMSC KEPULAUAN BARAT DAYA, INDONESI
A moderate excursion in the geomagnetic field strength was recorded on
September 11 starting about 15:20 UT. An arcjet manevuer corrected the
satellite position and normal operations resumed about 16:00 UT.
The GFZ Hp30 index was mostly at quiet levels today occasionally reaching
an index near 4 on two occasions. The geomagnetic storm is over and
normal or slightly elevated seismicity is expected in the next several
days as electrons reform ionospheric ring currents which can induce
telluric currents and probably help promote seismicity in many areas.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Puntarenas at Quepos, Esparta, Golfito and II in San jose at San Vicente, Desamparados and in Palmares, Alajuela.
O: 10SEP2026 08:26:53 9.0N 84.1W MW=5.0 EMSC COSTA RICA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in Ecuador-Peru border was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ecuador-Peru border in Ecuador at Macas Morona Santiago.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Ecuador at Gualaquiza, Gualacep. Cuenca.
The M 4.7 was reported with intensity II in Peru in Loja.
O: 10SEP2026 06:42:51 3.8S 77.4W MW=5.3 EMSC PERU-ECUADOR BORDER REGION
O: 10SEP2026 10:39:35 3.9S 77.4W mb=4.7 EMSC PERU-ECUADOR BORDER REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in San Francisco Bay area, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay area, California in Pittsburg, Lodi, Pleasanton, Stockton, Danville, Clayton, Brentwood, Mountain View, Los Gatos among others.
This event was preceded by a series of light earthquake on September 10, 2026
which occurred near local solar noon. This area has been quiet in recent weeks
and this may indicate a resurgence of local seismicity near these epicenters.
A strong earthquake is overdue in the area.
O: 12SEP2026 07:25:55 37.8N 121.8W MD=3.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 10SEP2026 21:27:18 37.7N 122.0W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 10SEP2026 22:00:38 37.7N 122.0W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 10SEP2026 22:02:52 37.7N 122.0W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in the Unimak area of southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Unimak area of southern Alaska near False Pass.
O: 11SEP2026 07:31:50 54.2N 163.0W MB=4.5 EMSC UNIMAK ISLAND REGION, ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Central Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Alaska in Palmer, Eagle River, Talkeetna, Wasilla, Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna Borought, Valdez, Firdwood and Chugiak.
O: 11SEP2026 07:10:22 62.2N 147.8W ML=4.0 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.0, 2.1, 2.3, 2.3, 2.5, 2.4 in the Geysers of northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Geysers of northern California in Middletown and Kelseyville.
O: 10SEP2026 11:27:02 38.8N 122.8W MD=2.4 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 23:03:42 38.8N 122.8W MD=2.5 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 23:41:57 38.8N 122.8W MD=2.3 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 11SEP2026 10:24:19 38.8N 122.7W MD=2.3 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 20:29:38 38.9N 122.8W MD=2.1 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 20:36:17 38.9N 122.8W ML=3.0 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 20:36:38 38.9N 122.8W ML=3.2 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Northern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Alaska with IV in Teller and II in Wales and Nome.
O: 10SEP2026 23:03:10 65.2N 166.7W ML=4.0 EMSC NORTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in East Timor, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of East Timor, Indonesia with III in Aileu, Liquica, Deli and in Coonawarra, Northern Territory, Australia.
O: 10SEP2026 18:44:40 8.5S 127.7E MB=5.3 EMSC EAST TIMOR REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Lebanon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Lebanon in Nabatiye et Tahta.
EMSC reported this earthquake was associated with bombing in the current regional
hostilities. That agency also reported shaking in Lebanon at Sidon, Tyre, Beirut, Ra's Bayrut, Tripoli and in Syria at 'Ayn al Fijah, Sirghaya, Babila, and in Parekklisha, Cyprus.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Flores and at 105
degrees from Colombia and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10SEP2026 18:08:47 33.3N 35.3E MB=4.1 EMSC LEBANON - SYRIA REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Guam was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guam in Tamuning.
O: 10SEP2026 13:28:16 12.1N 143.9E MW=5.1 EMSC GUAM REGION
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Valparaiso, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Valparaiso, Chile in Vina del Mar.
O: 11SEP2026 04:42:24 32.6S 72.0W ML=4.3 EMSC OFFSHORE VALPARAISO, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-11 00:00 UT 29.0N 169.8W 55 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today Northwest of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 55 kts. It is expected dissipate in the next day. This storm is antipodal to the southern Africa near 29S 10E - a non seismic area near Botswana and northern South Africa. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
TROPICAL STORM NORBERT (DEPRESSION 14E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NORBERT 2026-09-11 00:00 UT 16.4N 124.3W 70 kts West of of Baja California, Mexico
TS Norbert (14E) continued today west of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 70 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 16S 56E) where moderate seismic enhancement is possible at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8040 0025 0051 0108 C1.4 (September 10, 2026) 3.0E-03
Nias M 3.1 00:25 UT
Spain M 1.7 00:25 UT
Jan Mayen M 3.9 01:09 UT
8120 1653 1712 1739 C1.6 (September 10, 2026) 3.3E-03
Sichuan China, M 3.8 16:54 UT
Costa Rica M 3.0 16:53 UT
Hawaii M 2.2 16:54 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled September 11-13. Solar M-flare chance: 10% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 9, high: 14, mid-latitude: 8, time of max k: 09:00-11:00 UT; Max k: 5 Global Kp 2.67 0000-0600, September 10; Sunspot Number: 90; Radio Flux: 115 September 10, 2026.
A moderate excursion in the geomagnetic field strength was recorded on
September 11 starting about 15:20 UT. An arcjet manevuer corrected the
satellite position and normal operations resumed about 16:00 UT.
The GFZ Hp30 index was mostly at quiet levels today occasionally reaching
an index near 4 on two occasions. The geomagnetic storm is over and
normal or slightly elevated seismicity is expected in the next several
days as electrons reform ionospheric ring currents which can induce
telluric currents and probably help promote seismicity in many areas.
September 10, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on September 11, 2026 at 03:27 UT. Areas which are anti-solar (local solar midnight) are near 52 W and those sub-solar at this time are near 127 E longitudes. In the west these include areas of the Atlantic Ocean including Iceland and eastern Caribbean while in the east much of the area from Kamchatka south to Japan and portions of Eastern New Guinea, Mindanao, Philippines, central Indonesia, Taiwan, Macquarie and New South Wales, Australia are near these longitudes and may see enhanced seismicity in the next week. A moderately strong earthquake is possible after the current geomagnetic storm ceases in this area during this time. Other areas may also see tidal triggering which is most likely near local solar midnight and local solar noon." (June 12-14, 2026)
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 4 over the past 24 hours but minor excursions
reaching Hp30 of 4 occurred throughout September 9, 2026.
During this current storm global seismic activity is expected to be dampened with
little chance for a strong earthquake in the next two days despite tidal
effects from the new moon of September 11.
Otherwise, it was a quiet day in global seismicity today. An aftershock of M 1.7
in Maryland followed the M 2.1 in Maryland yesterday which NEIC reported was weakly felt in the epicentral area in Maryland at Rising Sun, Port Deposit, Solora, Conowingo, Hyattsville, Jefferson, Frederick and Churchville and in Middletown, Delaware, Glenside, Pennsylvania. .
This epicenter in Maryland is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell
and at 145 degrees from the Flores Sea and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources among others.
O: 09SEP2026 04:41:39 39.7N 76.1W ML=2.1 EMSC MARYLAND
O: 09SEP2026 09:54:19 39.7N 76.1W ML=1.7 EMSC MARYLAND
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Puntarenas at Quepos, Esparta, Golfito and II in San jose at San Vicente, Desamparados and in Palmares, Alajuela.
O: 10SEP2026 08:26:53 9.0N 84.1W MW=5.0 EMSC COSTA RICA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in Ecuador-Peru border was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ecuador-Peru border in Ecuador at Macas Morona Santiago.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Ecuador at Gualaquiza, Gualacep. Cuenca.
O: 10SEP2026 06:42:40 3.9S 77.5W MW=5.3 EMSC PERU-ECUADOR BORDER REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Central Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Alaska in Glennallen, Fort Richardson, Delta Junction, Matanuska-Susitna, Talkeetna, Palmer, Fairbanks, Girdwood, Indian, and Eagle River.
EMSC reported brief shaking for several seconds at Anchorage, Girdwood.
This epicenter is at the 10th node (36 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and at the sxth node (60 degrees)
from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10SEP2026 05:18:09 62.5N 147.8W ML=4.2 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in San Francisco Bay, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay, California in Oakland, Menlo Park, Alameda, and Moraga.
This epicenter is at the 10th node (36 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and at the seventh
node (52 degrees) from Colombia and may have been promoted by energy from
those sources.
O: 10SEP2026 02:52:23 37.8N 122.2W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.6 and M 3.8 off the northern coast of California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern California at Petrolia, Rio Dell, Ferndale, Loleta, Garberville, Whitethorn, Fortuna.
O: 10SEP2026 01:24:03 40.3N 124.6W MW=3.5 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 01:24:03 40.3N 124.6W MW=3.8 NEIC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 01:24:47 40.3N 124.6W Mw=3.4 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 10SEP2026 01:24:47 40.3N 124.6W Mw=3.6 NEIC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 4.3 and M 4.6 in Tarapaca, Chile were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Tarapaca, Chile in Iquique.
These epicenters are at 102 degrees from the current eye of Hurricane Lowell
and were probably promoted by energy from that source.
O: 10SEP2026 01:57:36 21.0S 69.2W MB=4.3 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
O: 09SEP2026 11:46:02 20.6S 70.6W MW=4.5 EMSC OFFSHORE TARAPACA, CHILE
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Southern Iran was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Iran in Khowrmuj.
O: 09SEP2026 19:26:22 28.1N 51.5E MB=4.3 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-10 00:00 UT 29.0N 164.8W 70 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today Northwest of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected track to the west and north at this point. This storm is antipodal to the southern Africa near 29S 16E - a non seismic area near Botswana and northern South Africa. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
TROPICAL STORM NORBERT (DEPRESSION 14E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NORBERT 2026-09-10 00:00 UT 16.4N 117.3W 45 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
TS Norbert (14E) continued today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 45 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 16S 63E) where moderate seismic enhancement is possible at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7950 0553 0610 0625 C1.5 (September 9, 2026) 2.2E-03
Sunda Strait M 4.0 06:21 UT
7960 0848 0908 0923 C3.4 (September 9, 2026) 4.3E-03
7980 1023 1032 1037 C3.2 (September 9, 2026) 1.8E-03
Flores M 3.7 10:22 UT
Henan, China M 4.6 10:51 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled September 10-12. Solar M-flare chance: 10% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 12, high: 26, mid-latitude: 10, time of max k: 07:00-09:00 UT; Max k: 6 Global Kp 3.00 1800-2200, September 9; Sunspot Number: 107; Radio Flux: 109 September 9, 2026.
September 9, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on September 11, 2026 at 03:27 UT. Areas which are anti-solar (local solar midnight) are near 52 W and those sub-solar at this time are near 127 E longitudes. In the west these include areas of the Atlantic Ocean including Iceland and eastern Caribbean while in the east much of the area from Kamchatka south to Japan and portions of Eastern New Guinea, Mindanao, Philippines, central Indonesia, Taiwan, Macquarie and New South Wales, Australia are near these longitudes and may see enhanced seismicity in the next week. A moderately strong earthquake is possible after the current geomagnetic storm ceases in this area during this time. Other areas may also see tidal triggering which is most likely near local solar midnight and local solar noon." (June 12-14, 2026)
The Hp30 (GFZ) index exceeded 4 over most of the past 24 hours and reached 6 on several occasions mid-UT day. This is the strongest
geomagnetic storm since the storm of July 4, 2026 when global A reached 75 and K-index reached 7.33.
Today's storm is likely to continue for several days at a reduced intensity.
During the storm global seismic activity is expected to be dampened with
little chance for a strong earthquake in the next two days.
A geomagnetic excursion was noted by the magnetometer on GOES 18 beginning about 15:35-15:43 UT.
An arcjet maneuver corrected the satellite position and normal operations
resumed by 16:45 UT. Two moderate earthquake coincided with the start of this geomagnetic
excursion - an M 5.2 in the Flores Sea at 15:37 UT and an M 4.9 in Tonga at 15:43 UT.
The earthquake in the Flores Sea occurred within minutes of local solar midnight
and was felt with intensity II in Ruteng, Nusa Tenggara, Timur, Indonesia and may have been promoted by this change in geomagnetic field strength.
O: 08SEP2026 15:43:57 16.1S 173.2W MB=4.9 EMSC TONGA
O: 08SEP2026 15:36:35 7.9S 120.8E MW=5.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
Otherwise, it was a quiet day in global seismicity today. The most unusual earthquake of
the day was an M 2.1 in Maryland which NEIC reported was weakly felt in the epicentral area in Maryland at Rising Sun, Port Deposit, Solora, Conowingo, Hyattsville, Jefferson, Frederick and Churchville and in Middletown, Delaware, Glenside, Pennsylvania. .
The mainshock of M 2.1 was followed by an M 1.7 aftershock.
This epicenter in Maryland is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell
and at 145 degrees from the Flores Sea and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources among others.
O: 09SEP2026 04:41:39 39.7N 76.1W ML=2.1 EMSC MARYLAND
O: 09SEP2026 09:54:19 39.7N 76.1W ML=1.7 EMSC MARYLAND
Earthquakes were also felt in northern Greece (M 4.5) and in the Xizang-Nepal
border region (M 4.9). EMSC reported the earthquake in Nepal was felt in Nepal at jomsom, Lo Manthang, Bhattarai Danda, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Patan.
NEIC reported intensity IV from Nepal at Pokhara, Kaska III in Bagluri, Baglung, Tribuvannagar and II in Kathmandu.
This event in Nepal is at the seventh node (51-52 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08SEP2026 16:08:35 29.2N 84.0E MB=4.9 EMSC XIZANG-NEPAL BORDER REGION
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.3 in Tonga.
The earthquake in Tonga was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity
III in Tonga at Pangai, Ha'aai and Neiafu, Vava'u.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have
been promoted by geomagnetic and/or tidal stresses which maximize near this hour.
O: 08SEP2026 11:51:12 18.5S 174.0W MB=5.3 EMSC TONGA
A moderate sized earthquake occurred today in northern Greece (M 4.5). NEIC reported the earthquakes in Greece were felt with intensity III in Mesolongion, Aitolia kai Akarnania, Greece.
A foreshock of M 4.3 in Greece was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity II in Patrai, Ahaia, Greece.
EMSC reported these earthquakes in Greece were felt as a big shake in Rio, Agrinio, Ayios Konstandinos, Kamaroula, Newchorion, Nafpaktos, Patra, Kato Achaia, Paralia, Ovia, Varda, Nidhrion, Ligia, Ithaki, Lechaina, Aigio, laxidhion, Laganas, Kariotika Karyas, and in Cim, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
This earthquakes in Greece is located at 103 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and were
likely promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08SEP2026 07:46:32 38.5N 21.4E ML=4.5 EMSC GREECE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-09 00:00 UT 27.0N 162.8W 75 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today Northwest of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 75 kts. It is expected track to the west and north at this point. This storm is antipodal to the southern Africa near 27S 16E - a non seismic area near Botswana and northern South Africa. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 14E
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 14E 2026-09-09 00:00 UT 16.0N 114.0W 40 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
TD 14E formed today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 16S 65E) where moderate seismic enhancement is possible at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7950 0553 0610 0625 C1.5 (September 9, 2026) 2.2E-03
Sunda Strait M 4.0 06:21 UT
7960 0848 0908 0923 C3.4 (September 9, 2026) 4.3E-03
7980 1023 1032 1037 C3.2 (September 9, 2026) 1.8E-03
Flores M 3.7 10:22 UT
Henan, China M 4.6 10:51 UT
7800 1219 1224 1227 C2.4 (September 8, 2026) 8.0E-04
7830 1735 1743 1747 C2.8 (September 8, 2026) 1.1E-03
7890 2032 2043 2051 C1.2 (September 8, 2026) 1.1E-03
Utah M 2.2 20:33 UT
7900 2139 2148 2156 C1.2 (September 8, 2026) 1.2E-03
Flores M 4.6 21:42 UT
Tonga M 4.9 21:57 UT
7910 2217 2224 2229 C2.6 (September 8, 2026) 1.4E-03
Hokkaido M 3.8 22:16 UT
Queen Charlotte Is. M 3.8 22:15 UT
Taiwan M 4.3 22:32 UT
7920 2322 2339 2350 C3.4 (September 8, 2026) 3.6E-03
Mariana Is. M 4.9 23:23 UT
Flores M 3.9 23:23 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled September 10-11 minor storms September 9. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 29, high: 44, mid-latitude: 23, time of max k: 07:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 6 Global Kp 5.00 0900-1200, September 8; Sunspot Number: 102; Radio Flux: 110 September 8, 2026.
September 8, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today at high latitudes near mid-UT day.
Kp reached 6 for several hours.
A strong geomagnetic field excursion was registered on the GOES-18 magnetometer (137 W)
beginning about 08:00 UT on September 7. It was not associated with a significant
earthquake. A similar excursion on the GOES 19 magnetometer began about 23:35 UT
on September 7. An arcjet maneuver corrected the orbit and normal operations
resumed by 00:50 UT on September 8. An M 5.1 earthquake in Vanuatu which occurred within
minutes of local solar noon accompanied this geomagnetic excursion. An M 4.4 in
Fiji occurred shortly before at 22:35 UT, also a near-solar noon event.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index exceeded 4 over most of the past 24 hours and reached 5 on several occasions. This is the strongest
geomagnetic storm since the storm of late August, 2026 ended on August 31, 2026.
Global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator is expected to be dampened while this storm is in progress.
Moderate sized earthquake occurred today in northern Greece (M 4.5 and M 4.0) and
in Albania (M 4.3). NEIC reported the earthquakes in Greece were felt with intensity III in Mesolongion, Aitolia kai Akarnania, Greece.
A foreshock of M 4.3 in Greece was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity II in Patrai, Ahaia, Greece.
EMSC reported these earthquakes in Greece were felt as a big shake in Rio, Agrinio, Ayios Konstandinos, Kamaroula, Newchorion, Nafpaktos, Patra, Kato Achaia, Paralia, Ovia, Varda, Nidhrion, Ligia, Ithaki, Lechaina, Aigio, laxidhion, Laganas, Kariotika Karyas, and in Cim, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
These earthquakes (in Albania and Greece) are located at 103 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and were
likely promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08SEP2026 07:46:32 38.5N 21.4E ML=4.5 EMSC GREECE
O: 08SEP2026 03:25:15 38.3N 21.8E mb=4.0 EMSC GREECE
O: 08SEP2026 03:25:15 38.3N 21.8E mb=4.3 NEIC GREECE
NEIC reported the earthquake in Albania was lightly felt near Pogradec, Albania.
EMSC reported this earthquake in Albania was felt with moderate intensity in Albania at Vreshtas, Bucimas, Pogradec, Korce, Gramsh, Tirana, Kolonje, and in North Macedonia at Otlja, Ohrid, Mislesevo, Struga, Lavci, Radolista, Bitola, and in Neapoli, Greece and Pristina, Kosovo.
O: 08SEP2026 03:40:55 40.8N 20.8E MB=4.3 EMSC ALBANIA
NEIC reported two earthquakes of M 3.0 each in Hawaii were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii at Waikoloa, Kahalau, Laupahoehoe, Pepeekeo, Honomu, Kamuela.
These may have been promoted by energy from Hurricane Lowell which was passing
to the west of Hawaii today and had been expected to excite some enhanced
seismicity in that area at this time.
This epicenter is at the sixth node from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08SEP2026 07:06:48 19.9N 155.2W MD=3.0 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
O: 08SEP2026 06:52:45 19.7N 155.8W MD=3.1 NEIC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the South Sandwich Islands was not felt in this remote area.
This epicenter is at 107 degrees from Flores Sea and the fourth node (90 degrees)\
from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08SEP2026 06:50:41 58.2S 26.0W MW=5.1 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in northern Venezuela was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Venezuela near Lara.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Venezeula at San Felipe, Puerto Cabello, Naguanagua, Valencia, Maracay, Guanare, Santa Rita, San Antonio de Los Altos, Caracaas, La Dolorita, Santa Teresa del Tuy, El Vigia, Machiques, Tovar,
O: 08SEP2026 06:49:53 10.6N 69.2W MW=4.8 EMSC LARA, VENEZUELA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia in Cartago Valle del Cauca.
This epicenter is at 51.5 degrees (node 7) from Hurricane Marie and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08SEP2026 02:01:34 4.5N 76.8W MB=4.4 EMSC COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California in Garberville, Rio Dell, Fortuna, Mount Shasta, Carlotta, Hydesville and Redcrest.
O: 07SEP2026 21:44:24 40.6N 123.7W MW=3.4 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 07SEP2026 21:44:24 40.6N 123.7W MW=3.7 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
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 in Chugiak.
O: 07SEP2026 18:01:15 63.0N 149.3W ML=3.5 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in India-Bangladesh was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of India-Bangladesh in Dispur.
O: 08SEP2026 04:27:22 26.0N 89.9E ML=4.1 EMSC INDIA-BANGLADESH BORDER REGION
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Oaxaca, Mexico was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Oaxaca, Mexico in Puerto Escondido, Colonia Libertad.
O: 08SEP2026 00:03:10 15.8N 97.1W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-08 00:00 UT 23.0N 160.8W 105 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today Northwest of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 105 kts. It is expected track to the west at this point. A series of minor earthquakes were recorded in Hawaii with this close approach of Hurricane Lowell. This storm is antipodal to the southern Africa near 23S 20E - a non seismic area near Botswana and northern South Africa. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
HURRICANE MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR MARIE 2026-09-08 00:00 UT 25.5N 127.0W 45 kts West of Baja California, Mexico
Hurricane Marie (13E) continued today west of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 45 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 25S 53E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD KROVANH 2026-09-08 00:00 UT 31.9N 133.0E 40 kts Kyushu, Japan
TS Krovanh continued today in the region of Kyushu, Japan with winds up to 40 kts. This storm will be encountering Kyushu, Japan around September 8 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 32S 47W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7750 0810 0901 0924 C2.1 (September 7, 2026) 6.3E-03
7730 1927 1935 1942 C1.0 (September 7, 2026) 6.9E-04
Off Northern California M 2.3 19:38 UT
South Island, NZ M 3.5 19:55 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled September 10 minor storms September 8-9. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 19, high: 34, mid-latitude: 17, time of max k: 07:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 6 Global Kp 4.33 2200-2400, September 7; Sunspot Number: 103; Radio Flux: 110 September 7, 2026.
A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today at high latitudes near mid-UT day.
Kp reached 6 for several hours.
A strong geomagnetic field excursion was registered on the GOES-18 magnetometer (137 W)
beginning about 08:00 UT on September 7. It was not associated with a significant
earthquake. A similar excursion on the GOES 19 magnetometer began about 23:35 UT
on September 7. An arcjet maneuver corrected the orbit and normal operations
resumed by 00:50 UT on September 8. An M 5.1 earthquake in Vanuatu which occurred within
minutes of local solar noon accompanied this geomagnetic excursion. An M 4.4 in
Fiji occurred shortly before at 22:35 UT, also a near-solar noon event.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index exceeded 4 over most of the past 24 hours and reached 5 on several occasions. This is the strongest
geomagnetic storm since the storm of late August, 2026 ended on August 31, 2026.
Global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator is expected to be dampened while this storm is in progress.
September 7, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
NEIC reported a series of earthquakes of M 5.0-5.4 in the East Pacific Rise was not felt in this remote area.
These events may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 7570 (C5.0) - the
large flare of the day. The largest occurred within a minute of the start of
that flare near local solar midnight. Data from SWPC for this flare follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7570 1031 1042 1048 C5.0 (September 6, 2026) 2.8E-03
Southeast Pacific Rise M 5.2, 5.2, 5.010:32, 10:38, 10:38, UT
Antofagasta M 4.8 10:39 UT
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and
at the eighth node from Chiapas, Mexico (45 degrees) and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 6SEP2026 10:38:34 22.1S 115.7W MB=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
O: 6SEP2026 10:38:18 24.5S 116.0W MB=5.2 EMSC SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
O: 06SEP2026 10:52:28 24.0S 115.9W mb=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
O: 06SEP2026 12:00:15 24.3S 116.0W mb=5.2 EMSC SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
O: 06SEP2026 10:32:27 24.5S 115.7W mb=5.2 EMSC SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in the Loyalty Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Loyalty Islands.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and at the seventh node (51 degrees)
from Flores and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 7SEP2026 05:50:44 23.4S 171.7E MW=5.5 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
NEIC reported a series of moderate earthquakes of M 5.0, 4.9, 4.7 in the Kermadec Islands, N.Z. was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Kermadec Islands, N.Z.
These epicenters are at 105 degrees from Colombianand at the seventh node (51 degrees)
from Hurricane Lowell and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 7SEP2026 02:06:46 31.1S 178.8E MB=5.0 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
O: 07SEP2026 02:11:50 31.1S 178.7E mb=4.9 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
O: 07SEP2026 02:30:21 31.3S 178.7E mb=4.7 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.3 off the coast
of Oregon in a volcanic active region. NEIC reported it with M 5.3 was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Portland and Salem, Oregon and in Longview, Washington and possibly in Oregon at Shady Cove and Newport and in British Columbia at Victoria.
This epicenter is at 20 degrees from Hurricane Marie; 40 degrees from Hurricane
Lowell and 60 degrees from the Colombia earthquake of August 10 and may have
been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
It may also be related to the proton storm which was in progress when it
occurred (see previous issues for more details on this storm).
O: 7SEP2026 01:30:22 43.8N 128.5W MW=5.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
O: 07SEP2026 01:30:01 43.8N 128.2W mb=3.9 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia in Popayan Cauca.
O: 6SEP2026 22:15:38 4.5N 76.8W MB=4.4 EMSC COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Guerrero, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guerrero, Mexico in Acapulco and Mexico City.
O: 7SEP2026 06:58:59 16.9N 99.8W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 07SEP2026 04:00:53 16.2N 99.4W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 06SEP2026 18:46:21 16.5N 99.2W mb=4.8 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Peru in Arequipa.
O: 6SEP2026 09:14:26 17.2S 72.8W MB=4.2 EMSC NEAR COAST OF SOUTHERN PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Los Angeles, California in Bellflower, Pico Rivera, Lakewood, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Compton, Downey, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos among others.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and at the third node (120 degrees)
from the Flores Sea and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06SEP2026 07:13:11 33.9N 118.2W ML=3.2 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Antofagasta, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Antofagasta, Chile in Calama.
O: 6SEP2026 10:39:31 22.3S 68.7W MB=4.8 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-07 00:00 UT 32.0N 95.0W 40 kts Eastern Texas
TS Edouard continued today over eastern Texas with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and made landfall on September 2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and southern Texas upon landfall and for about a day after. The antipode at 32S 86E in the South Indian Ocean is not a seismic area.
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-07 00:00 UT 17.0N 162.8W 125 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today South of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 125 kts. It is expected to make a turn to the north and east today and tomorrow. This could bring it near Hawaii as a major hurricane around September 8-10, 2026 where it could promote enhanced seismicity. This storm is antipodal to the southern Africa near 17S 18E - a non seismic area near Botswana. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-07 00:00 UT 23.0N 145.0W 50 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may arrive north of Hawaii around September 7-8 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 23S 35E near Madagascar) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity has been noted at 103 and 144 degrees from the eye of Karina and this could continue.
HURRICANE MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR MARIE 2026-09-07 00:00 UT 24.5N 124.0W 70 kts West of Baja California, Mexico
Hurricane Marie (13E) continued today west of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 70 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 24S 56E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD KROVANH 2026-09-07 00:00 UT 28.2N 132.9E 40 kts East of Ryukyu Islands
TS Krovanh continued today in the region east of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan with winds up to 40 kts. This storm will be encountering the Ryukyu Islands of Japan around September 7 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 28S 47W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 24S 63W is a seismic area in northern Chile and Argentina
and could see moderate, deep focus seismicity at this time. This storm is
expected to dissipate in the next day.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7570 1031 1042 1048 C5.0 (September 6, 2026) 2.8E-03
Southeast Pacific Rise M 5.2, 5.2, 5.010:32, 10:38, 10:38, UT
Antofagasta M 4.8 10:39 UT
Philippines M 4.0 10:52 UT
7600 1315 1334 1351 C1.1 (September 6, 2026) 1.9E-03
Nepal M 3.8 13:29 UT
New Zealand M 3.1 13:32 UT
Ecuador M 3.5 13:46 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active September 7 unsettled September 8-9. Solar M-flare chance: 20% X-class: 1% proton storm: 99%
AP Indicies: global: 5, high: 2, mid-latitude: 5, time of max k: 09:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 2 Global Kp 1.67 2300-2400, September 6; Sunspot Number: 83; Radio Flux: 110 September 6, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current geomagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
September 6, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate proton storm began on September 5 beginning at about 15:25 UT (GOES-18 Proton flux) and peaking about 16:45 UT.
Proton storms of this type excite seismicity in specific areas.
In the current situation, the strongest earthquakes of the day occurred
near the peak of this storm in Vanuatu with M 5.6; Fox Islands (M 4.9) and New Ireland (M 5.5).
Proton flux was unavailable at the peak of the storm (18:00-19:50 UT).
The event most likely triggered by this proton storm was an M 4.2-4.4 off the west coast
of North Island, New Zealand.
NEIC reported the aftershock of M 3.9 was felt with intensity II in New Plymouth, Taranaki,
New Zealand.
The event in New Zealand is a rarity. The last earthquake off the west coast
of North Island, New Zealand with M>=4.2 within about 100 km of today's epicenter
occurred as an M 4.8 on November 7, 2016 and before that as an M 4.6 on January 11, 2013. Today's earthquake was widely
felt on North Island. GeoNet gives the following data and felt information
for this event:
O: 05SEP2025 18:46:10 39.3S 173.9E MB=4.2 GEONET Felt with moderate to strong intensity in the area northwest of Wellington, North Island, New Zealand and in southern North Island. 2138 reports of felt events were made of which 776 reported weak and 1082 light intensity with 262 reports of moderate shaking and 16 with strong and 1 severe and 1 with extreme intensity came from the area.
This epicenter in New Zealand is at 102 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Hurricane Karina and may have been promoted by energy from
those sources.
O: 05SEP2026 18:46:09 39.2S 173.8E ML=4.2 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF N. ISLAND, N.Z
O: 05SEP2026 18:21:16 39.3S 173.9E ML=3.3 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF N. ISLAND, N.Z.
The earthquake in this area off New Zealand may be a harbinger of a stronger
regional earthquake in the next week. The M 4.8 on November 7, 2016 was
followed by an M 7.8 near Christchurch, New Zealand six days later on
November 13, 2016 - one of the strongest earthquakes in New Zealand in
recent history. Other such examples occurred when events of M 4.2 occurred on
September 14 and 17, 1997 off the west coast of North Island, N.Z. were followed
on September 20, 1997 by an M 7.0 in the Kermadec Islands on September 20, 1997;
an M 5.5 in North Island on May 24, 2001 was followed on June 3 by an M 7.1
in the Kermadec Islands; an M 4.7 on May 5, 2026 by a strong M 7.4 in the Kermadec Islands
on May 16, 2026; A North Island M 5.4 on July 5, 2011 by an M 7.6 in the
Kermadec Islands on July 6, 2011; an M 4.8 in North Island of February 27, 2021 by
a series of M 7.3, 7.4 and 8.1 on March 4, 2021 in the Kermadec Islands.
This suggests a delay of about a week with the most likely area for a
major regional quake in the Kermadec Islands around September 11-13, 2026.
Most large earthquakes in New Zealand occur in the Kermadec Islands so they
may be heavily favored in such an analysis and there are major events
in the Kermadec Islands not preceded by smaller quakes off the west coast
of North Island, New Zealand.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current geomagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
An earthquakes in Sumatra of M 5.2 occurred at 102 degrees from the current location
of the eye of Hurricane Lowell and was likely promoted by energy from that source.
As Lowell moves north and east in the next two days it will remain near 103 degrees
from northern Sumatra and further enhanced seismicity may occur in that area
in the next several days.
O: 05SEP2026 14:06:07 1.1N 98.6E MB=5.2 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 05SEP2026 09:14:15 3.2N 96.1E MB=4.5 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Los Angeles, California in Bellflower, Pico Rivera, Lakewood, Long Beach, Santa Ana, Compton, Downey, Los Angeles, Los Alamitos among others.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and at the third node (120 degrees)
from the Flores Sea and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06SEP2026 07:13:11 33.9N 118.2W ML=3.2 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in the Solomon Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Solomon Islands near Kirakira.
O: 06SEP2026 04:05:30 11.1S 162.5E MW=5.6 EMSC SOLOMON ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in Chiapas, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Chiapas, Mexico near Puerto Madero.
This epicenter is at 106 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and at the third node (121 degrees) from Colombia;
and the ninth node (40 degrees from Hurricane Lowell and Flores and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06SEP2026 03:28:31 14.1N 93.3W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 06SEP2026 03:48:45 14.1N 93.4W ML=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 06SEP2026 02:56:32 14.2N 93.2W Mw=5.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in New Ireland was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Ireland in Namatanai, New Ireland, PNG.
This epicenter was at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hurricane Karina and at
the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hurricane Lowell and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hurricane Marie at the time of its occurrence
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 05SEP2026 14:12:07 4.5S 153.7E MW=5.5 EMSC NEW IRELAND REGION, P.N.G.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Washington State was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Washington State with IV in Salkum and Cougar and III in Vancouver, Toledo, Centralia and Ariel and II inOregon, at Portland, Clatskanie.
O: 05SEP2026 11:09:28 46.2N 122.6W ML=3.6 EMSC WASHINGTON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Southern Sumatra was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Sumatra near Pagar Alam.
This may be related to the eruption of nearby volcano Krakatoa (see previous
issues of this summary for details). This epicenter was near 103 degrees
from Hurricane Karina when this earthquake occurred and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 05SEP2026 10:59:15 4.4S 102.8E MB=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
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 with intensity III in Wildomar, Perris, Murieta and II in Winchester, Temecula, Sun City, Oceanside, San Diego, Fallbrook.
O: 05SEP2026 10:31:43 33.5N 117.1W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Romania was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Romania at Galati, Pitesti, Scheia.
O: 06SEP2026 04:04:18 45.6N 26.4E ML=4.1 EMSC ROMANIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in India-Bangladesh was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of India-Bangladesh in Silchar, India and Azimpur, Bangladesh and Dhaka.
O: 06SEP2026 03:36:20 24.6N 92.7E ML=4.0 EMSC INDIA-BANGLADESH BORDER REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-06 00:00 UT 32.0N 95.0W 40 kts Eastern Texas
TS Edouard continued today over eastern Texas with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and made landfall on September 2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and southern Texas upon landfall and for about a day after. The antipode at 32S 86E in the South Indian Ocean is not a seismic area.
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-06 00:00 UT 13.7N 162.8W 140 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today South of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 140 kts (Category 5 storm). It is expected to make a turn to the north and east today and tomorrow. This could bring it near Hawaii as a major hurricane around September 9-11, 2026 where it could promote enhanced seismicity. This storm is antipodal to the southern Africa near 13S 17E - a non seismic area. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-06 00:00 UT 22.0N 143.9W 65 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 65 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may arrive north of Hawaii around September 6-8 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 22S 37E near Madagascar) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity has been noted at 103 and 144 degrees from the eye of Karina and this could continue.
HURRICANE MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR MARIE 2026-09-06 00:00 UT 22.5N 121.5W 100 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
Hurricane Marie (13E) continued today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 100 kts (category 2 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. Some models suggest this storm may change track and threaten Southern and Central California in several days as a moderate hurricane. Some regional seismicity may be enhanced in California if that does occur. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 22S 58E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD KROVANH 2026-09-06 00:00 UT 25.5N 130.2E 40 kts East of Ryukyu Islands
TS Krovanh continued today in the region east of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan with winds up to 40 kts. This storm will be encountering the Ryukyu Islands of Japan around September 5-6 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 25S 51W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-09-06 00:00 UT 23.5N 117.4E 50 kts West of Taiwan north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 24S 63W is a seismic area in northern Chile and Argentina
and could see moderate, deep focus seismicity at this time. This storm is
expected to dissipate in the next day.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7390 1024 1045 1056 C6.4 (September 5, 2026) 6.9E-03
Sumatra M 5.0 10:59 UT
7400 1156 1202 1211 C1.5 (September 5, 2026) 1.1E-03
7430 1504 1518 1527 M1.0 (September 5, 2026) 7.3E-03
7450 1732 1746 1753 C8.5 (September 5, 2026) 6.2E-03
Carlsberg Ridge M 5.3 17:25 UT
Guerrero M 4.2 17:54 UT
Fox Is. M 4.9 18:00 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet September 6 active September 7 unsettled September 8. Solar M-flare chance: 20% X-class: 1% proton storm: 99%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 10, mid-latitude: 6, time of max k: 09:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 4 Global Kp 2.67 0300-0600, September 5; Sunspot Number: 70; Radio Flux: 111 September 5, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current geomagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
September 5, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
It was a relatively quiet day in global seismicity today. Moderate seismicity
occurred at sub-solar latitude (3.0-3.5 North latitude on September 5). These
included earthquakes of M 5.0 in Sumatra and off the coast of Central America.
The earthquakes in Sumatra are occurring at 102 degrees from the current location
of the eye of Hurricane Lowell and were likely promoted by energy from that source.
As Lowell moves north and east in the next two days it will remain near 103 degrees
from northern Sumatra and further enhanced seismicity may occur in that area
in the next several days.
O: 04SEP2026 16:24:38 1.2N 99.0E MB=5.1 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 05SEP2026 03:37:47 3.1N 96.1E ML=4.2 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 05SEP2026 09:14:15 3.2N 96.1E mb=4.5 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
The M 5.0 off the coast of Central America is a somewhat unusual event. It is the
strongest earthquake within about 200 km of today's epicenter since an M 5.1 about 200 km
southwest of today's epicenter on June 29, 2026 and prior to that an M 5.1 on June 29, 2025.
This latitude is also at sub-solar conditions on June 29 each year. One of the
strongest earthquakes in this area in the past 35 years was an M 5.6 on
September 8, 1992 (when the epicenter was at sub-solar condidtions). A similar
M 5.6 also occurred on September 17-18, 2005 and on September 18, 1992 (M 5.1)
so the pattern of sub-solar earthquakes at this location appears well established
in the historical data.
An aftershock of M 4.4 occurred 16 minutes later seconds after the ScS seismic
wave returned to the epicenter and may have been promoted by energy from
that source. This and the mainshock occurred within minutes of local solar
midnight when tidal effects maximize and may have been promoted by energy
from those stressors.
Today's epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Hurricane Karina
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 05SEP2026 05:16:35 3.5N 83.1W MB=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CENTRAL AMERICA
O: 05SEP2026 05:00:06 3.5N 83.2W Mw=5.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CENTRAL AMERICA
A strong volcanic eruption that began yesterday continued today in Krakatoa, Indonesia. Volcanologists quoted in the press describe this as the strongest
eruption of Krakatoa since the massive eruption of 1882. Krakatoa Volcano is located at 6.1S 105.4E. This location was at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lowell (13N 154W) when the eruption began. This location is also within about 150
km of the antipode of the M 7.5 in Colombia of August 10, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 was located in southern
Sumatra aboutthree hours after the Colombia mainshock within 100 km of the
exact antipode of the Colombia event. Events are antipodal if their longitudes
add to 180 degrees (in this case the longitude of Colombia is given as 77.6W
and that of Sumatra quake as 102.4E - a sum of exactly 180) and their signed
latitudes sum to zero (in this case the longitude of the Colombia event is 4.6N
and of the Sumatra event 5.5S - a difference of 0.9 degrees about 100 km
off of exact antipodal events). Geometric focusing at the antipode of a
major quake can produce seismic wave amplitudes which may be strong enough
to trigger antipodal activity as it appears to have done in this case." (November 15, 2004)
The last earthquake in Colombia of M>6.5 occurred 13 years ago on August 13, 2013.
At the time the relation to Sumatra was discussed as:
"This epicenter (in Colombia) is at the exact antipode of an M 5.3 which hit south of Sumatra two days ago and may
have been promoted or triggered by that event. Frequent readers of this
summary know that two epicenters are antipodal if their latitudes are
the same and in opposite hemispheres (6N and 6S in the current pair)
and their longitudes add to 180 and are in opposite hemispheres (78W and
102E in the current pair). Further activity in Sumatra near this epicenter
is likely in the next several days. After this was written an M 4.6 did
occur in this region of Sumatra. The earthquake off Panama is the
strongest to occur in the world since an M 7.2 in the South Sandwich Islands
of July 15, 2013, a month ago. It is also the largset within 200 km of this
epicenter to occur since events of M 7.2 on November 15, 2004; October 18, 1992 and November 19, 1991.
The 10- to 11-year cycle here is probably not coincidental but is forced
by solar activity also on an 11-year cycle." (August 13, 2013)
After a moderate earthquake in Sumatra occurred yesterday this summary discussed
the relation between Sumatra and Colombia earthquakes (see this issue below).
In particular it is worthwhile to note the antipodal relation of today's
event in Colombia with the earlier M 5.3 in Sumatra. Within error limits
imposed by depth and size of the rupture zone, these two are very nearly
exactly antipodal (compare 5S and 5N and 103E and 76W for antipodality." (August 10-11, 2026)
This summary discussed the likelihood of enhanced volcanism in Krakatoa
related to earthquakes in Venezuela (and Colombia) in previous issues.
When an M 7.5 hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026 it was noted:
"With the antipodal (to Venezeula) event of M 5.2-5.6 today south of Java, Indonesia
it is prudent to reexamine the last earthquake in Venezuela of the size
(M 7.5) of the event of June 25. This earthquake occurred on March 26, 1812 and
was associated in time with major earthquakes in New Madrid, Missouri (M 8.1)
and in the Los Angeles, California (December 8, 1812 and December 21, 1812 M 7.0) region of the same year.
What is not often associated with that event in Venezuela was a major
eruption of Tambora Volcano at 9S 118E east of Java in 1815. This is considered
by many geoscientists as the greatest volcanic eruption in modern times.
It released enough gas and particulate matter to darken the earth's skies
for several years after and caused the "year without summer" in 1816 when temperatures
in many areas dropped by significant amounts due to the sky darkening
from that volcanic eruption. This eruption began in 1812 when the "volcano
began to rumble and generated a dark cloud" (Wikipedia and Stothers, 2004, Density of fallen ash after the eruption of Tambora in 1815. Jurnal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research 134 (4), 343-345.
As Tambora is very near the antipode of the
1812 earthquake in Venezuela it is likely this volcanic activity in
Indonesia was promoted by seismic effects from the earthquake in Venezuela.
The last eruption of Tambora occurred on June 20, 2026.
The area of Sumatra and Java east to Sumba in Indonesia is highly volcanic
and many of the greatest recent volcanic eruption have occurred in this
region (including Krakatoa at 6S 105E in the Sunda arc) which experienced
a similar catastrophic eruption sequence from May to October, 1883 also causing global climate and
temperature drops due to the emitted ash cloud. The antipode of Krakatoa
is in Colombia at 6N 75W, another active seismic area. One of the strongest
earthquakes recorded in Colombia was an M 8.0 at 7N 77W on September 7, 1882
months before the eruption at Krakatoa began and very near the antipode
of that volcano. The only other event in Colombia of M>=8 in the historical
catalog was an M 8.2 on June 18, 1826. Krakatoa is currently experience a major period of unrest and
regional geoscientists consider a major eruption is possible at this time
or in the near future.
This brief glimpse into some of the major historical events in Colombia and
Venezuela and subsequent volcanism in the Sunda arc of Venezuela suggests
that the expected seismic regime of that area is likely to see a major
volcanic eruption in the next months as well as the possibility of a
moderately large to large earthquake near the antipode of the Venezuelan
earthquakes. Such an eruption would likely have major consequences in the
near term on global weather and temperatures as seen in 1812-1815 and
in 1882-1883. Mount Merapi in Central Java is an active volcano and is near
the antipode to the Venezuelan earthquakes. Signs of such a pending eruption should be carefully monitored
in coming days." (June 27, 2026)
In addition to being nearly antipodal to the M 7.4 in Colombia of August 10, 2026
this earthquake was also at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lowell at the time
of the start of the volcanic eruption.
O: 03SEP2026 12:00:00 6.1S 105.4E VEI=5 EMSC ERUPTION OF KRAKATOA, SUNDA STRAIT, INDONESIA
O: 10AUG2026 12:34:28 5.0S 76.2W MS=7.4 EMSC COLOMBIA
O: 05SEP2026 10:59:15 4.4S 102.8E ML=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 offshore Oregon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of offshore Oregon in Yachats.
O: 05SEP2026 03:08:53 44.3N 124.9W ML=3.1 EMSC OFFSHORE OREGON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the Central Mid-Atlantic Ridge was note felt.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Chiapas, Mexico
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 04SEP2026 23:38:40 9.5N 40.8W MW=5.1 EMSC CENTRAL MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Cook Strait, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Cook Strait, New Zealand with IV in Wellington at Makara-Ohariu, Kapiti, Wellington and III in Porirua, Lower Hutt, Blenheim, Wanganui, Palmerston North and Masterton.
EMSC reported moderate shaking with loud rumbling in New Zealand at Paraparaumu, Upper Hutt.
GeoNet reported the following data for this event.
O: 04SEP2026 18:34:01 40.7S 174.7E ML=5.1 GEONET Felt with moderate intensity in the area of Southern North Island, New Zealand and northern South Island. 21899 reports of felt events were made of which 4741 reported weak and 10756 light intensity with 5915 reports of moderate shaking and 455 with strong and 18 severe and 12 with extreme intensity came from the area.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 04SEP2026 18:34:01 40.7S 174.7E MW=4.6 EMSC COOK STRAIT, NEW ZEALAND
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-05 00:00 UT 32.0N 95.0W 40 kts Eastern Texas
TS Edouard continued today over eastern Texas with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and made landfall on September 2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and southern Texas upon landfall and for about a day after. The antipode at 32S 86E in the South Indian Ocean is not a seismic area.
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-05 00:00 UT 13.3N 159.8W 150 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today South of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 150 kts (Category 5 storm). It is expected to make a turn to the north and east today and tomorrow. This could bring it near Hawaii as a major hurricane around September 9-11, 2026 where it could promote enhanced seismicity. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift near 13S 20E - a non seismic area. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-05 00:00 UT 21.0N 141.2W 75 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 80 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may arrive north of Hawaii around September 6-8 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 21S 37E near Madagascar) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity has been noted at 103 and 144 degrees from the eye of Karina and this could continue.
HURRICANE MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR MARIE 2026-09-05 00:00 UT 20.7N 118.4W 100 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
Hurricane Marie (13E) continued today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 100 kts (category 2 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. Some models suggest this storm may change track and threaten Southern and Central California in several days as a moderate hurricane. Some regional seismicity may be enhanced in California if that does occur. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 21S 60E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD KROVANH 2026-09-05 00:00 UT 25.4N 129.3E 40 kts East of Ryukyu Islands
TS Krovanh continued today in the region east of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan with winds up to 40 kts. This storm will be encountering the Ryukyu Islands of Japan around September 5-6 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 25S 51W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-09-05 00:00 UT 23.5N 117.4E 50 kts West of Taiwan north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 24S 63W is a seismic area in northern Chile and Argentina
and could see moderate, deep focus seismicity at this time. This storm is
expected to dissipate in the next day.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7150 0238 0244 0250 C1.5 (September 4, 2026) 1.1E-03
7170 0608 0615 0745 C1.3 (September 4, 2026) 8.7E-04
7180 0745 0753 0800 M1.2 (September 4, 2026) 6.1E-03
Honshu M 4.1 07:45 UT
7210 1111 1119 1129 C7.1 (September 4, 2026) 4.8E-03
Kermadec Is. M 5.4 12:00 UT
7220 1258 1305 1312 C2.1 (September 4, 2026) 1.6E-03
Flores M 4.1 13:13 UT
7250 1513 1527 1553 C1.3 (September 4, 2026) 2.9E-03
Papua M 4.1 15:13 UT
Chiapas M 4.2 15:24 UT
Utah M 2.5 15:38 UT
Veracruz M 4.1 15:49 UT
7270 1902 1930 1941 C6.7 (September 4, 2026) 1.1E-02
Chiapas M 3.9 19:03 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 19:13 UT
7300 2102 2121 2131 C1.2 (September 4, 2026) 2.0E-03
El Salvador M 4.2 21:10 UT
Yemen M 2.9 21:31 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 21:29 UT
Costa Rica M 4.5 21:41 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet September 5-6 unsettled September 7. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 4, high: 2, mid-latitude: 4, time of max k: 09:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 2 Global Kp 1.67 0900-1100, September 4; Sunspot Number: 72; Radio Flux: 110 September 4, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 2 over the past 24 hours. The current geomagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
September 4, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong volcanic eruption began today in Krakatoa, Indonesia. Krakatoa Volcano is located at 6.1S 105.4E. This location was at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lowell (13N 154W) when the eruption began. This location is also within about 150
km of the antipode of the M 7.5 in Colombia of August 10, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 was located in southern
Sumatra aboutthree hours after the Colombia mainshock within 100 km of the
exact antipode of the Colombia event. Events are antipodal if their longitudes
add to 180 degrees (in this case the longitude of Colombia is given as 77.6W
and that of Sumatra quake as 102.4E - a sum of exactly 180) and their signed
latitudes sum to zero (in this case the longitude of the Colombia event is 4.6N
and of the Sumatra event 5.5S - a difference of 0.9 degrees about 100 km
off of exact antipodal events). Geometric focusing at the antipode of a
major quake can produce seismic wave amplitudes which may be strong enough
to trigger antipodal activity as it appears to have done in this case." (November 15, 2004)
The last earthquake in Colombia of M>6.5 occurred 13 years ago on August 13, 2013.
At the time the relation to Sumatra was discussed as:
"This epicenter (in Colombia) is at the exact antipode of an M 5.3 which hit south of Sumatra two days ago and may
have been promoted or triggered by that event. Frequent readers of this
summary know that two epicenters are antipodal if their latitudes are
the same and in opposite hemispheres (6N and 6S in the current pair)
and their longitudes add to 180 and are in opposite hemispheres (78W and
102E in the current pair). Further activity in Sumatra near this epicenter
is likely in the next several days. After this was written an M 4.6 did
occur in this region of Sumatra. The earthquake off Panama is the
strongest to occur in the world since an M 7.2 in the South Sandwich Islands
of July 15, 2013, a month ago. It is also the largset within 200 km of this
epicenter to occur since events of M 7.2 on November 15, 2004; October 18, 1992 and November 19, 1991.
The 10- to 11-year cycle here is probably not coincidental but is forced
by solar activity also on an 11-year cycle." (August 13, 2013)
After a moderate earthquake in Sumatra occurred yesterday this summary discussed
the relation between Sumatra and Colombia earthquakes (see this issue below).
In particular it is worthwhile to note the antipodal relation of today's
event in Colombia with the earlier M 5.3 in Sumatra. Within error limits
imposed by depth and size of the rupture zone, these two are very nearly
exactly antipodal (compare 5S and 5N and 103E and 76W for antipodality." (August 10-11, 2026)
This summary discussed the likelihood of enhanced volcanism in Krakatoa
related to earthquakes in Venezuela (and Colombia) in previous issues.
When an M 7.5 hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026 it was noted:
"With the antipodal (to Venezeula) event of M 5.2-5.6 today south of Java, Indonesia
it is prudent to reexamine the last earthquake in Venezuela of the size
(M 7.5) of the event of June 25. This earthquake occurred on March 26, 1812 and
was associated in time with major earthquakes in New Madrid, Missouri (M 8.1)
and in the Los Angeles, California (December 8, 1812 and December 21, 1812 M 7.0) region of the same year.
What is not often associated with that event in Venezuela was a major
eruption of Tambora Volcano at 9S 118E east of Java in 1815. This is considered
by many geoscientists as the greatest volcanic eruption in modern times.
It released enough gas and particulate matter to darken the earth's skies
for several years after and caused the "year without summer" in 1816 when temperatures
in many areas dropped by significant amounts due to the sky darkening
from that volcanic eruption. This eruption began in 1812 when the "volcano
began to rumble and generated a dark cloud" (Wikipedia and Stothers, 2004, Density of fallen ash after the eruption of Tambora in 1815. Jurnal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research 134 (4), 343-345.
As Tambora is very near the antipode of the
1812 earthquake in Venezuela it is likely this volcanic activity in
Indonesia was promoted by seismic effects from the earthquake in Venezuela.
The last eruption of Tambora occurred on June 20, 2026.
The area of Sumatra and Java east to Sumba in Indonesia is highly volcanic
and many of the greatest recent volcanic eruption have occurred in this
region (including Krakatoa at 6S 105E in the Sunda arc) which experienced
a similar catastrophic eruption sequence from May to October, 1883 also causing global climate and
temperature drops due to the emitted ash cloud. The antipode of Krakatoa
is in Colombia at 6N 75W, another active seismic area. One of the strongest
earthquakes recorded in Colombia was an M 8.0 at 7N 77W on September 7, 1882
months before the eruption at Krakatoa began and very near the antipode
of that volcano. The only other event in Colombia of M>=8 in the historical
catalog was an M 8.2 on June 18, 1826. Krakatoa is currently experience a major period of unrest and
regional geoscientists consider a major eruption is possible at this time
or in the near future.
This brief glimpse into some of the major historical events in Colombia and
Venezuela and subsequent volcanism in the Sunda arc of Venezuela suggests
that the expected seismic regime of that area is likely to see a major
volcanic eruption in the next months as well as the possibility of a
moderately large to large earthquake near the antipode of the Venezuelan
earthquakes. Such an eruption would likely have major consequences in the
near term on global weather and temperatures as seen in 1812-1815 and
in 1882-1883. Mount Merapi in Central Java is an active volcano and is near
the antipode to the Venezuelan earthquakes. Signs of such a pending eruption should be carefully monitored
in coming days." (June 27, 2026)
In addition to being nearly antipodal to the M 7.4 in Colombia of August 10, 2026
this earthquake was also at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lowell at the time
of the start of the volcanic eruption.
O: 03SEP2026 12:00:00 6.1S 105.4E VEI=5 EMSC ERUPTION OF KRAKATOA, SUNDA STRAIT, INDONESIA
O: 10AUG2026 12:34:28 5.0S 76.2W MS=7.4 EMSC COLOMBIA
O: 05SEP2026 10:59:15 4.4S 102.8E ML=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.3 in the Fox Islands,
Aleutians, Alaska. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Nikolski, Alaska. Today's earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar
midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour. This follows a strong swarm in the area over the past several
days and had by hypothesized in the previous issue of this summary as
possible at this time as:
"The swarm in the Fox Islands, Aleutians continued today with a number of moderate
sized earthquakes including events of M 5.2 and M 5.3. This area occasionally sees swarms like this preceding
lareg event of M>=6 and this may the case in the current situation.
NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity IV
in Nikolski, Alaska." (September 2, 2026)
The last earthquakes of M>=6.3 in the Fox Islands within about 200 of today's
activity occurred on January 11, 2022 with M 6.6 and M 6.8.
When events occurred this summary noted:
"Strong earthquakes of M 6.8 and M 6.4 shook the region of the Fox Islands, Aleutians, Alaska today. NEIC reported the M 6.8 was felt with intensity VI in Nikolski; IV in Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, Falso Pass and II-III in Akutan, Atka, Cold Bay, and Adak, Alaska. The M 6.4 aftershock was reported with intensity IV in Nikolski, Alaska and III in Unalaska.
An aftershock of M 5.8 was also reported felt with intensity IV in Nikolski and Dutch Harbor, Alaska.
The last earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter in the Fox Islands
with M>=6.8 was an M 6.9 on July 27, 2015 about 150 km west of today's epicenter." (January 11, 2022)
When an M 4.8 occurred south of Africa two days ago, this summary noted
the antipodal relation with the Fox Islands and hypothesized possible
enhanced seismicity in the Fox Islands at this time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the area southwest of Africa. It was
not reported felt in this epicentral region. The antipode of this event is at 52N 168W
in the Fox Islands, Alaska, an area where a moderate sympathetic antipodal
earthquake near 52N 166W could be expected in the next two days." (August 28, 2026)
Today's earthquakes in the Fox Islands are located at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Mindanao and Chiapas; at the fourth node from Colombia and at the ninth node
(40 degrees) from Hurricanes Lowell and Karina and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 03SEP2026 11:17:24 52.3N 169.5W ML=6.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 03SEP2026 20:21:15 52.1N 169.1W ML=5.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 03SEP2026 18:45:39 52.0N 169.2W ML=5.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 03SEP2026 16:11:25 52.3N 169.4W ML=4.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 03SEP2026 13:03:18 52.1N 169.2W ML=5.2 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Twenty-two minutes and 18 seconds after the M 6.3 in the Fox Islands, an earthquake of M 5.4
occurred in eastern Sichuan, China. NEIC reported the earthquake in China was felt with intensity III in Sichuan at Deyang and II in Dawan and Nanchong and in Shaanxi at Xian. Travel time tables give the time for an
SS seismic wave to travel the 63 degrees between the Fox Islands and Sichuan
as 22 minutes 20 seconds. This is therefore an excellent candidate for
triggering by a seismic wave. This earthquake in Sichuan, China occurred
at the start of Solar Flare 7000 (and was accompanied by an M 4.9 within
about a second in the Fox Islands) and these may have been promoted by
strong SFE associated with this solar flare. Data on this flare from
SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7000 1140 1147 1150 C1.1 (September 3, 2026) 5.6E-04
Sichuan, China M 5.4 11:40 UT
Fox Islands M 4.9 11:40 UT
O: 03SEP2026 11:39:42 31.9N 104.5E mb=5.4 EMSC EASTERN SICHUAN, CHINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia in Bogota.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Colombia at Buenaventura, Ulloa, Cali, Envigado, Medellin, San Gil, Remedios.
O: 03SEP2026 05:17:10 4.5N 76.5W mb=4.8 EMSC COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia with IV in Kadungora; ?III in Banyumas and II in Purwokerto, Karawang and Kebumen, Java.
O: 04SEP2026 05:04:54 8.0S 109.0E mb=5.2 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Valparaiso, Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Valparaiso, Chile in Santiago and Vina del Mar.
O: 03SEP2026 21:18:21 31.9S 71.2W mb=4.8 EMSC VALPARAISO, CHILE
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in the Gulf of Paria, Venezuela was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Gulf of Paria, Venezuela in Ciudad Guayana.
This epicenter is near the antipode of the Flores Sea earthquake M 7.7 of
August 14 and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 03SEP2026 23:15:11 10.2N 62.2W ML=5.0 EMSC GULF OF PARIA, VENEZUELA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Northern California in Santa Rosa, Fulton, Larkfield-Wikiup, Windsor, Kenwood, Graton, Sebastopol, Rohnert Park, Novato and La Riviera.
O: 03SEP2026 17:33:27 38.5N 122.7W ML=3.1 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-04 00:00 UT 32.0N 95.0W 40 kts Eastern Texas
TS Edouard continued today over eastern Texas with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and made landfall on September 2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and southern Texas upon landfall and for about a day after. The antipode at 32S 86E in the South Indian Ocean is not a seismic area.
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-04 00:00 UT 13.3N 155.8W 170 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
Hurricane Lowell continued today South of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 170 kts (Category 5 storm). It is expected to make a turn to the north and east today and tomorrow. This could bring it near Hawaii as a major hurricane around September 9-11, 2026 where it could promote enhanced seismicity. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift near 13S 25E and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could also continue.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-04 00:00 UT 20.5N 138.2W 80 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 80 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may reach Hawaii or north of Hawaii around September 6-8 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 20S 38E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity has been noted at 103 and 144 degrees from the eye of Karina and this could continue.
HURRICANE MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR MARIE 2026-09-04 00:00 UT 19.7N 116.4W 105 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
Hurricane Marie (13E) continued today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 105 kts (category 2 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. Some models suggest this storm may change track and threaten Southern and Central California in several days as a moderate hurricane. Some regional seismicity may be enhanced in California if that does occur. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 20S 63E) where some seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 degrees from this storm has been noted and may continue.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KROVANH 2026-09-04 00:00 UT 26.5N 128.3E 45 kts East of Ryukyu Islands
TS Krovanh continued today in the region east of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan with winds up to 45 kts. This storm will be encountering the Ryukyu Islands of Japan around September 3-6 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 27S 51W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-09-04 00:00 UT 23.5N 117.4E 50 kts West of Taiwan north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 24S 63W is a seismic area in northern Chile and Argentina
and could see moderate, deep focus seismicity at this time. This storm is
expected to dissipate in the next day.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6990 0935 0942 0948 C2.2 (September 3, 2026) 1.2E-03
7000 1140 1147 1150 C1.1 (September 3, 2026) 5.6E-04
Sichuan, China M 5.4 11:40 UT
Fox Islands M 4.9 11:40 UT
7010 1152 1159 1205 C4.2 (September 3, 2026) 2.2E-03
Fox Islands M 3.6 11:53 UT
7020 1436 1446 1452 C6.9 (September 3, 2026) 3.4E-03
Fox Islands M 4.2 14:39 UT
7030 1613 1630 1822 C7.9 (September 3, 2026) 1.9E-02
Fox Islands M 4.8 16:11 UT M 4.3 16:30 UT
7060 1822 1829 1833 C3.0 (September 3, 2026) 1.8E-03
Fiji M 5.0 18:31 UT
7090 1955 2003 2016 C3.7 (September 3, 2026) 4.1E-03
Fox Islands M 5.5 20:21 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet September 4-6. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 3, mid-latitude: 6, time of max k: 06:00-09:00 UT; Max k: 2 Global Kp 2.33 0000-0300, September 3; Sunspot Number: 37; Radio Flux: 108 September 3, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 2 over the past 24 hours. The current goemagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
September 3, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current geomagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.3 in the Fox Islands,
Aleutians, Alaska. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Nikolski, Alaska. Today's earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar
midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour. This follows a strong swarm in the area over the past several
days and had by hypothesized in the previous issue of this summary as
possible at this time as:
"The swarm in the Fox Islands, Aleutians continued today with a number of moderate
sized earthquakes including events of M 5.2 and M 5.3. This area occasionally sees swarms like this preceding
lareg event of M>=6 and this may the case in the current situation.
NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity IV
in Nikolski, Alaska." (September 2, 2026)
The last earthquakes of M>=6.3 in the Fox Islands within about 200 of today's
activity occurred on January 11, 2022 with M 6.6 and M 6.8.
When events occurred this summary noted:
"Strong earthquakes of M 6.8 and M 6.4 shook the region of the Fox Islands, Aleutians, Alaska today. NEIC reported the M 6.8 was felt with intensity VI in Nikolski; IV in Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, Falso Pass and II-III in Akutan, Atka, Cold Bay, and Adak, Alaska. The M 6.4 aftershock was reported with intensity IV in Nikolski, Alaska and III in Unalaska.
An aftershock of M 5.8 was also reported felt with intensity IV in Nikolski and Dutch Harbor, Alaska.
The last earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter in the Fox Islands
with M>=6.8 was an M 6.9 on July 27, 2015 about 150 km west of today's epicenter." (January 11, 2022)
When an M 4.8 occurred south of Africa two days ago, this summary noted
the antipodal relation with the Fox Islands and hypothesized possible
enhanced seismicity in the Fox Islands at this time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the area southwest of Africa. It was
not reported felt in this epicentral region. The antipode of this event is at 52N 168W
in the Fox Islands, Alaska, an area where a moderate sympathetic antipodal
earthquake near 52N 166W could be expected in the next two days." (August 28, 2026)
Today's earthquakes in the Fox Islands are located at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Mindanao and Chiapas; at the fourth node from Colombia and at the ninth node
(40 degrees) from Hurricanes Lowell and Karina and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 03SEP2026 11:17:24 52.3N 169.5W ML=6.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 07:15:05 52.1N 169.3W ML=3.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 09:20:30 52.1N 169.2W ML=4.1 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 09:59:30 52.1N 169.1W ML=3.7 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 19:35:52 52.1N 169.3W ML=3.4 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 07:12:42 52.2N 169.3W mb=4.0 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 08:35:36 52.2N 169.1W ML=3.4 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 08:55:53 52.2N 169.3W ML=3.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 12:31:57 52.2N 169.4W mb=5.2 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Twenty-two minutes and 18 seconds after the M 6.3 in the Fox Islands, an earthquake of M 5.4
occurred in eastern Sichuan, China. NEIC reported the earthquake in China was felt with intensity III in Sichuan at Deyang and II in Dawan and Nanchong and in Shaanxi at Xian. Travel time tables give the time for an
SS seismic wave to travel the 63 degrees between the Fox Islands and Sichuan
as 22 minutes 20 seconds. This is therefore an excellent candidate for
triggering by a seismic wave.
O: 03SEP2026 11:39:42 31.9N 104.5E mb=5.4 EMSC EASTERN SICHUAN, CHINA
A strong M 6.2 earthquake also occurred today in the South Sandwich Islands. It was not reported
felt in this remote epicentral area. The last earthquakes in the South Sandwich Islands
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.2 occurred on July 11, 2026 with
M 6.4 and August 12, 2021 with M 7.5. At that time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.4 in the South Sandwich
Islands of the southern Atlantic region. It was not reported felt in this
remote area. A tsunami was neither expected nor observed with this earthquake. The last earthquake of M>=6.4 in the South Sandwich Islands was
an M 7.1 on August 22, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 7.0-7.1 in the South Sandwich
Island, the strongest aftershock to date of the August 12, 2021 M 8.1 and is
approximately the size of the earthquake in Haiti of August 14 (M 7.2).
It was accompanied by a strong series of earthquakes including an M 5.8.
Tidal stresses (see above) were near their maximum in the South Sandwich Islands
today with the full moon and probably helped enhance this activity." (August 22, 2021)
Today's earthquake in the South Sandwich Islands follows a series of moderate
to strong earthquakes which began in early July. This series was discussed
in the previous issue of this summary as:
"The strongest earthquake of the day in the world was an M 5.4 in the South Sandwich
Islands area of the South Atlantic. This area has seen seismic enhancement since
the full moon of June 29, 2026 including an M 4.9 several hours before today's
event. It had been near local solar midnight when that full moon was finalized
and was expected (by this summary) to see subsequent seismic enhancement
at this time ...
Further activity in the South Sandwich Islands is expected at this time. This
includes the possibility of a strong regional earthquake in the next several
days. The area was strong influenced by the strong geomagnetic storm of the
past several days as noted in this summary in previous issues:
"A series of earthquakes occurred at various epicenters in the South Sandwich
Islands and southwest of Africa with moderate intensity. These were all
oceanic events and were not felt in the epicentral area. This area was
near local solar noon at the time of the full moon of June 29, 2026
and had been expected to see enhanced seismicity at this time in the
seismic forecast in this summary .. " (July 3, 2026, July 11, 2026)
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from the landfall position of Typhoon Bavi
today and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Venezuela and may have been promoted
by constructive interference of energy from those sources." (July 11, 2026)
Today's epicenter is at 103 degrees from Hurricane Marie; the third node (120 degrees)
from Hurricane Lowell; the forth node (90 degrees) from Chiapas and the fifth
node (72 degrees) from Colombia and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 02SEP2026 23:46:56 56.1S 27.9W Mw=6.2 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
O: 02SEP2026 10:54:02 56.4S 26.8W Mw=5.2 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.9 in the Southern East Pacific Rise was not felt in this
remote area. This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since
an M 6.0 on May 5, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.0 in the South East Pacific Rise.
It was followed by an M 4.9 aftershock. Neither of these events was reported by NEIC to have been felt in this remote area.
This earthquake occurred at the height of a geomagnetic storm with regional
Kp about 6-7 at the time of the earthquake and was probably promoted by energy
associated with that storm.
This is the strongest earthquake in the southern East Pacific Rise within about 400
km of this epicenter since an M 6.7 on May 19, 2021 and prior to that an M 6.1 on June 15, 2008.
At the time of the event in 2021 this summary noted:
"Following landfall of Tauktae, a strong earthquake occurred at the antipode
of this storm in the South East Pacific Rise with M 6.6. This event was
an expected consequence of TC Tauktae as discussed above. The only earthquake
of larger magnitude in this region of the Southeast Pacific Rise in the past
30 years was an M 7.2 on October 9, 2014. At the time of this earthquake
in October, 2014, this summary noted:
"A major earthquake of M 7.0-7.1 hit the Southeast Pacific Rise near Easter Island today. This
is an area and tectonic system in which an event of this size will not generate
a sizable tsunami. The epicenter was near the triple junction of the East Pacific
Rise. The mainshock was followed by an M 6.0-6.5 aftershock 17 minutes later.
An ScS phase returning to the epicenter after reflecting off the core-mantle boundary
could have triggered the strong aftershock as it arrived 1-2 minutes prior to this event. This is the strongest earthquake ever recorded within 400 km of this epicenter.
The previous largest event was an M 7.0 on March 20, 1920, the only event of M>6.9
previously recorded in the region. An M 6.6 hit the region on October 28, 1981 and an
M 6.8 occurred in July, 1949 and again in July, 1950. This suggests about a 31-32 year
incubation period for strong earthquakes in this area (1920, 1950, 1981, 2014). In addition to tidal stresses from the full moon today, this event may have
been promoted by a pair of M-class solar flares which occurred about 15 minutes
before the quake initiated. At this point M-class flares are relatively rare.
In the past month there have been only six M1.3 -class flares or larger recorded.
The last of these was an M7.3 on October 2. The antipode of this event is
in the Pakistan-Afghanistan border region at 32N 69E." (October 9-10, 2014, May 19, 2021)
The epicenter in the Southeast Pacific Rise is antipodal to an active area of
Hindu Kush, Afghanistan, and while it is relatively small for triggering
far-field earthquakes, the Pacific event may enhance seismicity in Afghanistan
and Pakistan in the next several days due to its antipodal position." (May 5, 2025)
and
"Following landfall of Tauktae, a strong earthquake occurred at the antipode
of this storm in the South East Pacific Rise with M 6.6. This event was
an expected consequence of TC Tauktae as discussed above. The only earthquake
of larger magnitude in this region of the Southeast Pacific Rise in the past
30 years was an M 7.2 on October 9, 2014." (May 19, 2021)
This epicenter is antipodal to an earthquake in Afghanistan yesterday as reported
in the previous issue of this summary:
"EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Central Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Afghanistan in Bagrami, Kabul, and Chandal Ba'i.
O: 02SEP2026 01:47:22 34.4N 69.5E MB=4.2 EMSC CENTRAL AFGHANISTAN " (September 2, 2026)
Today's earthquake in the South Pacific Rise was near the seventh node from
Colombia and Chiapas and Hurricane Marie (52 degrees) and at the sixth node
(60 degrees) from Hurricane Karina and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 02SEP2026 12:35:58 34.9S 109.1W Mw=5.9 EMSC SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
The earthquake in the Southern East Pacific Rise (see above) followed a moderately strong
earthquake off shore Chiapas, Mexico 7 minutes 26 seconds later at a distance
of 51.4 degrees (node 7). The p-wave from Mexico would have arrived in the
South Pacific Rise epicentral area within seconds of the time of this M 5.9
and may have helped promote the M 5.9 in the East Pacific. The M 5.6 in
Chiapas today is the strongest aftershock in Chiapas, Mexico of July 17, 2026 since an M
5.7 on August 18 and an M 5.9 on July 28 and is the third strongest aftershock
since the date of the mainshock.
This epicenter in Chiapas, Mexico is at 20 degrees from Hurricane Marie; 40 degrees
from Hurricane Karina and 60 degrees from Hurricane Lowell and 145 degrees from
Flores, Indonesia and may have been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 03SEP2026 09:09:58 16.3N 93.6W ML=4.1 EMSC CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 12:58:03 14.0N 93.4W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 13:04:59 14.0N 93.5W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 13:43:14 14.2N 93.3W mb=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 16:50:35 14.2N 93.6W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 03SEP2026 07:49:26 14.2N 93.2W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 18:43:23 14.3N 93.2W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 12:54:48 14.4N 93.2W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 02SEP2026 12:28:32 14.5N 93.0W Mw=5.6 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 03SEP2026 05:36:02 15.0N 92.9W ML=4.3 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Coquimbo, Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Coquimbo Chile in La Serena (IV) and Vicuna (III).
EMSC reported intensity III-IV in Chile in Vallenar, Coquimbo, La Serena, Coquimbo.
O: 03SEP2026 06:04:02 29.8S 71.5W Mw=5.1 EMSC OFFSHORE COQUIMBO, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia in Bogota.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Colombia at Buenaventura, Ulloa, Cali, Envigado, Medellin, San Gil, Remedios.
O: 03SEP2026 05:17:10 4.5N 76.5W mb=4.8 EMSC COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Vanuatu may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Isangel, Vanuatu.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 02SEP2026 21:22:08 20.3S 169.4E Mw=5.4 EMSC VANUATU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Bulolo, Papua New Guinea.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Hurricane Marie and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 02SEP2026 20:04:32 7.1S 146.2E Mw=5.4 EMSC EASTERN NEW GUINEA REG., P.N.G
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in eastern Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern Los Angeles, California with IV in Brea and III in Anaheim, Ontario, Chino, Norco, Mira Loma, Corona, Rosemead.
O: 02SEP2026 12:37:12 34.0N 117.6W ML=3.1 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
O: 02SEP2026 12:37:12 34.0N 117.6W ML=3.2 NEIC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Costa Rica in David, Panama.
O: 02SEP2026 23:29:31 9.2N 84.1W ML=4.0 EMSC COSTA RICA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-03 00:00 UT 32.0N 95.0W 40 kts Eastern Texas
TS Edouard continued today over eastern Texas with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and made landfall on September 2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and southern Texas upon landfall and for about a day after. The antipode at 32S 86E in the South Indian Ocean is not a seismic area.
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-03 00:00 UT 13.3N 154.0W 165 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today South of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 165 kts (Category 5 storm). It intensified greatly yesterday in the North Pacific and is expected to make a turn to the north and east today and tomorrow. This could bring it near Hawaii as a major hurricane around September 9-11, 2026 where it could promote enhanced seismicity. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift near 13S 25E and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time. Enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lowell has been noted and could continue.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-03 00:00 UT 19.2N 134.2W 140 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 140 kts (category 4-5 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may reach Hawaii or north of Hawaii around September 6-8 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 19S 46E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time. Enhanced seismicity has been noted at 103 and 144 degrees from the eye of Karina and this could continue.
TROPICAL STORM MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS MARIE 2026-09-03 00:00 UT 14.0N 112.3W 75 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
TS Marie (13E) formed today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 75 kts (category 2 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. Some models suggest this storm may change track and threaten Southern and Central California in several days as a moderate hurricane. Some regional seismicity may be enhanced in California if that does occur. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 14S 67E) where some seismic enhancement is likely at this time.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KROVANH 2026-09-03 00:00 UT 26.5N 129.3E 50 kts East of Ryukyu Islands
TS Krovanh continued today in the region east of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan with winds up to 50 kts. This storm will be encountering the Ryukyu Islands of Japan around September 3-6 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 27S 51W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-09-03 00:00 UT 23.5N 117.4E 50 kts West of Taiwan north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 24S 63W is a seismic area in northern Chile and Argentina
and could see moderate, deep focus seismicity at this time. This storm is
expected to dissipate in the next day.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6830 1309 1321 1327 C1.2 (September 2, 2026) 9.5E-04
6850 1533 1547 1604 C1.3 (September 2, 2026) 2.0E-03
6870 1618 1630 1639 C1.5 (September 2, 2026) 1.5E-03
6890 1857 1920 2130 M3.0 (September 2, 2026) 5.7E-02 *
New Guinea M 5.4 20:04 UT
Vanuatu M 5.4 21:22 UT
South Sandwich Is. M 6.2 23:46 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet September 3-5. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 8, mid-latitude: 6, time of max k: 06:00-09:00 UT; Max k: 4 Global Kp 2.33 0600-0900, September 2; Sunspot Number: 73; Radio Flux: 102 September 2, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current goemagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
September 2, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
An unusual series of moderate earthquakes occurred today in the Mid-Indian Ridge.
These events of M 4.6, 4.6 and 4.7 are the strongest earthquakes recorded
within about 200 km of these epicenters since an M 5.5 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. These events (Cosme and the Indian Ocean quakes)
events (and the foreshock) are exactly antipodal (within 50 km) of each other and illustrate
the seismic triggering potential of major oceanic storms. Readers can
check antipodality of these from the following data with storm data from JTWC
(Joint Typhoon Warming Center) and earthquake data from EMSC:
TROPICAL STORM COSME (03E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS COSME 2025-06-08 00:00 UT 14.9N 113.7W 090 kts West of Michoacan, Mexico
Tropical Storm Cosme 03E continued today in the area off southwestern Mexico with winds up to 80 kts. It is expected to track to the north over the next several days reaching an area near Cabo San Lucas, Baja Mexico around June 10. After that it could help promote seismicity in the region of the Gulf of California and Baja, Mexico. It will pass over the currently active area of Revilla Gigedo, Mexico in the next two days and could help enhance existing seismicity in that area. The antipode is at 15S 67.0E in the South Indian Ocean, an area where an M 5.5 occurred within an hour of this TS initiation. It is likely that
antipodal effects associated with TS Cosme and /or Barbara triggered the earthquakes
in the Indian Ocean coincident with the TS formation.
TROPICAL STORM BARBARA (02E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS BARBARA 2025-06-09 00:00 UT 17.9N 106.5W 080 kts West of Michoacan, Mexico
Tropical Storm Barbara 02E continued today in the area off southwestern Mexico with winds up to 80 kts. It is expected to track to the north over the next several days reaching an area near Cabo San Lucas, Baja Mexico around June 10. After that it could help promote seismicity in the region of the Gulf of California and Baja, Mexico. It will pass over the currently active area of Revilla Gigedo, Mexico in the next two days and could help enhance existing seismicity in that area. The antipode is at 17S 74.5E in the South Indian Ocean, an area where an M 5.5 occurred within an hour of this TS initiation ..." (June 7, 2025)
Today's swarm was likewise closely related to a series of tropical cyclones
off the southern coast of Baja California - at the same position as Cosme was
in June 7, 2025. The current storms included Hurricane Karina
and Hurricane Marie. Each of these began within about 100 km of the antipode
of the epicenters in the Indian Ocean. In particular, TS Marie formed over the
past day at the antipode of the events in the Indian Ocean concurrent
with those antipodal events. This summary had noted this at the time
and hypothesized subsequent enhanced seismicity in the Indian Ocean as:
"TS Karina formed today South of Baja California with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 13S 66E) where some seismic enhancement is possible at this time." (August 28, 2026)
and
"TS Marie (13E) formed today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 75 kts (category 2 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. Some models suggest this storm may change track and threaten Southern and Central California in several days as a moderate hurricane. Some regional seismicity may be enhanced in California if that does occur. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 14S 67E) where some seismic enhancement is likely at this time." (September 2, 2026)
In addition to being antipodal to Hurricane Marie these epicenters are also
at 143 degrees from Hurricane Lowell and the M 7.4 in Colombia and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01SEP2026 22:37:44 13.2S 66.5E MB=4.6 EMSC MID-INDIAN RIDGE
O: 01SEP2026 23:45:24 13.2S 66.6E mb=4.6 EMSC MID-INDIAN RIDGE
O: 01SEP2026 22:42:10 13.3S 66.6E mb=4.7 EMSC MID-INDIAN RIDGE
The swarm in the Fox Islands, Aleutians continued today with a number of moderate
sized earthquakes including events of M 5.2 and M 5.3. This area occasionally sees swarms like this preceding
lareg event of M>=6 and this may the case in the current situation.
NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity IV
in Nikolski, Alaska.
The last earthquakes of M>=5.3 in the Fox Islands within about 200 of today's
activity occurred on May 22 and 23, 2026 with M 5.3 and M 5.6. When an M 6.1 occurred
on February 23, 2026 within about 100 km of today's epicenters this summary
noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 6.1 in the Fox Islands,
Aleutians, Alaska. It was followed by an M 5.5 aftershock.
NEIC reported these events were likely felt near Nikolski, Alaska with intensity up to IV.
The M 4.4 occurred near local solar midninght and may have been promoted by tidal and geomagnetic effects." (February 23, 2026)
When an M 4.8 occurred south of Africa two days ago, this summary noted
the antipodal relation with the Fox Islands and hypothesized possible
enhanced seismicity in the Fox Islands at this time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the area southwest of Africa. It was
not reported felt in this epicentral region. The antipode of this event is at 52N 168W
in the Fox Islands, Alaska, an area where a moderate sympathetic antipodal
earthquake near 52N 166W could be expected in the next two days." (August 28, 2026)
Today's earthquakes in the Fox Islands are located at 101 degrees from Colombia
at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Hurricane Karina; at the seventh node (52 degrees) from
Hurricane Lowell and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01SEP2026 16:50:59 52.0N 169.3W ML=3.2 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 06:52:12 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:19:35 52.1N 169.3W ML=3.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:30:15 52.1N 169.3W ML=4.1 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:39:34 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.1 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 08:06:48 52.1N 169.3W ML=4.1 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 08:18:45 52.1N 169.2W ML=4.2 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 08:39:12 52.1N 169.3W ML=3.1 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 09:02:40 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.6 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 09:49:01 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 15:10:27 52.1N 169.3W ML=3.4 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 18:42:50 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.1 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 05:18:15 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.9 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 05:40:52 52.1N 169.2W mb=4.6 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 07:15:05 52.1N 169.3W ML=3.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 06:44:36 52.2N 169.4W Mw=5.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 06:56:33 52.2N 169.3W ML=3.2 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:05:59 52.2N 169.3W ML=4.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:12:40 52.2N 169.3W ML=3.7 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:26:51 52.2N 169.3W ML=3.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 08:35:06 52.2N 169.3W ML=3.4 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 10:25:23 52.2N 169.2W ML=3.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 13:47:15 52.2N 169.4W mb=4.6 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 20:47:12 52.2N 169.4W ML=4.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 22:33:15 52.2N 169.3W ML=3.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 05:10:27 52.2N 169.3W mb=4.9 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 05:14:00 52.2N 169.3W mb=5.2 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 05:54:58 52.2N 169.3W mb=4.6 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 07:12:42 52.2N 169.3W mb=4.0 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:45:39 52.3N 169.4W mb=4.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 02SEP2026 06:42:19 52.3N 169.3W ML=4.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 5.2 and M 5.3 in South Island, New Zealand were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of South Island, New Zealand with IV in Wanaka, Otago and III in Queenstown, Cromwell, Te Anau, Alexandra and II in Oqmaru, Canterbury, Gore, Palmerston, Clyde, Otago.
These are the strongest earthquakes in central South Island near Arthur's Point since an
M 5.5 on June 24, 2020. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.5-6.0 shook the area of southwestern South Island, New Zealand today. NEIC repored maximum shaking IV in Te Anau and II-III in Queenstown, Wanaka, Riverton, Invercargil, Southland and Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand.
GEONET reported 3737 people felt this quake with 1892 with weak intensity; 1483 with light intensity and 328 with moderate intensity. 24 reported strong shaking, 4 with severe intensity and 6 extreme intensity.
GeoNet reported M 5.9-6.0 for this event the preferred magnitude from the local network. The epicenter is at 104 degrees from the epicenter of the M 7.5-7.7 in Oaxaca,
Mexico yesterday and was likely promoted by concentrated energy from that source
(at 103 degrees distance) is expected in previous issues of this report (see above).
The last earthquake in South Island, New Zealand with M>=6 within about 200 km
of today's epicenter occurred on August 5, 2009 with M 6.1 following a mainshock of M 7.7 on July 15, 2009.
Forecast 125215 had expected today's activity in the area in this region was
likely around June 24. This epicenter is at 104-105 degrees from the M 7.7
earthquake in Oaxaca, Mexico yesterday and was probably promoted by concentrated
energy from that source." (June 24, 2020)
GeoNet reported the following data for these events:
O: 02SEP2026 07:12:41 44.4S 168.3E ML=4.6 GEONET Felt with moderate intensity in the area south of Te Anau, South Island. 391 reports of felt intensity came from the area east and north of the epicenter including 286 with weak intensity; 97 light; 8 moderate; 0 strong; 0 severe and 0 extreme.
O: 02SEP2026 07:39:03 44.4S 168.3E ML=4.8 GEONET Felt with moderate intensity in the area south of Te Anau, South Island. 805 reports of felt intensity came from the area east and north of the epicenter including 475 with weak intensity; 266 light; 62 moderate; 1 strong; 0 severe and 1 extreme.
Today's epicenters are at 106 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and at the fourth node from
Hurricane Marie (90 degrees) and were likely promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 02SEP2026 06:13:34 44.4S 168.3E MB=5.3 EMSC SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
O: 02SEP2026 06:57:13 44.4S 168.3E Mw=5.2 EMSC SOUTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
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 Middletown.
O: 02SEP2026 03:49:01 38.8N 122.6W MD=2.6 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Papua, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Papua, Indonesia in Abepura with intensity IV.
O: 02SEP2026 00:04:55 3.3S 139.3E MB=5.6 EMSC PAPUA, INDONESIA
O: 02SEP2026 10:45:53 2.4S 139.0E ML=4.0 EMSC NEAR N COAST OF PAPUA, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines with intensity IV in San Jose, Kiblawan, Davao del Sur, Buayan and II-III in Katangawan, Balutakay, Barra and Carpenter Hill.
A small foreshock occurred yesterday and this summary noted it as:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in the Mindanao, Philippines aftershock zone was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Mindanao, Philippines aftershock zone.
This latitude (5 North) is currently at sub-solar conditions on this date with
the sun directly overhead at local solar noon. These conditions can lead to
enhanced seismicity at this latitude and a stronger earthquakes in the aftershock
zone of Mindanao (following the M 7.8 of June 7, 2026) may follow in the next
couple of days. Like the current circumstances, the mainshock in June followed
a major geomagnetic storm and lies near the geomagnetic equator, both
conditions which could contribute to higher magnitudes at this time." (September 1, 2026)
O: 01SEP2026 13:22:31 5.2N 125.8E MW=5.3 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Southern Texas was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Texas in Falls City, and Hobson.
This area near Falls City has seen a number of light earthquakes in the
past several years. But events of M>=3.5 have been a rare occurrence.
The last such events within about 100 km of today's epicenter occurred on July 12, 2026
also with M 3.6 but the last of larger magnitude was an M 4.5 on January 30, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"A moderate M 4.5 earthquake occurred in the Falls City, Southern Texas region today. NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with maximum intensity V in Southern Texas at Gillett, Bastrop; IV in Ecleto, Falls City, Hobson, Karnes City, Kenedy, Poth, Runge, Stockdale, San Antonio; III in Whitney, Richmond, Devine, Jourdanton, Kerrville, Pleasanton, Adkins, Cibolo, Converse, Floresville, La Vernia, Marion, New Braunfels, Nixon, Saint Hedwig, Schertz, Seguin, Smiley, Sutherland Springs, Yorktown, San Antonio, Burnet, Del Valle, Elgin, Leander, Manor, Round Rock Austin and as far as 200 km from the epicenter.
It may have been promoted by the new moon which arrived today as described in this
summary as:
...
This earthquake follows a series of minor to moderate quakes in the area over the past several years and has been
covered in this summary. Two earthquakes of M>=4.5 have hit this area within about
200 km of this epicenter in the past 35 years - an M 4.8 on October 20, 2011 and an M 4.7 on February 7, 2024. When the M 4.4 and 4.7 hit the area on
February 17, 2024, this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.7 in southern Texas. This event was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity up to VI in Falls City, Texas.
Aftershocks of M 3.7 and 3.3 followed and were felt in the same area. EMSC reported
the mainshocks were felt as far as San Antonio where beds shook and people were awakened. It followed
a series of foreshocks including an M 4.4 twelve minutes earlier which was felt with intensity
up to V in Falls City, Texas. An M 3.9 foreshock was also felt with intensity up to
V in the Falls City area of Texas. Today's activity occurred within minutes
of local solar midnight and may have been promoted by strong tidal stresses ..." (January 30, 2025)
Today's event in southern Texas occured simultaneously with the landfall
of Tropical Storm Edouard on the coast of Texas. On August 31, this summary
anticipated this possible seismic enhancement with the landfall of TS Edouard
as:
"TS Edouard formed today off southern Louisiana with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will make landfall on September 1-2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and Texas upong landfall. The antipode at 29S 88E is not a seismic area." (August 31, 2026)
O: 01SEP2026 14:26:42 28.9N 98.1W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN TEXAS
O: 01SEP2026 14:26:42 28.9N 98.1W ML=3.6 NEIC SOUTHERN TEXAS
O: 01SEP2026 18:26:48 28.9N 98.1W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN TEXAS
O: 01SEP2026 19:23:08 28.9N 98.1W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN TEXAS
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in Halmahera, Indonesia.
NEIC reported it may have been felt with intensity up to VI in the epicentral area near Maba, Indonesia.
This epicenter was at 103 degrees from the eye of of Hurricane Karina when this
earthquake occurred. This is similar to the distance from Flores Sea event of
M 5.5 earlier in the day with Hurricane Lowell (see below) and suggests
seismic promotion at this distance from these two storms. This has been
observed and commented on in this summary on many previous occasions and
probably should not be considered coincidental.
O: 01SEP2026 08:22:22 0.3N 128.8E MB=5.6 EMSC HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
O: 01SEP2026 08:22:20 0.2N 128.8E MB=5.6 NEIC HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Central Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Afghanistan in Bagrami, Kabul, and Chandal Ba'i.
O: 02SEP2026 01:47:22 34.4N 69.5E MB=4.2 EMSC CENTRAL AFGHANISTAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia in Cianjur, Bogor, Depok, and Serpong.
O: 01SEP2026 10:53:10 6.9S 107.1E ML=4.3 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-02 00:00 UT 31.0N 94.0W 40 kts Eastern Texas
TS Edouard continued today over eastern Texas with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and made landfall on September 2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and southern Texas upong landfall. The antipode at 31S 86E is not a seismic area.
HURRICANE LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LOWELL 2026-09-02 00:00 UT 13.0N 151.0W 170 kts North Pacific south of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today South of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 170 kts (Category 5 storm). It intensified greatly today in the North Pacific and is expected to make a turn to the north and east today and tomorrow. This could bring it near Hawaii as a major hurricane around September 9-11, 2026 where it could promote enhanced seismicity. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift near 13S 27E and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-02 00:00 UT 18.0N 131.3W 145 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 145 kts (category 4-5 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may reach Hawaii or north of Hawaii around September 6-8 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 18S 47E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time.
TROPICAL STORM MARIE (13E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS MARIE 2026-09-02 00:00 UT 14.0N 112.3W 75 kts South of Baja California, Mexico
TS Marie (13E) formed today south of Baja California, Mexico with winds up to 75 kts (category 2 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate local seismic hazard to the region at this time. Some models suggest this storm may change track and threaten Southern and Central California in several days as a moderate hurricane. Some regional seismicity may be enhanced in California if that does occur. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 14S 67E) where some seismic enhancement is likely at this time.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KROVANH 2026-09-02 00:00 UT 24.5N 131.3E 45 kts East of Ryukyu Islands
TS Krovanh continued today in the region east of Taiwan and the Ryukyu Islands, Japan with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity at this time but this could change as it tracks to the northwest over the next week encountering the Ryukyu and Kyushu Islands of Japan around September 4-6 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 25S 49W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-09-02 00:00 UT 21.5N 116.4E 50 kts West of Taiwan north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 50 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 22S 65W is a seismic area in Bolivia and northern Chile
and could see moderate seismicity at this time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of September 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1900 1920 2130 M3.0 (September 2, 2026) 3.0E-03
New Guinea M 5.4 20:04 UT
Vanuatu M 5.4 21:22 UT
South Sandwich Is. M 6.2 23:46 UT
6740 2104 2110 2112 C5.7 (September 1, 2026) 1.3E-03
New Mexico M 2.4 21:09 UT
6750 2240 2246 2254 C1.1 (September 1, 2026) 9.3E-04
Mid-Indian Ridge M 4.2, M 4.7 22:37 UT 22:42 UT
Vera Cruz, Mexico M 4.0 22:55 UT
6760 2317 2338 2358 C1.9 (September 1, 2026) 3.7E-03
Mid-Indian Ridge M 4.6 23:45 UT
Azerbaijan M 3.9 23:39 UT
Papua M 5.67 00:04 UT
Kyushu M 4.0 23:24 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet September 2-4. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 7, high: 8, mid-latitude: 8, time of max k: 12:00-15:00 UT; Max k: 4 Global Kp 2.67 0900-1200, September 1; Sunspot Number: 55; Radio Flux: 101 September 1, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current goemagnetic storm
has now drawn to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
September 1, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. No major solar flares were observed. The current goemagnetic storm
is apparently drawing to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in Halmahera, Indonesia.
NEIC reported it may have been felt with intensity up to VI in the epicentral area near Maba, Indonesia.
This epicenter was at 103 degrees from the eye of of Hurricane Karina when this
earthquake occurred. This is similar to the distance from Flores Sea event of
M 5.5 earlier in the day with Hurricane Lowell (see below) and suggests
seismic promotion at this distance from these two storms. This has been
observed and commented on in this summary on many previous occasions and
probably should not be considered coincidental.
O: 01SEP2026 08:22:22 0.3N 128.8E MB=5.6 EMSC HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
The second strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.5 aftershock in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence.
NEIC reported it was likely felt with intensity up to VI inthe epicentral area near Ruteng, Indonesia.
This is the strongest aftershock in the region since an M 5.7 on August 20, 2026.
It may have been promoted by the tidal effects oif the full moon and lunar eclipse
of August 28 and it occurred at a longitude of maximum stress with that
alignment as reported in previous issues of this summary:
"The full moon and lunar eclipse will arrive on August 28, 2026 at 04:18 UT. This eclipse will be a partial visible in the Americas, Europe and Africa with peak at 04:14 UT.i The maximum eclipse will be visible in Bolivia and northern Chile and southern Peru where the M 6.7 occurred several days ago. Lunar eclipses following two weeks after solar eclipses often continue enhanced seismicity begun with the solar eclipse and can trigger new seismicity in areas where the eclipse is visible. This is the largest magnitude partial lunar eclipse of the Saros 138 series which lasts for 1450 years starting in 1521 and ending in 2982 so it is significant in that sense. This in turn, considerably enhances tidal stresses (at the inverse third power of distance) and can lead to larger global earthquakes within a couple of days of the full moon. Longitudes at local solar noon are near 115 East and those at local solar midnight are near 65 West longitude. In the west these include the northern and Eastern Caribbean as well as areas of western South America while in the East longitudes near 120 E are located in the Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia among others. These are the most likely areas to see tidal triggering at this time, but other areas could see significant enhancement in seismicity in the next several days. These would most likely see seismic enhancement near local solar noon or midnight. A strong to major earthquake is considered likely with this new moon." (August 25-26, 2026)
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
It is also near 102 degrees from the eye of Tropical Storm Lowell at the time
of occurrence. The mainshock of August 14, 2026 (M 7.7) occurred at a distance
of Hurricane Hernan at the time of its occurrence as noted at the time in this
summary:
"The M 7.7 in the Flores area of Indonesia was located at 104 degrees from
the eye of TS Hernan at the time of its occurrence. At the same time it was at the
fourth node (90 degrees) from the eye and landfall of Hurricane Lala. This is difficult to reconcile
with a shrug and the word "coincidence" and thus the aforementioned statement." (August 17, 2026)
O: 31AUG2026 08:03:28 8.2S 120.6E mb=5.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 06:53:47 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 01SEP2026 06:20:33 8.4S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 12:01:16 8.4S 121.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 14:25:53 8.4S 119.4E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
A moderate earthquake of M 4.6 also occurred today off the coast of northern California. This is the
second such earthquake in the area in the past three days and could indicate
stress buildup in the region. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in Whitethorn and Eureka, California.
At the time of the M 4.9 in this area on August 28, this summary noted:
The earthquake in Northern California was reported by EMSC to have been felt with intensity enough to shaking houses in Ferndale and Scotia, California.
This is the largest earthquake off the coast of Northern California since an M 5.1
and M 5.7 on June 3, 2026 and before that in December, 2024 when a strong
mainshock of M 7.0 was recorded near today's event. Like today's event
offshore Northern California the earthquake of June, 2026 was closely
associated with a strong geomagnetic storm - the second strongest of the
past three months. At the time of the June, 2026 events this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquakeof M 5.1 off the coast of northern California was followed
by a series of lighter earthquakes later in the day. The mainshock was reported
felt with intensity IV in Alderpoint and III in Whitethorn, Scotia, Redcrest, Petrolia, Blue Lake, Samoa, Westpot and II in Garberville and Ferndale, California.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 off the coast of Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California with IV inCarlotta, Piercy, Eureka and III in Hoopa, McKinleyville, Petrolia, Whitethorn and II in Santa Rosa, and Bayside.
An M 4.0 was also felt with intensity II in Petrolia, California." (June 4, 2026)
and
"A strong geomagnetic storm of G1-G2 level occurred around the earth today
starting around 15:30 UT. Kp with this storm reached 6.57 around 18:00 UT.
Some enhancement of seismicity was observed with the onset of this storm" (June 5, 2026)
O: 31AUG2026 08:36:48 40.5N 126.4W MB=4.4 NEIC OFF COAST OF NORTHERN CALIFORN
O: 31AUG2026 08:36:47 40.4N 126.6W MB=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF NORTHERN CALIFORN
O: 31AUG2026 21:38:46 40.7N 127.0W ML=2.9 EMSC OFF COAST OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.3 in the Fox Islands,
Aleutians, Alaska. This was part of a swarm of five events today with M>=4.5
in the Fox Islands. NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity IV
in Nikolski, Alaska.
The last earthquakes of M>=5.3 in the Fox Islands within about 200 of today's
activity occurred on May 22 and 23, 2026 with M 5.3 and M 5.6. When an M 6.1 occurred
on February 23, 2026 within about 100 km of today's epicenters this summary
noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 6.1 in the Fox Islands,
Aleutians, Alaska. It was followed by an M 5.5 aftershock.
NEIC reported these events were likely felt near Nikolski, Alaska with intensity up to IV.
The M 4.4 occurred near local solar midninght and may have been promoted by tidal and geomagnetic effects." (February 23, 2026)
When an M 4.8 occurred south of Africa two days ago, this summary noted
the antipodal relation with the Fox Islands and hypothesized possible
enhanced seismicity in the Fox Islands at this time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the area southwest of Africa. It was
not reported felt in this epicentral region. The antipode of this event is at 52N 168W
in the Fox Islands, Alaska, an area where a moderate sympathetic antipodal
earthquake near 52N 166W could be expected in the next two days." (August 28, 2026)
Today's earthquakes in the Fox Islands are located at 101 degrees from Colombia
at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Hurricane Karina; at the seventh node (52 degrees) from
Hurricane Lowell and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01SEP2026 06:52:12 52.1N 169.2W ML=3.8 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 06:44:36 52.2N 169.4W Mw=5.3 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:05:59 52.3N 169.3W mb=4.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:30:18 52.3N 169.6W mb=4.6 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 07:45:39 52.3N 169.4W mb=4.5 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 01SEP2026 08:19:19 52.5N 169.4W mb=4.6 EMSC FOX ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
P: 23AUG2026 185060 51.9N 169.2W 3.5-4.9 CAAAA Fox Islands, Aleutians
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in the Mindanao, Philippines aftershock zone was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Mindanao, Philippines aftershock zone.
This latitude (5 North) is currently at sub-solar conditions on this date with
the sun directly overhead at local solar noon. These conditions can lead to
enhanced seismicity at this latitude and a stronger earthquakes in the aftershock
zone of Mindanao (following the M 7.8 of June 7, 2026) may follow in the next
couple of days. Like the current circumstances, the mainshock in June followed
a major geomagnetic storm and lies near the geomagnetic equator, both
conditions which could contribute to higher magnitudes at this time.
O: 31AUG2026 10:05:07 5.6N 125.3E ML=4.0 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Ecuador was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ecuador.
This epicenter is antipodal to the M 6.9 in Sumatra of August 15, 2026 - an
area which this summary had expected could see enhanced seismicity at this time.
O: 31AUG2026 14:57:54 4.0S 81.7W ML=4.2 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NORTHERN PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to V in the area(s) of Central Peru in Huayucachi, Junin.
O: 31AUG2026 11:53:26 12.2S 75.5W MB=4.7 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 4.5, 4.5 and 4.3 in Southern Iran were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Iran in Abu Al Hasaniya, Kuwait.
O: 31AUG2026 15:22:04 30.6N 51.5E MB=4.5 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 01SEP2026 06:36:53 30.7N 51.6E ML=4.3 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
O: 01SEP2026 06:15:13 30.8N 51.5E mb=4.5 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 4.2 and M 4.0 in Panama were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Panama at Potrerillos Arriva, Palmira, Alto Quiel, David, Bugabita Arriba, Volcan, Los Remedios, and in Llorente, Costa Rica.
O: 01SEP2026 04:50:49 8.8N 82.7W ML=4.2 EMSC PANAMA-COSTA RICA BORDER REGIO
O: 01SEP2026 05:29:31 8.8N 81.5W ML=4.0 EMSC PANAMA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM EDOUARD
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS EDOUARD 2026-09-01 00:00 UT 29.0N 92.8W 40 kts Texas-Louisiana border
TS Edouard formed today off southern Louisiana with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will make landfall on September 1-2 near the Texas-Louisiana border and may help promote regional seismicity near Shreveport, Louisiana and further inland in Oklahoma and Texas upong landfall. The antipode at 29S 88E is not a seismic area.
TROPICAL STORM LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS LOWELL 2026-09-01 00:00 UT 13.0N 148.0W 75 kts North Pacific southeast of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today Southeast of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 75 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will approach southern Hawaii around September 2-4 with winds up to 130 kts and could enhance volcanism and seismicity in southern Hawaii at that time. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift and Madagascar at 13S 36E and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-09-01 00:00 UT 17.7N 126.3W 140 kts North Pacific
Hurricane Karina continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 140 kts (category 4 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region but may reach Hawaii or north of Hawaii around September 7-9 where some seismicity may be promoted. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 18S 54E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time.
TROPICAL STORM KROVANH (22W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KROVANH 2026-09-01 00:00 UT 22.5N 131.5E 45 kts East of Taiwan north of Guam
TS Krovanh formed today in the region east of Taiwan with winds up to 45 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity at this time but this could change as it tracks to the northwest over the next week encountering the Ryukyu and Kyushu Islands of Japan around September 5-7 where some enhanced seismicity is possible near landfall. The antipode of this storm is at 23S 49W, a non-seismic region near Brazil.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-09-01 00:00 UT 20.0N 114.4E 45 kts West of Taiwan north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel reconstituted in the area west of Taiwan today
with winds up to 45 kts. It is unlikely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time but some moderate seismic enhancement is possible in Taiwan and northern Philippines.
The antipode at 20S 66W is a seismic area in Bolivia and northern Chile
and could see moderate seismicity at this time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6530 0331 0333 0335 C1.0 (August 31, 2026) 3.7E-04
6580 1357 1414 1417 C1.4 (August 31, 2026) 1.9E-03
Southern Peru M 4.1 14:08 UT
6590 1417 1425 1429 C1.4 (August 31, 2026) 1.4E-03
Flores M 4.1 14:25 UT
6610 1429 1441 1450 C1.6 (August 31, 2026) 2.1E-03
Northern Peru/Ecuador M 4.2 14:57 UT
6620 1509 1516 1521 C2.6 (August 31, 2026) 1.5E-03
Southern Iran M 4.5 15:22 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet September 1-3. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 12, high: 20, mid-latitude: 13, time of max k: 12:00-15:00 UT; Max k: 5 Global Kp 3.33 0300-1200, August 31; Sunspot Number: 81; Radio Flux: 107 August 31, 2026.
The Hp30 (GFZ) index did not exceed 3 over the past 24 hours. The current goemagnetic storm
is apparently drawing to a close. This could bring a couple of days of elevated
global seismicity especially at high latitudes and near the geomagnetic equator.
August 31, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The geomagnetic storm (G1 level) that arrived about 13:00 UT on August 28, 2026 continued
off-and-on today with a gradual decline in intensity. On August 30, 2026 the maximum Hp30 (GFZ)
index was 4.66 around 9:30-10:00 UT and it reached maximum Hp30 index of 4.66
and a maximum of 5.44 at 02:00-02:30 on August 30, 2026. Storms of this nature
tend to subdue seismicity while they are active with seismic hazard increasing
when ionospheric ring currents reinitiate several days after the end of the
storm. Global seismicity is expected increase in the next several days
as the geomagnetic storm declines.
It was a relatively quiet day in global seismicity today, probably related
to the current geomagnetic storm.
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.5 aftershock in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence.
NEIC reported it was likely felt with intensity up to VI inthe epicentral area near Ruteng, Indonesia.
This is the strongest aftershock in the region since an M 5.7 on August 20, 2026.
It may have been promoted by the tidal effects oif the full moon and lunar eclipse
of August 28 and it occurred at a longitude of maximum stress with that
alignment as reported in previous issues of this summary:
"The full moon and lunar eclipse will arrive on August 28, 2026 at 04:18 UT. This eclipse will be a partial visible in the Americas, Europe and Africa with peak at 04:14 UT.i The maximum eclipse will be visible in Bolivia and northern Chile and southern Peru where the M 6.7 occurred several days ago. Lunar eclipses following two weeks after solar eclipses often continue enhanced seismicity begun with the solar eclipse and can trigger new seismicity in areas where the eclipse is visible. This is the largest magnitude partial lunar eclipse of the Saros 138 series which lasts for 1450 years starting in 1521 and ending in 2982 so it is significant in that sense. This in turn, considerably enhances tidal stresses (at the inverse third power of distance) and can lead to larger global earthquakes within a couple of days of the full moon. Longitudes at local solar noon are near 115 East and those at local solar midnight are near 65 West longitude. In the west these include the northern and Eastern Caribbean as well as areas of western South America while in the East longitudes near 120 E are located in the Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia among others. These are the most likely areas to see tidal triggering at this time, but other areas could see significant enhancement in seismicity in the next several days. These would most likely see seismic enhancement near local solar noon or midnight. A strong to major earthquake is considered likely with this new moon." (August 25-26, 2026)
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
It is also near 102 degrees from the eye of Tropical Storm Lowell at the time
of occurrence. The mainshock of August 14, 2026 (M 7.7) occurred at a distance
of Hurricane Hernan at the time of its occurrence as noted at the time in this
summary:
"The M 7.7 in the Flores area of Indonesia was located at 104 degrees from
the eye of TS Hernan at the time of its occurrence. At the same time it was at the
fourth node (90 degrees) from the eye and landfall of Hurricane Lala. This is difficult to reconcile
with a shrug and the word "coincidence" and thus the aforementioned statement." (August 17, 2026)
O: 30AUG2026 07:10:39 8.0S 120.6E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 30AUG2026 11:03:02 8.1S 120.6E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 06:53:47 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 08:03:28 8.2S 120.6E mb=5.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 00:42:40 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 31AUG2026 02:48:42 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
A moderate earthquake of M 4.6 also occurred today off the coast of northern California. This is the
second such earthquake in the area in the past three days and could indicate
stress buildup in the region. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in Whitethorn and Eureka, California.
At the time of the M 4.9 in this area on August 28, this summary noted:
The earthquake in Northern California was reported by EMSC to have been felt with intensity enough to shaking houses in Ferndale and Scotia, California.
This is the largest earthquake off the coast of Northern California since an M 5.1
and M 5.7 on June 3, 2026 and before that in December, 2024 when a strong
mainshock of M 7.0 was recorded near today's event. Like today's event
offshore Northern California the earthquake of June, 2026 was closely
associated with a strong geomagnetic storm - the second strongest of the
past three months. At the time of the June, 2026 events this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquakeof M 5.1 off the coast of northern California was followed
by a series of lighter earthquakes later in the day. The mainshock was reported
felt with intensity IV in Alderpoint and III in Whitethorn, Scotia, Redcrest, Petrolia, Blue Lake, Samoa, Westpot and II in Garberville and Ferndale, California.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 off the coast of Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California with IV inCarlotta, Piercy, Eureka and III in Hoopa, McKinleyville, Petrolia, Whitethorn and II in Santa Rosa, and Bayside.
An M 4.0 was also felt with intensity II in Petrolia, California." (June 4, 2026)
and
"A strong geomagnetic storm of G1-G2 level occurred around the earth today
starting around 15:30 UT. Kp with this storm reached 6.57 around 18:00 UT.
Some enhancement of seismicity was observed with the onset of this storm" (June 5, 2026)
O: 31AUG2026 08:36:48 40.5N 126.4W MB=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF NORTHERN CALIFORN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM BANG-LANG (20W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS BANG-LANG 2026-08-31 00:00 UT 34.1N 165.3E 45 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Bang-Lang (20W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 45 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and is expected to dissipate in the next day. This storm is antipodal to 34S 15W, an inactive area of the South Atlantic Ocean.
TROPICAL STORM ETAU (21W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ETAU 2026-08-31 00:00 UT 31.7N 166.8E 40 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Etau (21W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 32S 13W, an inactive seismically area of the South Atlantic Ocean and is expected to dissipate in the next day.
TROPICAL STORM LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS LOWELL 2026-08-31 00:00 UT 13.0N 143.0W 65 kts North Pacific southeast of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today Southeast of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 65 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will approach southern Hawaii around September 3-4 with winds up to 115 kts and could enhance volcanism and seismicity in Hawaii at that time. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift and Madagascar at 13S 36E and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-08-31 00:00 UT 17.2N 124.0W 145 kts Southwest of Baja California
Hurricane Karina continued today Southwest of Baja California with winds up to 145 kts (category 4 storm). It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 17S 56E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6380 0110 0120 0150 C3.0 (August 30, 2026) 1.4E-03
Flores M 3.7 01:23 UT
Malaysia M 2.7 01:41 UT
6450 1641 1656 1711 C2.2 (August 30, 2026) 3.0E-03
Sumatra M 3.6 16:44 UT
Croatia M 1.8 17:11 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 31 through September 2. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 27, mid-latitude: 13, time of max k: 12:00-15:00 UT; Max k: 6 Global Kp 3.67 1200-1500, August 30; Sunspot Number: 74; Radio Flux: 107 August 30, 2026.
The geomagnetic storm (G1 level) that arrived about 13:00 UT on August 28, 2026 continued
off-and-on today with a gradual decline in intensity. On August 30, 2026 the maximum Hp30 (GFZ)
index was 4.66 around 9:30-10:00 UT and it reached maximum Hp30 index of 4.66
and a maximum of 5.44 at 02:00-02:30 on August 30, 2026. Storms of this nature
tend to subdue seismicity while they are active with seismic hazard increasing
when ionospheric ring currents reinitiate several days after the end of the
storm. Global seismicity is expected increase in the next several days
as the geomagnetic storm declines.
August 30, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The geomagnetic storm (G1 level) that arrived about 13:00 UT on August 28, 2026 continued
off-and-on today. On August 29, GFZ Showed it reached maximum Hp30 index of 4.66
and a maximum of 5.44 at 02:00-02:30 on August 29, 2026. Storms of this nature
tend to subdue seismicity while they are active with seismic hazard increasing
when ionospheric ring currents reinitiate several days after the end of the
storm.
It was a relatively quiet day in global seismicity today, probably related
to the current geomagnetic storm. The strongest earthquake in the world today
was an unfelt M 5.8 in the Kermadec Islands, New Zealand. The most widely
felt earthquake occurred as an M 4.9 in Albania.
NEIC reported the earthquake in the Kermadec Islands may have been felt in the epicentral
area with intensity up to IV, but was not reported felt. It was followed by
two other earthquakes - an M 4.9 in the Fiji Islands 11 minutes and 46 seconds
later and an M 4.4 off the east coast of North Island 1 minute and 16 seconds
after the mainshock. This earthquake occurred at 6.0 degrees from the mainshock,
a time and distance consistent with p-wave triggering. It may also be a computational
artifact and is not listed by NEIC. The second event in Fiji is consistent with PcS/ScP triggering
from the Kermadec Islands mainshock as that wave would have been at this Fiji
epicenter at the time of the earthquake there. NEIC does list this event.
A third event of M 2.9 in Southern Idaho (94 degrees from Kermadec) occurred
14 minutes and 52 seconds after the mainshock in the Kermadec Is. could have
been triggered by the P-wave from Kermadec as it occurred about a minute
after that arrival.
O: 30AUG2026 09:02:09 30.1S 177.9W MB=5.8 EMSC KERMADEC ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
O: 30AUG2026 09:03:25 36.0S 179.6W MB=4.4 EMSC OFF E.COAST OF N. ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND
O: 30AUG2026 09:13:55 23.4S 179.9W MB=4.5 NEIC SOUTH OF FIJI ISLANDS
O: 30AUG2026 09:17:01 42.8N 111.3W MB=2.9 NEIC SOUTHERN IDAHO
NEIC reported the earthquake of M 4.5 in Albania was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Albania with IV in Vlore, Himare and in Greece in Kerkira at Liapades, KKontokalion, Kerkira and III in Auliotai, Ipsos Kentriki, and Parga and in Albania at Gjirokaster.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Albania at Himare, Lukove, Vramosht, Vergo, Delvine, Gjirokaster, Tepelene, Fijiq, Sarande, and in Greece at Acharavi, Roda, Peroulades, Karousades among others and as far as Montenegro, Italy and North Macedonia.
O: 29AUG2026 22:35:22 40.1N 19.8E MB=4.5 EMSC ALBANIA
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.8 in the Alaska Peninsula area.
O: 29AUG2026 15:16:56 54.8N 156.9W MW=4.8 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 4.4 and M 5.0 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
O: 30AUG2026 07:10:39 8.0S 120.6E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 29AUG2026 13:46:17 8.2S 120.4E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 30AUG2026 05:40:26 8.2S 121.3E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 29AUG2026 08:37:56 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Northern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Chile in Antofagasta and Iquique, Tarapaca.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Antofagasta, Iquique and Calama, Chile.
O: 30AUG2026 05:19:51 22.2S 70.3W MB=4.7 EMSC OFFSHORE ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in the Tokyo, Japan area was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Tokyo, Japan area with IV in Chiba at Narashino and III in Chiba and Tokyo and II in Ibaraki.
O: 29AUG2026 15:17:05 35.8N 141.0E MW=4.7 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Greece was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Greece near Emponas.
EMSC reported light shaking in Greece at Chalki, Gennadi, Faliraki,
O: 29AUG2026 12:32:52 36.2N 27.6E MW=4.1 EMSC DODECANESE IS.-TURKEY BORDER R
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska in Homer, Ninilchik, Soldotna, Anchor Point, Clam Gulch, Anchorage, Chugiak, Sterling and Moose Pass.
O: 29AUG2026 12:02:11 59.9N 152.3W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Colombia in Armenia, Quindio and Yumbo Valle del Cauca.
O: 29AUG2026 10:50:23 4.6N 76.8W MB=4.5 EMSC COLOMBIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM BANG-LANG (20W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS BANG-LANG 2026-08-30 00:00 UT 33.3N 167.3E 55 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Bang-Lang (20W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 55 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to 33S 13W, an inactive area of the South Atlantic Ocean.
TROPICAL STORM ETAU (21W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ETAU 2026-08-30 00:00 UT 30.8N 165.3E 40 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Etau (21W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 31S 15W, an inactive seismically area of the South Atlantic Ocean.
TROPICAL STORM LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS LOWELL 2026-08-30 00:00 UT 13.2N 138.6W 55 kts North Pacific southeast of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today Southeast of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 55 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will approach Hawaii around September 3-4 with winds up to 115 kts and could enhance volcanism and seismicity in Hawaii at that time. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift and Madagascar at 13S 42E near Mayotte and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
HURICANE KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR KARINA 2026-08-30 00:00 UT 17.2N 120.7W 80 kts Southwest of Baja California
Hurricane Karina continued today Southwest of Baja California with winds up to 80 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region and may reach category 3 hurricane level by September 2 on its path towards Hawaii. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 17S 60E) where little seismic enhancement is likely at this time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0110 0120 0150 C3.0 (August 30, 2026) 3.0E-03
Flores M 3.7 01:23 UT
6250 1201 1211 1221 C1.1 (August 29, 2026) 1.2E-03
Southern Alaska M 3.9 12:02 UT
Dodecanese M 4.1 12:32 UT
6270 1315 1325 1329 C1.0 (August 29, 2026) 7.4E-04
Sea of Japan M 4.0 13:25 UT
Flores M 4.0 13:26 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active August 30 quiet August 31 through September 1. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 17, high: 23, mid-latitude: 15, time of max k: 14:00-16:00 UT; Max k: 5 Global Kp 4.33 0000-0300, August 29; Sunspot Number: 73; Radio Flux: 111 August 29, 2026.
The geomagnetic storm (G1 level) that arrived about 13:00 UT on August 28, 2026 continued
off-and-on today. On August 29, GFZ Showed it reached maximum Hp30 index of 4.66
and a maximum of 5.44 at 02:00-02:30 on August 29, 2026. Storms of this nature
tend to subdue seismicity while they are active with seismic hazard increasing
when ionospheric ring currents reinitiate several days after the end of the
storm.
August 29, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
Global seismicity remained at relatively quiet levels today. This was probably
due to the dampening effect of the current geomagnetic storm.
A geomagnetic storm (G1 level) arrived about 13:00 UT on August 28, 2026. It reached
Hp30 (GFZ) levels of 5.33 at 02:15-03:25 UT on August 29, 2026. A moderate
earthquake of M 4.9 occurred at the peak of this storm off the coast of
Northern California at 02:41 UT as this geomagnetic disturbance reached its maximum intensity as
shown by GOES 19 and GOES 18 data (GOES 18 at 137 West longitude).
The earthquake in Northern California was reported by EMSC to have been felt with intensity enough to shaking houses in Ferndale and Scotia, California.
This is the largest earthquake off the coast of Northern California since an M 5.1
and M 5.7 on June 3, 2026 and before that in December, 2024 when a strong
mainshock of M 7.0 was recorded near today's event. Like today's event
offshore Northern California the earthquake of June, 2026 was closely
associated with a strong geomagnetic storm - the second strongest of the
past three months. At the time of the June, 2026 events this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquakeof M 5.1 off the coast of northern California was followed
by a series of lighter earthquakes later in the day. The mainshock was reported
felt with intensity IV in Alderpoint and III in Whitethorn, Scotia, Redcrest, Petrolia, Blue Lake, Samoa, Westpot and II in Garberville and Ferndale, California.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 off the coast of Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California with IV inCarlotta, Piercy, Eureka and III in Hoopa, McKinleyville, Petrolia, Whitethorn and II in Santa Rosa, and Bayside.
An M 4.0 was also felt with intensity II in Petrolia, California." (June 4, 2026)
and
"A strong geomagnetic storm of G1-G2 level occurred around the earth today
starting around 15:30 UT. Kp with this storm reached 6.57 around 18:00 UT.
Some enhancement of seismicity was observed with the onset of this storm" (June 5, 2026)
O: 29AUG2026 02:41:12 40.4N 125.2W ML=4.9 NEIC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Greece was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Greece in Nauplion, Argolis and Vari, Attiki.
O: 28AUG2026 23:55:58 37.4N 22.7E ML=4.5 NEIC GREECE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Vanuatu was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Vanuatu in Vila Shefa.
O: 28AUG2026 08:32:37 19.3S 168.1E MB=5.0 EMSC VANUATU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines in San Isidro.
O: 29AUG2026 06:32:54 10.0N 126.3E MB=4.8 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Panama was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Panama in Pacora, Pedregal, Parque Lefevre, Cabra Numero Uno, Panama City, San Felipe, Rio Abajo, Curundu, Juan Diaz, Balboa, San Miguelito, La Chorrera, San Jose, Chame, Canto del Llano.
O: 29AUG2026 04:56:01 8.4N 78.9W ML=4.4 EMSC PANAMA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in northern Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of northern Chile in Arica, and Iquique.
O: 28AUG2026 20:44:37 18.9S 69.9W MW=4.6 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 4.3 and M 4.3 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
O: 28AUG2026 20:07:44 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 28AUG2026 15:24:46 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 28AUG2026 18:08:37 8.2S 121.4E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM BANG-LANG (20W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS BANG-LANG 2026-08-29 00:00 UT 23.9N 168.2E 90 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Bang-Lang (20W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 90 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 23S 12W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean. It is likely that a moderate earthquake near this antipodal location will occur near this antipode. There is little regional seismicity in the area of the storm so regional seismic triggering is unlikely at this time.
A Tropical Storm near TS 20W is also currently active This is TS 21W (Etau).
These two storms may merge in the next several days
TROPICAL STORM ETAU (21W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ETAU 2026-08-29 00:00 UT 28.1N 165.0E 50 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Etau (21W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 28S 14W, an seismically active area of the South Atlantic Ocean.
TROPICAL STORM LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS LOWELL 2026-08-29 00:00 UT 13.0N 135.6W 50 kts North Pacific southeast of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today Southeast of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will approach Hawaii around September 3-4 and could enhance volcanism and seismicity in Hawaii at that time. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift and Madagascar at 12S 45E near Mayotte and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
TROPICAL STORM KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KARINA 2026-08-29 00:00 UT 14.0N 116.6W 70 kts South of Baja California
TS Karina continued today South of Baja California with winds up to 70 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 14S 64E) where some seismic enhancement is possible at this time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6190 0412 0422 0430 C1.1 (August 28, 2026) 9.3E-04
Argentina M 3.6 04:28 UT
Southwest Indian Ridge M 5.2 04:59 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: major storms August 29 active August 30 quiet August 31. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 15, mid-latitude: 14, time of max k: 14:00-16:00 UT; Max k: 5 Global Kp 4.33 2000-2400, August 28; Sunspot Number: 92; Radio Flux: 116 August 28, 2026.
A geomagnetic storm (G1 level) arrived about 13:00 UT on August 28, 2026. It reached
Hp30 (GFZ) levels of 5.33 at 02:15-03:25 UT on August 29, 2026. A moderate
earthquake of M 4.9 occurred at the peak of this storm off the coast of
Northern California at 02:41 UT as this geomagnetic disturbance reached its maximum intensity as
shown by GOES 19 and GOES 18 data (GOES 18 at 137 West longitude).
August 28, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 4.9 and M 5.0 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
O: 26AUG2026 01:20:30 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM BANG-LANG (20W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS BANG-LANG 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 18.8N 165.3E 75 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Bang-Lang (20W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 75 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 19S 15W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean. It is likely that a moderate earthquake near this antipodal location will occur near this antipode. There is little regional seismicity in the area of the storm so regional seismic triggering is unlikely at this time.
A Tropical Storm near TS 20W is also currently active This is TS 21W (Etau).
These two storms may merge in the next several days
TROPICAL STORM ETAU (21W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ETAU 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 24.1N 167.0E 65 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Etau (21W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 65 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 24S 13W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean.
TROPICAL STORM LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS LOWELL 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 12.0N 135.6W 50 kts North Pacific southeast of Hawaii
TS Lowell continued today Southeast of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will approach Hawaii around September 3-4 and could enhance volcanism and seismicity in Hawaii at that time. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift and Madagascar at 12S 47E near Mayotte and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
TROPICAL STORM KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KARINA 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 11.0N 113.6W 50 kts South of Baja California
TS Karina continued today South of Baja California with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 13S 66E) where some seismic enhancement is possible at this time.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 37.7N 179.0W 45 kts Northwest of Hawaii
Hurricane Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 45 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 37S 2E) is not likely at this time. Regional seismicity is uncommon in this area of the Pacific and no seismic enhancement is now expected locally. Lala is expected to dissipate in the next day.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 28.1N 121.0E 70 kts North of Taiwan
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area north of Taiwan and west of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan today with winds up to 70 kts.
It is expected to dissipate in the next day. The antipode at 28S 58W is not a seismic area.
TROPICAL STORM DOLLY
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS DOLLY 2026-08-28 00:00 UT 14.5N 44.7W 40 kts Mid-Atlantic Ridge
TS Dolly formed today in the central mid-Atlantic area with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the west reaching the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico around August 31 as a weak storm. Some seismic enhancement in the northeastern Caribbean area could accompany landfall of TS Dolly. The antipode at 14S 135E is south of Papua and could see enhanced seismicity near this location.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6050 0132 0141 0149 C5.2 (August 27, 2026) 3.4E-03
Iceland M 2.8 01:29 UT
6070 0341 0350 0356 C1.3 (August 27, 2026) 1.0E-03
6090 0548 0553 0557 C1.2 (August 27, 2026) 6.1E-04
Volcano Is. M 5.3 05:44 UT
Argentina M 4.3 05:53 UT
6100 0631 0640 0647 C1.0 (August 27, 2026) 9.3E-04
Chiapas M 4.0 06:45 UT
6110 0703 0707 0711 C1.2 (August 27, 2026) 5.4E-04
Spain M 2.1 07:07 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: major storms August 28-29 active August 30. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 4, high: 0, mid-latitude: 4, time of max k: 14:00-16:00 UT; Max k: 2 Global Kp 1.33 0000-0000, August 27; Sunspot Number: 76; Radio Flux: 122 August 27, 2026.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 2.0 in the past 24 hours.
August 27, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 4.9 and M 5.0 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
O: 26AUG2026 01:20:30 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM BANG-LANG (20W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS BANG-LANG 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 18.8N 165.3E 75 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Bang-Lang (20W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 75 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 19S 15W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean. It is likely that a moderate earthquake near this antipodal location will occur near this antipode. There is little regional seismicity in the area of the storm so regional seismic triggering is unlikely at this time.
A Tropical Storm near TS 20W is also currently active This is TS 21W (Etau).
These two storms may merge in the next several days
TROPICAL STORM ETAU (21W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ETAU 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 24.1N 167.0E 65 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Etau (21W) continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 65 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 24S 13W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean.
TROPICAL STORM LOWELL (12E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS LOWELL 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 11.0N 133.6W 50 kts North Pacific southeast of Hawaii
TS Lowell formed today Southeast of Hawaii in the North Pacific with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. It will approach Hawaii around September 3-4 and could enhance volcanism and seismicity in Hawaii at that time. This storm is antipodal to the East African Rift and Madagascar at 12S 47E near Mayotte and could enhance seismicity in that area at this time.
TROPICAL STORM KARINA (11E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS KARINA 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 11.0N 113.6W 50 kts South of Baja California
TS Karina formed today South of Baja California with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west and poses no immediate seismic hazard to the region. This storm is antipodal to the northern Indian Ocean (at 13S 66E) where some seismic enhancement is possible at this time.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 37.5N 178.4W 45 kts Northwest of Hawaii
Hurricane Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 45 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 37S 2E) is not likely at this time. Regional seismicity is uncommon in this area of the Pacific and no seismic enhancement is now expected locally. Lala is expected to dissipate in the next day.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 28.1N 121.0E 70 kts North of Taiwan
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area north of Taiwan and west of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan today with winds up to 70 kts.
It is expected to dissipate in the next day. The antipode at 28S 58W is not a seismic area.
TROPICAL STORM DOLLY
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS DOLLY 2026-08-27 00:00 UT 14.1N 42.7W 40 kts Mid-Atlantic Ridge
TS Dolly formed today in the central mid-Atlantic area with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the west reaching the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico around August 31 as a weak storm. Some seismic enhancement in the northeastern Caribbean area could accompany landfall of TS Dolly. The antipode at 14S 135E is south of Papua and could see enhanced seismicity near this location.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5970 0027 0050 0103 C1.2 (August 26, 2026) 2.3E-03
Flores M 4.1 00:38 UT M 4.0 00:25 UT
5980 0629 0634 0638 M2.2 (August 26, 2026) 7.6E-03
Flores M 4.0 06:34 UT M 4.0 06:36 UT
Turkey M 4.0 06:53 UT
Honshu M 4.8 06:54
Sumatra M 4.0 06:58 UT
5990 1140 1147 1152 C1.5 (August 26, 2026) 8.7E-04
Oaxaca M 4.1 11:46 UT
Flores M 3.6, 3.6, 3.7 11:41, 11:43, 11:49 UT
6000 1206 1214 1222 M1.0 (August 26, 2026) 6.0E-03
Panama M 2.8 12:05 UT
6020 1905 1912 1919 C1.3 (August 26, 2026) 9.4E-04
Honshu M 4.5 19:21 UT
Laos M 4.3 19:21 UT
Southern Peru M 4.0 19:29 UT
6030 2129 2140 2145 C3.4 (August 26, 2026) 1.6E-03
Taiwan M 4.6 21:47 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 27 major storms August 28-29. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 3, high: 0, mid-latitude: 4, time of max k: 14:00-16:00 UT; Max k: 2 Global Kp 1.00 1300-1500, August 26; Sunspot Number: 99; Radio Flux: 131 August 26, 2026.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 3.0 in the past 24 hours.
August 26, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A landslide and earthquake of M 5.2 in Nepal were followed by an event of M 4.2 today in the region of Nepal
This triggered a major flooding event down stream which destroyed many
structure, bridges and dams as well as killing many (figures are note yet
available) including tourists of many nationalities. Sympathies are extended
to all affected by this event. This earthquake and landslide occurred
within minutes of local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal
stresses and/or geomagnetic effects from the full moon and lunar eclipse
on August 28, 2026. This summary addressed this eclipse in the previous
issue of this summary.
This epicenter is at 143 degrees from Colombia and the seventsh node (51 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia
and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Typhoon Etau and may have been promoted by energy from those source.
O: 26AUG2026 06:00:35 28.3N 85.5E ML=4.1 NEIC NEPAL
O: 26AUG2026 02:52:44 28.3N 85.5E ML=5.2 EMSC NEPAL
"The full moon and lunar eclipse will arrive on August 28, 2026 at 04:18 UT. This eclipse will be a partial visible in the Americas, Europe and Africa with peak at 04:14 UT.i The maximum eclipse will be visible in Bolivia and northern Chile and southern Peru where the M 6.7 occurred several days ago. Lunar eclipses following two weeks after solar eclipses often continue enhanced seismicity begun with the solar eclipse and can trigger new seismicity in areas where the eclipse is visible. This is the largest magnitude partial lunar eclipse of the Saros 138 series which lasts for 1450 years starting in 1521 and ending in 2982 so it is significant in that sense. This in turn, considerably enhances tidal stresses (at the inverse third power of distance) and can lead to larger global earthquakes within a couple of days of the full moon. Longitudes at local solar noon are near 115 East and those at local solar midnight are near 65 West longitude. In the west these include the northern and Eastern Caribbean as well as areas of western South America while in the East longitudes near 120 E are located in the Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia among others. These are the most likely areas to see tidal triggering at this time, but other areas could see significant enhancement in seismicity in the next several days. These would most likely see seismic enhancement near local solar noon or midnight. A strong to major earthquake is considered likely with this new moon." (August 25-26, 2026)
An earthquake of M 5.5 occurred today in the area of Taiwan. NEIC reported it was felt in southern Taiwan in Taitung with intensity IV and III in Taichung and Kaohsiung with II in Chiayi, Taipei, Tainan, and Hsinchu Counties.
This occurred as Typhoon Saudel was making landfall north of Taiwan in
the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. The last earthquake in Taiwan within about 150
km of today's epicenter with M>=5.5 occurred on Arpil 4, 2026 - alsowith M 5.5 but
the last event of larger magnitude in thearea was an M 6.0 on December 24, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong M 6.0 occurred today in the region of southern Taiwan. NEIC reported it was
felt with intensity VI in Taiwan at Taitung; IV in Changhua, Kaohsiung, and III in Pingtung, Taipei, Kaohsiung and Yunlin, Taiwan.
CWB, the local network gave this earthquake M 6.1. That network reported intensity
up to V in Taitung with IV in Hualien, Kaohsiung, III in Nantou, Tainan, Chiayi, Changhua, Taichung, Miaoli, Yilan, Hsinchu, Taoyuan, Taipei, Pingtung, and Penghu Counties, Taiwan.
A foreshock of M 4.9 about 100 km north of the mainshock occurred about a day earlier
CWB reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Taiwan in Hualien, and II in Taitung, Taichung, Yunlin, Chiayi, Changhua Counties.
The last earthquake in Taiwan with M>=6.1 was recorded by NEIC as occurring
on August 15, 2024 with M 6.1 but the last of significantly larger magnitude
was an M 7.5 on April 2, 2024..." (December 24, 2025)
Today's event in Taiwan is at 104 degrees from Hurricane Iselle and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 25AUG2026 07:00:10 22.6N 121.7E MW=5.5 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
An earthquake of M 4.8 occurred today in the area southwest of Africa. It was
not reported felt in this epicentral region. The antipode of this event is at 52N 168W
in the Fox Islands, Alaska, an area where a moderate sympathetic antipodal
earthquake near 52N 166W could be expected in the next two days.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Colombia and Sumatra and may
have been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 26AUG2026 05:45:04 52.7S 11.9E MW=4.8 EMSC SOUTHWEST OF AFRICA
Major aftershocks in the Flores Sea have ceased as of August 25. This has been
a very active aftershock sequence starting with the mainshock of M 7.7
on August 14, 2026 with the new moon and solar eclipse. The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 4.9 and M 5.0 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
This activity is at 145 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and may have been promoted by energy from that source,
O: 26AUG2026 01:20:30 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 06:36:27 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 07:17:50 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 00:38:36 7.9S 120.4E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 02:08:27 7.9S 120.8E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 06:18:16 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 06:27:12 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 06:34:55 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 26AUG2026 07:07:51 7.9S 120.6E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 25AUG2026 14:58:55 8.1S 120.7E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 25AUG2026 15:51:12 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 25AUG2026 21:23:59 8.2S 120.7E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 26AUG2026 00:25:19 8.3S 121.4E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 25AUG2026 18:20:20 8.4S 121.4E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 26AUG2026 01:31:49 8.4S 120.3E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 26AUG2026 07:48:10 8.4S 121.3E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.2 in England today was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of England
EMSC reported it was felt and heard as a small rumble in Scartho, Grimsby and Waltham, England as well as in Cleethorpes and Humberston.
This epicenter saw the total eclipse of the sun on August 12, 2026. Tidal
effects from that alignment may have helped trigger today's earthquake.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Sumatra, Hurricane Lala
and Iselle and may have been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 25AUG2026 18:47:13 53.5N 0.1W ML=2.2 EMSC ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Honshu, Japan in Dendai Miyagi.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) Flores and Northern Sumatra
and may have been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 25AUG2026 20:23:37 37.3N 141.9E MB=4.7 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Fiji may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Fiji.
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 epicenter is locaed at 104 degrees from Colombia and may have been
promoted by energy from that source. Itis also at ehe fifth node (72 degrees) from
Storms Saudel and Iselle and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Flores and Hurricane Lala.
O: 25AUG2026 12:12:03 23.4S 179.9E MW=5.5 EMSC SOUTH OF FIJI ISLANDS
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Eastern Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Eastern Turkey in Malatya, Yesilyurt.
Several associated shocks were also felt in the area.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (909 degrees) from Flores and 105 degrees
from Colombia and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 26AUG2026 06:53:43 38.8N 36.5E ML=4.0 EMSC CENTRAL TURKEY
O: 25AUG2026 18:43:54 38.1N 38.4E ML=4.2 EMSC EASTERN TURKEY
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM 20W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS 20W 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 17.0N 162.6E 70 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS 20W continued today in the North Pacific with winds up to 70 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 17S 18W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean. It is likely that a moderate earthquake near this antipodal location will occur in the next three days as this storm remains antipodal. There is little regional seismicity in the area of the storm so regional seismic triggering is unlikely at this time.
The previous issue of this summary had addressed the possible effects of this storm as:
"A tropical cyclone may be forming in the north Pacific. This storm is currently
locate at 16N 166E with winds to 26 kts and moving NNW. This area of the
North Pacific is not seismic. The antipode at 16S 14W however is on the
Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge and is active and could see additional
seismicity with this storm." (August 25, 2026)
A Tropical Storm near TS 20W is also currently active This is TS 21W (Etau).
These two storms may merge in the next several days
TROPICAL STORM ETAU (21W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ETAU 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 23.1N 167.8E 70 kts North Pacific Ocean
TS Etau (21W) formed today in the North Pacific with winds up to 70 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and east. This storm is antipodal to 23S 13W, an active area of the South Atlantic Ocean. It is possible that a moderate earthquake near this antipodal location could occur in the next three days as this storm remains antipodal. There is little regional seismicity in the area of TS Etau so regional seismic triggering is unlikely at this time.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NARRA (TD 18W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NARRA 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 20.0N 109.6E 35 kts South China Sea
TD Narra (18W) continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 35 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could occur with this storm in the China Sea.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 37.0N 178.4W 50 kts Northwest of Hawaii
Hurricane Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 50 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 37S 2E) is not likely at this time. Regional seismicity is uncommon in this area of the Pacific and no seismic enhancement is now expected locally.
TROPICAL STORM ISELLE (09E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ISELLE 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 21.9N 123.4W 55 kts west of Mexico
TS Iselle continued today in the Northern Pacific west of Mexico with winds up to 55 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean at 21S 55E is possible with this storm. Local seismic enhancement is unlikely at this time.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 28.1N 122.6E 95 kts North of Taiwan
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area north of Taiwan and west of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan today with winds up to 95 kts.
It is likely to promote enhanced seismicity in
the area of Taiwan and in Honshu and Hokkaido at this time Ryukyu Islands around August 25-27.
The antipode at 28S 57W is not a seismic area.
TROPICAL STORM DOLLY
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS DOLLY 2026-08-26 00:00 UT 13.1N 39.7W 40 kts Mid-Atlantic Ridge
TS Dolly formed today in the central mid-Atlantic area with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the west reaching the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico around August 31 as a weak storm. Some seismic enhance in the northeastern Caribbean area could accompany landfall of TS Dolly. The antipode at 14S 140E is south of Papua and could see enhanced seismicity near this location.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 0104 0126 0140 M1.9 (August 25, 2026) 2.3E-02
Martinique M 3.0 01:13 UT
Hindu Kush M 4.9 01:18 UT
Solomon Islands M 4.5 Mozambique
Romania M 4.4 01:56 UT
Central California M 2.7 01:05 UT
5780 0335 0347 0355 C4.9 (August 25, 2026) 4.9E-03
Iceland M 4.4 03:38 UT M 2.8 03:29 UT
5800 0355 0402 0407 M1.0 (August 25, 2026) 5.8E-03
Iceland M 2.9 04:11 UT
5790 0548 0555 0600 C1.6 (August 25, 2026) 1.2E-03
Iceland M 2.9, 4.2, 3.0, 3.3, 2.9 05:46-06:00 UT
Utah M 2.1 05:55 UT
5810 0630 0640 0646 M1.8 (August 25, 2026) 9.2E-03
SW Sumatra M 4.2 06:44 UT
Taiwan M 5.5 07:00 UT
Iceland M 2.9 04:54 UT
5820 0722 0728 0734 C6.2 (August 25, 2026) 3.5E-03
Northern Alaska M 2.6 07:22 UT
Chiapas M 4.1, 4.2, 4.1 07:37-07:49 UT
5840 0932 1002 1013 M6.9 (August 25, 2026) 6.9E-02
Mammoth Lakes, CA M 2.2 09:52 UT
Guatemala M 4.0 10:20 UT
5880 1238 1258 1316 C4.7 (August 25, 2026) 9.4E-03
Sumatra M 3.6 12:38 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 26 major storms August 27-28. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 4, high: 1, mid-latitude: 6, time of max k: 14:00-16:00 UT; Max k: 3 Global Kp 1.67 0300-0500, August 25; Sunspot Number: 83; Radio Flux: 132 August 25, 2026.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 3.0 in the past 24 hours.
A geomagnetic excursion was registered by the GOES satellite magnetometer (at 137W)
beginningabout 16:20 UT on August 25, 2026. An arcjet maneuver started
around 17:08 UT and normal operations resumed by 18:10 UT. An earthquake of M 4.5
and a strong volcanic eruption in Vanuatu coincided with this geomagnetic
anomaly and may have been relate to it.
O: 25AUG2026 16:23:33 14.2S 170.5E MB=4.5 EMSC VANUATU REGION
August 25, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The full moon and lunar eclipse will arrive on August 28, 2026 at 04:18 UT. This eclipse will be a partial visible in the Americas, Europe and Africa with peak at 04:14 UT.i The maximum eclipse will be visible in Bolivia and northern Chile and southern Peru where the M 6.7 occurred several days ago. Lunar eclipses following two weeks after solar eclipses often continue enhanced seismicity begun with the solar eclipse and can trigger new seismicity in areas where the eclipse is visible. This is the largest magnitude partial lunar eclipse of the Saros 138 series which lasts for 1450 years starting in 1521 and ending in 2982 so it is significant in that sense. This in turn, considerably enhances tidal stresses (at the inverse third power of distance) and can lead to larger global earthquakes within a couple of days of the full moon. Longitudes at local solar noon are near 115 East and those at local solar midnight are near 65 West longitude. In the west these include the northern and Eastern Caribbean as well as areas of western South America while in the East longitudes near 120 E are located in the Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia among others. These are the most likely areas to see tidal triggering at this time, but other areas could see significant enhancement in seismicity in the next several days. These would most likely see seismic enhancement near local solar noon or midnight. A strong to major earthquake is considered likely with this full moon.
A notable series of moderate earthquake occurred in Iceland today.
The largest of these was M 4.2 and M 4.4 near Reykjanes, Iceland.
They occurred at a location which witnessed the total eclipse of the
sun on August 12, 2026 as noted in previous issues of this summary:
"The new moon and solar eclipse arrived on August 12, 2026 at 17:37 UT. This will include a total eclipse of the sun. This eclipse will be total near Iceland and Greenland at its peak with the greatest eclipse at 65N 25W over Iceland and will also be total in the area of Spain, Portugal, Southern France and northern Italy. These areas could see significantly enhanced seismicity beginning in several days. ..." (August 10-14, 2026)
The location where this eclipse was seen with maximum duration was at
63,3N 24.3W with duration of 2m18 sec at 17:49 UT. Readers should
note the correspondence to the location of today's swarm before invoking
"coincidence".
These epicenters are at the third node (120 dgrees) from Flores and at 101 degrees
from Sumatra and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 25AUG2026 05:38:10 63.4N 24.3W ML=3.3 EMSC ICELAND REGION
O: 25AUG2026 05:46:04 63.7N 23.4W ML=4.2 EMSC ICELAND REGION
O: 25AUG2026 05:47:52 63.7N 23.3W ML=3.0 EMSC ICELAND REGION
O: 25AUG2026 05:49:37 63.7N 23.4W ML=3.4 EMSC ICELAND REGION
O: 25AUG2026 07:31:18 63.7N 23.4W ML=3.8 EMSC ICELAND REGION
O: 25AUG2026 03:38:11 63.8N 23.2W ML=4.4 EMSC ICELAND REGION
An unheralded (in this summary) earthquake was also reported by EMSC of M 3.6
off the coast of Ireland in the North Atlantic on August 21. The total eclipse
of the sun was visible for 2min4sec beginning at 18:16 UT on August 12 at the
epicenter of this earthquake according to NASA online data. The last earthquake
within about 150 km of this epicenter in the North Atlantic recorded with
M>=3.0 occurred more than 35 years ago, so this is a significant earthquake
in a non-seismic area. Together with the swarm in the Greenland Sea and
the swarm in Spain near the path of totality, these earthquakes in the
North Atlantic and in Iceland should settle the question whether earthquakes
can be triggered by conditions at the time of solar eclipses in the positive.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from northern Sumatra and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21AUG2026 12:05:11 50.3N 13.9W ML=3.4 EMSC NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN
An earthquake of M 5.5 occurred today in the area of Taiwan. NEIC reported it was felt in southern Taiwan in Taitung with intensity IV and III in Taichung and Kaohsiung with II in Chiayi, Taipei, Tainan, and Hsinchu Counties.
This occurred as Typhoon Saudel was making landfall north of Taiwan in
the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. The last earthquake in Taiwan within about 150
km of today's epicenter with M>=5.5 occurred on Arpil 4, 2026 - alsowith M 5.5 but
the last event of larger magnitude in thearea was an M 6.0 on December 24, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong M 6.0 occurred today in the region of southern Taiwan. NEIC reported it was
felt with intensity VI in Taiwan at Taitung; IV in Changhua, Kaohsiung, and III in Pingtung, Taipei, Kaohsiung and Yunlin, Taiwan.
CWB, the local network gave this earthquake M 6.1. That network reported intensity
up to V in Taitung with IV in Hualien, Kaohsiung, III in Nantou, Tainan, Chiayi, Changhua, Taichung, Miaoli, Yilan, Hsinchu, Taoyuan, Taipei, Pingtung, and Penghu Counties, Taiwan.
A foreshock of M 4.9 about 100 km north of the mainshock occurred about a day earlier
CWB reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Taiwan in Hualien, and II in Taitung, Taichung, Yunlin, Chiayi, Changhua Counties.
The last earthquake in Taiwan with M>=6.1 was recorded by NEIC as occurring
on August 15, 2024 with M 6.1 but the last of significantly larger magnitude
was an M 7.5 on April 2, 2024..." (December 24, 2025)
Today's event in Taiwan is at 104 degrees from Hurricane Iselle and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 25AUG2026 07:00:10 22.6N 121.7E MW=5.5 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
Two moderate earthquake of M 4.3 and M 4.7 occurred today south of Hokkaido,
Japan in northern Honshu. These followed the strongest earthquake in the world yesterday - an M 6.0 in Hokkaido, Japan. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Aomori, Japan at Hachinohe and in Hokkaido at Sapporo, Chitose, Otaru as well as in Hamamatsu, Shiuoka.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Flores and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 24AUG2026 18:07:02 40.6N 142.6E MB=4.7 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAP
O: 24AUG2026 14:47:30 40.0N 142.8E ML=4.3 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 23AUG2026 13:44:53 41.9N 142.8E MW=6.0 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Costa Rica with intensity VII in Costa Rica at Cot, Cartago; IV in San Jose at Ipis and San Antonio de Desamparados; V in San Antonio Aljuela, San ?Jose, Sabanilla, San Rafael, San Vicente, and IV in Cartago, San Miguel, Angeles, Heredia, Concepcion, Guadalupe, Escazu, Pital, Curridabat, Salitral, and III in San Josecito, Alajuela, San Juan, Santiago, and others as far as 100 km from the epicenter.
Costa Rica is nearly sub-solar on this date of the year and may have
been promoted ty tidal stresses. It occurred near local solar midnight.
O: 24AUG2026 07:37:17 10.0N 83.9W ML=4.9 NEIC COSTA RICA
O: 24AUG2026 07:37:19 10.2N 83.9W MB=4.9 EMSC COSTA RICA
O: 24AUG2026 07:39:39 10.1N 84.0W ML=4.6 EMSC COSTA RICA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in the Rat Islands, Aleutians may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Rat Islands, Alaska.
O: 24AUG2026 08:25:03 52.0N 176.3E ML=3.1 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 24AUG2026 12:04:21 52.0N 176.3E ML=3.6 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 24AUG2026 11:17:56 52.1N 176.4E ML=3.0 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
Major aftershocks in the Flores Sea have ceased as of August 25. This has been
a very active aftershock sequence starting with the mainshock of M 7.7
on August 14, 2026 with the new moon and solar eclipse. The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 4,9 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
O: 24AUG2026 15:12:15 7.8S 120.5E MB=4.8 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 24AUG2026 09:19:44 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 24AUG2026 13:14:14 8.2S 121.0E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 25AUG2026 00:05:24 8.2S 120.6E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 25AUG2026 00:37:44 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
The swarm of earthquakes in the Coso area of Central California continued
today and was joined by a second swarm in the Mammoth Lakes region north
of this near the California-Nevada border. The Coso swarm began around
August 21, 2026 and was described in this summary at the time as:
"NEIC reported the earthquake swarm Central California (Coso) continued today with maximum magnitude events of M 4.0 and 3.5. NEIC reported they were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of California at East Tulare County, Inyokern, La Grange, Ridgecrest and in Las Vegas Nevada.
This activity is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hurricane Lala and
may have been promoted be energy from that source." (August 21, 2026)
O: 24AUG2026 07:51:44 36.1N 117.8W ML=2.7 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 10:32:55 36.1N 117.8W ML=2.2 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 10:38:14 36.1N 117.8W ML=2.0 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 12:11:19 36.1N 117.8W ML=1.9 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 18:47:57 36.1N 117.8W ML=2.0 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 23:31:10 36.1N 117.8W ML=2.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 25AUG2026 05:17:46 36.1N 117.8W ML=2.0 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
The swarm in the Mammoth Lakes areas is new. The area has been showing
new signs of plutonism and increasing swelling, not unlike the situation
before the series of strong earthquakes there in May, 1980. A moderate to strong
earthquake is possible in this region in the near term. The current swarm
in Mammoth Lakes began with an M 3.4 on August 14, 2026 and may have been
triggered by the solar eclipse of August 12. It occurred within minutes
of local solar noon and was likely tidally triggered.
This activity is at the third node from Flores (120 degrees); the fourth node
from Typhoon Saudel (90 degrees); the seventh node from Colombia (51 degrees)
and at 45.0 degrees (node 8) from the current eye of Hurricane Lala and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 24AUG2026 08:56:14 37.4N 118.8W MD=1.8 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 08:57:38 37.4N 118.8W MD=2.2 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 09:39:40 37.4N 118.8W MD=2.5 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 13:23:10 37.4N 118.8W MD=2.5 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 14:09:10 37.4N 118.8W MD=2.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 24AUG2026 18:13:18 37.5N 118.8W MD=2.3 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Honduras was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Honduras in Islas de la Bahia at Savannah and Jose Santos and Sady Bay and in Corozal, Belize.
O: 25AUG2026 03:13:26 16.9N 85.6W MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH OF HONDURAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Romania was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Romania in Ilfov at Chitila and Chiahna and in Darmanesti Dambovita with lesser shaking in Sanmartin and Bucharest.
EMSC reported no damage but strong shaking in Romania at Focsani, Buzau, Popesti, Rastoaca, Ploiesti, Slobozia Conachi, Trestiana, Fantanele, Tunari, Galati, Otopeni, Braila, Voluntari, Matasaru, Pantelimon, Bragadiru, Vaslui, and in Moldova at Taraclia, Chisinau.
This epicenter is near 100 degrees from Flores and the current eye of Hurricane Lala
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 25AUG2026 01:56:39 45.6N 26.5E MB=4.4 EMSC ROMANIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Afghanistan with V in Jalal Abad.
EMSC reported moderate to strong earthquake in Afghanistan at Jalalabad, Khafizan, Nangarhar, Bagrami, Kabul.
O: 25AUG2026 01:18:45 34.5N 70.6E MB=4.9 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
The strongest earthquake inthe world today was an M 6.0 and M 5.5 in the Banda Sea,
Indonesia. NEIC reported the M 5.5 was likely felt with intensity up to IV
near Amahai, Indonesia while the M 6.0 was likely felt with intensity up to IV in the
area of Lospalos, Timor, Indonesia.
O: 24AUG2026 10:02:58 5.0S 129.7E MW=5.5 EMSC BANDA SEA
O: 25AUG2026 03:06:19 6.6S 127.6E MB=4.7 EMSC BANDA SEA
O: 24AUG2026 14:10:17 6.7S 127.4E Mw=6.0 EMSC BANDA SEA
O: 24AUG2026 19:00:03 6.7S 127.5E mb=5.0 EMSC BANDA SEA
EMSC reported a minor aftershock of M 2.0 in Spain was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Spain at Huetor Vega.
The M 2.3 was felt lightly in Spain at Gojar, Las Gabias, Churriana de la Vega, Armilla, Cullar-Vega, Granada, Torrox Costa.
O: 24AUG2026 07:15:23 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.3 EMSC SPAIN
O: 25AUG2026 06:20:35 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Colombia in Toro, Montenegro, Dosquebradas, Pereira, Cali, Ibague, Itagui, Envigado, Medellin, Soacha, Bogota, Barrio San Luis, and Ocana.
O: 24AUG2026 18:55:21 4.5N 76.5W MB=4.5 EMSC COLOMBIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NARRA (TD 18W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NARRA 2026-08-25 00:00 UT 20.0N 109.6E 35 kts South China Sea
TD Narra (18W) continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 35 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could occur with this storm in the China Sea.
TROPICAL STORM MOKE (02C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS MOKE 2026-08-25 00:00 UT 15.3N 157.9W 40 kts east of Hawaii
TS Moke (TD 02C) continued today in the Northern Pacific south of Hawaii with winds up to 40 kts and is expected to dissipate today or August 25. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the East African Rift Valley near Malawi (at 15S 23E) could occur.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-25 00:00 UT 34.9N 177.4W 55 kts Northwest of Hawaii
Hurricane Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 55 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 35S 3E) is not likely at this time.
TROPICAL STORM ISELLE (09E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ISELLE 2026-08-25 00:00 UT 20.9N 121.4W 65 kts west of Mexico
TS Lala (09E) continued today in the Northern Pacific west of Mexico with winds up to 65 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean at 21S 59E is possible with this storm. Local seismic enhancement is unlikely at this time.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-25 00:00 UT 27.5N 128.1E 100 kts Northern Pacific north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area of the North Pacific south of Honshu, Japan
with winds up to 100 kts. It is likely to promoted enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time and in the Ryukyu Islands around August 25-27.
The antipode at 27S 52W is not a seismic area.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the north Pacific. This storm is currently
locate at 16N 166E with winds to 26 kts and moving NNW. This area of the
North Pacific is not seismic. The antipode at 16S 14W however is on the
Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge and is active and could see additional
seismicity with this storm.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5660 0706 0723 0748 C2.2 (August 24, 2026) 4.2E-03
Costa Rica M 4.9, M 4.6, 07:37, 07:38 UT
5720 1703 1711 1723 C1.4 (August 24, 2026) 1.7E-03
5740 1809 1815 1819 C1.5 (August 24, 2026) 8.1E-04
Honshu, Japan M 4.7 18:07 UT
5750 1851 1936 1954 M1.7 (August 24, 2026) 3.6E-02
Colombia M 4.5 18:55 UT
Banda Sea M 5.0 19:00 UT
Java M 4.0 19:11 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 25-27. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 3, mid-latitude: 8, time of max k: 14:00-16:00 UT; Max k: 3 Global Kp 3.00 2200-2400, August 24; Sunspot Number: 84; Radio Flux: 143 August 24, 2026.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 3.0 in the past 24 hours.
August 24, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong excursion in the strength of the geomagnetic field measured at GOES 19 occurred
on August 24, beginning near 00:30 UT. An arcjet correction was made and normal operations
resumed by 02:10 UT. An unusual earthquake of M 4.9 in Sichuan and Guizhou, China
wassynchronous with the start of this magnetic field change and may have
been promoted by it.
NEIC reported this earthquake in China was lightly felt in the Bowangshan area of
China.
This epicenter is at 147 degrees from Colombia and may have been promooted by energy from that source.
O: 24AUG2026 00:26:26 28.4N 105.2E ML=4.9 EMSC SICHUAN-GUIZHOU BORDER, CHINA
O: 24AUG2026 00:22:05 7.8S 120.4E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA, INDONESIA
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.0 in Hokkaido, Japan. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Aomori, Japan at Hachinohe and in Hokkaido at Sapporo, Chitose, Otaru as well as in Hamamatsu, Shiuoka.
O: 23AUG2026 13:44:53 41.8N 142.8E ML=6.0 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Costa Rica with intensity VII in Costa Rica at Cot, Cartago; IV in San Jose at Ipis and San Antonio de Desamparados; V in San Antonio Aljuela, San ?Jose, Sabanilla, San Rafael, San Vicente, and IV in Cartago, San Miguel, Angeles, Heredia, Concepcion, Guadalupe, Escazu, Pital, Curridabat, Salitral, and III in San Josecito, Alajuela, San Juan, Santiago, and others as far as 100 km from the epicenter.
Costa Rica is nearly sub-solar on this date of the year and may have
been promoted ty tidal stresses. It occurred near local solar midnight.
O: 24AUG2026 07:37:17 10.0N 83.9W ML=4.9 NEIC COSTA RICA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in the Rat Islands, Aleutians may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Rat Islands, Alaska.
O: 23AUG2026 23:23:20 52.2N 176.4E ML=5.0 NEIC RAT ISLANDS, ALASKA
The strongest aftershock today in the Flores Sea aftershock sequence was an M 5.2 in the Flores Sea and was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ruteng, Timor.
O: 23AUG2026 21:20:15 8.2S 120.8E ML=5.2 NEIC FLORES SEA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M in was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of
"NEIC reported the earthquake swarm Central California (Coso) continued today with maximum magnitude events of M 4.0 and 3.5. NEIC reported they were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of California at East Tulare County, Inyokern, La Grange, Ridgecrest and in Las Vegas Nevada.
This activity is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hurricane Lala and
may have been promoted be energy from that source." (August 21, 2026)
O: 23AUG2026 08:01:15 36.1N 117.8W ML=3.4 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 23AUG2026 09:16:58 36.1N 117.8W ML=3.5 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 23AUG2026 07:59:55 36.1N 117.8W ML=4.0 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NARRA (TD 18W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NARRA 2026-08-24 00:00 UT 19.9N 107.3E 50 kts South China Sea
TD Narra (18W) continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could occur with this storm in the China Sea.
TROPICAL STORM MOKE (02C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS MOKE 2026-08-24 00:00 UT 15.3N 157.9W 40 kts east of Hawaii
TS Moke (TD 02C) continued today in the Northern Pacific south of Hawaii with winds up to 40 kts and is expected to dissipate today or August 25. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the East African Rift Valley near Malawi (at 15S 23E) could occur.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-24 00:00 UT 33.2N 174.4W 70 kts Northwest of Hawaii
Hurricane Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts (category 1 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 33S 6E - west of Southern Africa) is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity.
TROPICAL STORM ISELLE (09E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ISELLE 2026-08-24 00:00 UT 17.6N 115.8W 65 kts west of Mexico
TS Lala (09E) continued today in the Northern Pacific west of Mexico with winds up to 65 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean at 17S 65E is possible with this storm. Local seismic enhancement is unlikely at this time.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-24 00:00 UT 24.5N 134.7E 130 kts Northern Pacific north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area of the North Pacific south of Honshum Japan
with winds up to 130 kts. It is likely to promoted enhanced seismicity in
the area of Honshu and Hokkaido at this time and in the Ryukyu Islands around August 25-27.
The antipode at 24S 46W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days.
A Tropical Depression may be forming south of Typhoon Saudel. This TD (19W)
is expected to remain weak and not to signficantly affect seismicity at this time.
The eye is current at 15N 140E with winds up to 40 kts.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 0706 0723 0740 C2.2 (August 24, 2026) 4.2E-03 *
Guatemala M 3.1 07:05 UT
Spain M 2.3 07:15 UT
Costa Rica M 4.9, 4.607:37. -7:40 UT
Haiti M 3.2 07:39 UT
5510 0423 0432 0441 C1.1 (August 23, 2026) 1.1E-03
Cyprus M 2.9 04:24 UT
5520 0457 0505 0512 C1.1 (August 23, 2026) 1.0E-03
Kenai, Aaska M 3.4 05:06 UT
Minaasa M 4.2 05:11 UT
5530 0624 0653 0717 C4.1 (August 23, 2026) 9.3E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.5 06:43 UT
5550 1001 1008 1011 C1.7 (August 23, 2026) 8.2E-04
Chiapas M 4.4 10:02 UT
Kashmir M 4.6 10:04 UT
Guadeloupe M 4.1 10:16 UT
5570 1311 1315 1318 C1.7 (August 23, 2026) 6.7E-04
5580 1334 1342 1349 C1.0 (August 23, 2026) 9.1E-04
Hokkaido M 6.0 13:45 UT
5590 1616 1628 1645 C1.4 (August 23, 2026) 2.1E-03
Hokkaido M 4.0 16:36 UT
5600 1928 1935 1937 C2.7 (August 23, 2026) 1.1E-03
5620 2147 2203 2219 C3.5 (August 23, 2026) 5.0E-03
Oaxaca M 4.0 22:09 UT
Jalisco M 3.6 22:01 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 24-26. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 5, mid-latitude: 6, time of max k: 09:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 3 Global Kp 2.00 1000-1300, August 21; Sunspot Number: 73; Radio Flux: 128 August 23, 2026.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 3.0 in the past 24 hours.
August 23, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake felt in the world today was an M 5.8 near Tokyo, Japan with VI in Chiba, Japan at Inzai and V in Matsudo, Urayasu, Nagareyama, Chiba and in Ibaraki at Tsuchiura, Nake and Tokyo at Machida and in Ebina, Kanagawa.
O: 22AUG2026 17:00:39 35.9N 140.1E ML=5.8 NEIC TOKYO JAPAN
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 Morro Bay.
O: 23AUG2026 00:47:53 35.9N 120.4E ML=2.8 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
The strongest earthquake (felt or unfelt) in the world today was an M 6.2 in the Drake Passage
south of South America. It was preceded by a foreshock of M 5.7. NEIC reported it may have been felt in the Scotia
Sea with intensity up to M 6.2. This is the strongest earthquake in the
Scotia Sea within about 250 km of this epicenter since an M 7.8 and M 6.8 on November 16 and 17, 2013 and an M 7.1-7.6 on
August 4, 2003. At the time this summary noted:
"After a series of foreshocks including events of M 6.1 and 6.8 over the past
three days, an major earthquake of M 7.3-7.8 hit the Scotia Sea early on
November 17. This event is almost certainly tidally triggered as it occurred
within hours of the full moon alignment at the longitude of strongest tidal effects. It
is the strongest earthquake ever to hit this region of the South Atlantic
near Antarctica. This summary has followed this sequence in detail and noted in our previous summary:
"This earthquake in the Scotia Sea was likely triggered by tidal and geomagnetic
effects. In this summary yesterday, it was noted that regions around 50 West
longitude were likely at this time to see strong increases in seismicty
due to tidal effects of the upcoming full moon. This is the only seismic area
capable of strong earthquakes near 50 West longitude. The other longitude
(130E) was also active with the second largest event of the day - an M 5.3-5.6
in the northern Ryukyu Islands. The seismic watch had noted:" (November 15-17, 2013)
These epicenters are at the fifth node (72 degres) from Venezuela and at the eighth node (135 degrees) from Typhoon Saubel may have been
promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 22AUG2026 07:40:12 60.3S 47.3W MB=5.7 NEIC SCOTIA SEA
O: 22AUG2026 08:22:37 60.4S 47.6W MB=6.2 NEIC SCOTIA SEA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NARRA (TD 18W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NARRA 2026-08-23 00:00 UT 20.5N 107.3E 50 kts South China Sea
TD Narra (18W) continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could occur with this storm in the China Sea.
TROPICAL STORM MOKE (02C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS MOKE 2026-08-23 00:00 UT 14.9N 153.9W 45 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Moke (TD 02C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 45 kts. It is tracking to the northwest and will pass south of Hawaii on August 24-25 possibly helping to promote seismicity near Loi'hi Seamount which is currently active. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the East African Rift Valley near Malawi (at 15S 27E) could occur.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-23 00:00 UT 31.7N 172.4W 80 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts (category 1 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 31S 5E - west of Southern Africa) is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity.
TROPICAL STORM ISELLE (09E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS ISELLE 2026-08-23 00:00 UT 16.7N 113.4W 50 kts west of Mexico
TS Lala (09E) formed today in the Northern Pacific west of Mexico with winds up to 55 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean at 17S 65E is possible with this storm.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-23 00:00 UT 21.6N 140.8E 125 kts Northern Pacific north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area of the North Pacific in the Volcano and
Bonin Islands, Japan area with winds up to 115 kts today.
This storm could possibly promote a moderate to
strong earthquake in the region of southern Japan.
The antipode at 21S 40W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days.
A Tropical Depression may be forming south of Typhoon Saudel. This TD (19W)
is expected to remain weak and not to signficantly affect seismicity at this time.
The eye is current at 15N 140E with winds up to 40 kts.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5460 1814 1823 1829 C1.4 (August 22, 2026) 1.2E-03
Ryukyu Is. M 4.4 18:44 UT
Antofagasta M 4.6 18:46 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 23-25. Solar M-flare chance: 40% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 4, high: 3, mid-latitude: 5, time of max k: 12:00-14:00 UT; Max k: 3 Global Kp 1.33 0000-0300, August 22; Sunspot Number: 87; Radio Flux: 124 August 22, 2026.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 2.0 in the past 24 hours.
August 22, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.2 in the Drake Passage
south of South America. It was preceded by a foreshock of M 5.7. NEIC reported it may have been felt in the Scotia
Sea with intensity up to M 6.2. This is the strongest earthquake in the
Scotia Sea within about 250 km of this epicenter since an M 7.8 and M 6.8 on November 16 and 17, 2013 and an M 7.1-7.6 on
August 4, 2003. At the time this summary noted:
"After a series of foreshocks including events of M 6.1 and 6.8 over the past
three days, an major earthquake of M 7.3-7.8 hit the Scotia Sea early on
November 17. This event is almost certainly tidally triggered as it occurred
within hours of the full moon alignment at the longitude of strongest tidal effects. It
is the strongest earthquake ever to hit this region of the South Atlantic
near Antarctica. This summary has followed this sequence in detail and noted in our previous summary:
"This earthquake in the Scotia Sea was likely triggered by tidal and geomagnetic
effects. In this summary yesterday, it was noted that regions around 50 West
longitude were likely at this time to see strong increases in seismicty
due to tidal effects of the upcoming full moon. This is the only seismic area
capable of strong earthquakes near 50 West longitude. The other longitude
(130E) was also active with the second largest event of the day - an M 5.3-5.6
in the northern Ryukyu Islands. The seismic watch had noted:" (November 15-17, 2013)
These epicenters are at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Venezuela and at the eighth node (135 degrees) from Typhoon Saudel may have been
promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 22AUG2026 07:40:12 60.3S 47.3W MB=5.7 NEIC SCOTIA SEA
O: 22AUG2026 08:22:37 60.4S 47.6W MB=6.2 NEIC SCOTIA SEA
A moderately strong earthquake o M 5.7 occurred south of Sumatra today near
local solar midnight. NEIC reported it was felt with II in Karawang, Java, Indonesia.
This was the expected location and epicenter for a moderately strong
antipodal aftershock following the M 7.4 in Colombia as noted at the time
in this summary:
"After a moderate earthquake in Sumatra occurred yesterday this summary discussed
the relation between Sumatra and Colombia earthquakes (see this issue below).
In particular it is worthwhile to note the antipodal relation of today's
event in Colombia with the earlier M 5.3 in Sumatra. Within error limits
imposed by depth and size of the rupture zone, these two are very nearly
exactly antipodal (compare 5S and 5N and 103E and 76W for antipodality)." (August 12, 2026)
O: 21AUG2026 17:41:44 7.5S 104.6E MB=5.7 NEIC SOUTH OF SUMATRA
A set of earthquake in northern Mindanao, Philippines occurred today with M 5.2, NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity IV in the Philippines in Carag at Butuan and III in Dapa and Purok and in northern Mindanao at Barra and Gingoog. EMSC reported moderate shaking in Canitoan and Cagayan de Oro, northern Mindanao.
NEIC reported the event of M 4.9 on August 23, 2026 was felt lightly in Butuan, Caraga and II in Barra Northern Mindanao.
These events in Mindanao appear to have been promoted by SFE associated with
a moderate M1.6 solar flare as they begin three minutes into the flare.
Preliminary data for this flare from SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0909 1000 1100 M1.6 (August 21, 2026) 2.7E-02
Mindanao M 5.2, 5.1 09:12, 09:22 UT
Myanmar M 4.1 09:09 UT
South Is. NZ 09:57 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 09:26 UT
O: 21AUG2026 09:12:20 9.3N 125.3E ML=5.2 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21AUG2026 09:12:20 9.3N 125.3E MB=5.2 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21AUG2026 09:22:36 9.5N 125.6E mb=5.1 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21AUG2026 09:22:36 9.5N 125.6E ML=5.1 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 22AUG2026 04:44:08 9.5N 125.6E ML=5.0 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
Several moderate aftershocks in Flores continued to be felt. The strongest aftershocks
in the Flores Sea area in the past 24 hours was of M 5.7. It occurred near local
solar midnight and may have been promoted by energy from tides or geomagnetic
effects. NEIC reported these aftershocks were being felt with light intensity
in Ende, Indonesia, with EMSC reporting level IV in Labuan Bajo and Banjar Pasekan, Indonesia.
This increased seismicity in the Flores aftershock zone may be related
to the current location of the eye of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific.
The distance from Lala to Flores today was at the fifth node (72 degrees)
and seismic promotion is common between strong events at this distance.
O: 20AUG2026 18:12:51 8.3S 121.4E ML=5.6 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
An M 4.6 earthquake occurred south of San Jose Village in the northern Mariana chain today.
This follows an M 4.5 in 4.9 south of this in the area of Saipan at Garanpan several hours earlier. the area yesterday which this summary noted as:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in the northern Mariana Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the northern Mariana Islands near Saipan.
This event may have been promoted by energy associated with Tropical Storm
Saudel which was bearing down on this epicenter when this earthquake occurred.
Following are the current particulars for TS Saudel:
"Tropical Storm Saudel (Tropical depression 17W) continued in the area of the North Pacific east of
Yap, Caroline Islands and Guam today with winds up to 75 kts.
It is expected to track to the north and west over the next few days and to reach
Guam and Micornesia in the next two days, possibly promoting a moderate to
strong earthquake in that region near the time of landfall north of Guam as a typhoon with wind gusts up to 145 kts. It will then proceed to the Volcano Islands and Bonin Islands of Japan as a typhoon with winds up to
150 kts around August 23-24. Some seismic enhancement is likely
in these islands at that time. Current position at 15N 148E is not a seismic area.
The antipode at 15S 32W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days." (August 20-21, 2026)
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from northern Sumatra
and may have been promoted by energy from that source. The eye of Tyhoon Saubel
was about 100 km south of this epicenter when the earthquake hit. It was
probably triggered by energy associated with Typhoon Saudel.
O: 20AUG2026 21:57:40 15.9N 145.6E ML=4.5 NEIC NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
O: 22AUG2026 07:43:51 14.3N 145.3E MB=4.9 NEIC SAN JOSE VILLAGE, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
O: 22AUG2026 05:47:07 13.9N 146.7E MB=4.9 NEIC SAN JOSE VILLAGE, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay and Sagaing.
O: 21AUG2026 09:09:03 21.9N 96.2E ML=4.1 EMSC MYANMAR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in the Northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Northern Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
This epicenter is at 148 degrees from Typhoon Saubel and at the eighth node from
Chiapas and Kyushu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 22AUG2026 07:21:25 12.5N 44.6W ML=4.9 EMSC NORTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
An earthquake in the southern Mid-Atlantic of M 5.3 was also not felt today.
This epicenter is at 142 degrees from Kyushu and may have been promoted
by energy from that source. It is near the antipode of the area where
Typhoon Saubel formed
O: 22AUG2026 01:34:57 12.7N 14.8W ML=5.3 EMSC SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with II in Davo and Barra,
O: 22AUG2026 06:43:39 6.7N 126.7E ML=5.0 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
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 and in Lotung Ilan.
O: 22AUG2026 03:40:14 24.4N 122.0E ML=4.4 NEIC TAIWAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Central California (Coso) as part of a strong swarm in that area today. was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of
This activity is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hurricane Lala and
may have been promoted be energy from that source.
O: 21AUG2026 17:26:17 36.0N 117.8W ML=3.4 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in the Kermadec Islands today.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Typhoon Saudel, Hurricane Lala and
the M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia as well as at 103 degrees from Colombia
and was probably promoted by strong constructive interference of energy from those sources.
This ype of distance relation suggests a stronger quake in this area may be likely in the short term.
O: 21AUG2026 12:19:02 31.9S 178.7W ML=4.9 NEIC KERMADEC ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Izu Islands, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Izu Islands, Japan in Kanagawa Prefecture at Kamakura, Yokosuka, Zushi and Kawasaki and in Tokyo.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Japan at Kokohama, Kawasaki, Urayasu,Komai, Tokyo, and Nishitokyo.
O: 21AUG2026 12:02:07 33.7N 140.4E ML=5.4 NEIC IZU ISLANDS, JAPAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NARRA (TD 18W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NARRA 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 21.1N 108.1W 40 kts South China Sea
TD Narra (18W) continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could occur with this storm in the China Sea.
TROPICAL STORM MOKE (02C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS MOKE 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 13.9N 147.9W 50 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Moke (TD 02C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 50 kts. It is tracking to the northwest and will pass south of Hawaii on August 23-24 possibly helping to promote seismicity near Loi'hi Seamount which is currently active. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the East African Rift Valley near Malawi (at 14S 33E) could occur.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 28.7N 170.4W 90 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 90 kts (category 2 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 29S 9E - west of Southern Africa) is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity.
TYPHOON SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TYPH SAUDEL 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 18.6N 145.8E 115 kts Northern Pacific north of Guam
Typhoon Saudel continued in the area of the North Pacific in the Central
Mariana Islands north of Guam with winds up to 115 kts.
This storm could possibly promoting a moderate to
strong earthquake in the region of Guam or the Mariana Islands in the next two days.
The antipode at 18S 35W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5270 0113 0025 0035 C2.4 (August 21, 2026) 2.4E-03
Fox IS. N 4.2 01:11 UT
Sumatra M 4.4 00:10 UT
Flores M 4.6 01:18 UT
5280 0137 0201 0206 C4.1 (August 21, 2026) 4.7E-03
Flores M 4.6 01:38 UT
Central Turkey M 4.3 02:06 UT
5440 0206 0220 0242 C6.7 (August 21, 2026) 6.7E-03
Central Turkey M 4.3 02:06 UT
Lake Baykal M 4.2 02:18 UT
5300 0347 0352 0357 C1.2 (August 21, 2026) 1.0E-03
Chiapas M 4,2 03:56 UT
5310 0502 0509 0514 C1.5 (August 21, 2026) 1.1E-03
Coquimbo M 4.2 05:04 UT
5320 0539 0552 0615 C1.7 (August 21, 2026) 1.5E-03
5330 0626 0635 0641 C6.2 (August 21, 2026) 6.0E-03
5360 0909 1000 1100 M1.6 (August 21, 2026) 2.7E-02
Mindanao M 5.2, 5.1 09:12, 09:22 UT
Myanmar M 4.1 09:09 UT
South Is. NZ 09:57 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 09:26 UT
5400 1740 1753 1801 C3.4 (August 21, 2026) 2.8E-03 *
Southwest of Sumatra M 5.7 17:42 UT
Ryukyu M 4.7 18:05 UT
5410 1825 1832 1835 C2.0 (August 21, 2026) 1.2E-03
5430 2045 2059 2107 C4.0 (August 21, 2026) 3.6E-03
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled August 21-22 quiet August 23. Solar M-flare chance: 40% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 8, high: 8, mid-latitude: 9, time of max k: 12:00-14:00 UT; Max k: 3 Global Kp 3.33 0000-0300, August 21; Sunspot Number: 59; Radio Flux: 126 August 21, 2026.
A low energy proton storm began about 00:00 UT on August 21 and was increasing
through the remainder of that day reaching storm levels by the end of August 21. This is the first significant
rise in proton flux since the strong proton storm of July 30, 2026. Unlike
that storm which was a sudden commencement event today's is a gradual
increase in low-energy protons. Areas where seismicity may occur with
this storm include Micronesia and the Mariana Islands which often see
enhanced seismicity with proton storms as noted in this summary on
July 30, 2026. This area also has a new Tropical Storm/Typhoon passing
through it at this time (Saudel). A moderate to large earthquake in
the region is possible at this time due to this combination of triggering
effects. On July 20, 2026 this summary noted the previous proton storm as:
"A proton storm commenced on July 30, 2026 at 17:30 UT and reached its maximum intensity at high energy levels around 18:00 UT. It continued at 10MeV warning levels
or higher through the first half of July 31. This is the first measurable
proton storm since July 4, 2026 but that storm did not exceed the SWPC 10 MeV warning threshold.
The last storm to do that occurred on May 27-28, 2026 and was about the same
intensity as today's. Today's proton storm occurred at the same time as
an M2.0 solar flare but may not be related to that flare as it takes time
for solar protons to arrive in the vicinity of the earth. A series of earthquakes
did occur during the solar flare and at the commencement of the proton storm
however. These included the strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.9 in the State
of Yap, Micronesia at the time the storm maximized. It is likely this
earthquake in Micronesia was triggered by the proton storm.
Other earthquakes near the proton storm commencement occurred as an M 2.3 felt
in Los Angeles, California and events of M 5.2 in the Kermadec Islands swarm
and of M 4.3 in western Xizang, China." (July 30, 2026)
Because of its gradual nature today's proton storm is not expected
to greatly enhance seismicity at this time.
A geomagnetic excursion occurred and was measured on the GOES 18 Magnetometer
today beginning about 17:17 UT. An arcjet maneuver returned the satellite
to expected orbit and normal operations resumed by 18:15 UT. As often occurs
this spike in the field intensity was accompanied by an unusual earthquake
- an M 3.4 in the Coso area of Central California at 17:26 UT and an M 5.7
southwest of Sumatra at 17:41 UT. This was the strongest earthquake in
the world on August 21, 2026.
O: 21AUG2026 17:41:44 7.5S 104.5E ML=5.7 EMSC SOUTHWEST OF SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 17:26:17 36.1N 117.8W ML=3.4 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
Hp30 (GFZ) levels did not exceed 3,0 in the past 24 hours. The proton storm
and an accompanying electron enhancement did not affect this index today.
August 21, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong earthquake of M 6.7 has occurred in north-central Peru. EMSC reported it was strongly
felt in central Peru at Cusco, Wanchaq, San Sebastian, Subtanjalla, Ica, Tupac Amaru, Cono Norte, Santiago de Surco, San Francisco De Borja, Santa Anita - Los Ficus, San Isidro, Lima, Calana, Arica, and in La Paz, Bolivia more than 600 km from the epicenter.
It was also felt as far as northern Chile at Iquique. NEIC reported intensity V in Nazca, Ica and Calca, Cusco, Peru and IV in Vista Alegre; III in Cusco, Arequipa, San Luis, Lima and II in Santa Maria, Oxapampa, Huanta and in Iquique, Tarapaca, Chile.
Today's earthquake coincided with the strongest geomagnetic storm since June,
2026 at the geomagnetic equator and was likely promoted by geomagnetic stresses. It occurred near local solar noon following a strong M3.0
solar flare - the third M-class flare of the day and the second strongest
flare reported by EMSC in nearly a month (see discussion in the original
version of this summary below). This suggests that tidal and geomagnetic effects
were closely related to the timing of today's Peruvian earthquake.
Following is the preliminary data for today's M-class flares from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5110 1552 1611 1700 M2.9 (August 20, 2026) 2.7E-02 *
Peru M 6.7 18:00 UT
5070 1132 1142 1230 M8.1 (August 20, 2026) 7.6E-02 *
Fiji M 4.8 12:27 UT
Chiapas M 4.2 12:20 UT
India M 2.8 12:05 UT
Flores M 3.7 11:45 UT
Greenland Sea M 3.8 11:12 UT
5030 0731 0805 0817 M1.8 (August 20, 2026) 2.7E-02
Flores Sea M 5.0, 4.8, 5.1 07:55, 08:00, 08:01 UT
The last earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter in central Peru
with M>=6.7 occurred as an M 7.2 on June 28, 2024 and prior to that on January 14, 2018 and August 24, 2014 - both with M 6.9-7.0.
The strongest earthquake in this area of Peru in the past century occurred
as an M 8.4 on June 23, 2001. A total eclipse of the sun occurred on June 21, 2001
and had been visible in this area of Peru. The coincidence with the solar
eclipse of this earthquake did not go unnoticed in this summary. For example
on August 12, 2026 this summary noted:
"Other examples of major earthquakes associated with total solar eclipses
in South America include an M 8.4 in Peru on June 23, 2001 following a
total eclipse in the same area on June 21, 2001. That earthquake was
described in this summary as:
The earthquake killed at least 75 including at least 26 by a tsunami. Nearly 18,000 homes were destroyed and more than 35,000 damaged in Arequipa, Camana and Tacna while injuring nearly 2700. Besides the 26 killed by the tsunami an additional 64 were missing. Many historic buildings were damaged or destroyed at Arequipa. Landslides blocked many highways. The earthquake followed by several days a total eclipse of the sun in the area. A tsunami was generated with maximum height to 7 meters and inundated up to 1 km inland." (August 12, 2026)
Today's earthquake in Peru was apparently triggered by energy from the revitalized
Hurricane Lala currently northwest of Hawaii at 23.8N 172W with winds
up to 120 kts as previously reported in the earlier version of this
summary:
"HURR LALA 2026-08-20 00:00 UT 23.1N 171.8W 115 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 115 kts (category 4-5 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity as well as continued elevated seismicity in the area of Hawaii." (August 20, 2026)
The epicenter of this event of M 6.7 in Central Peru is at 103 degrees
from the current eye of Hurricane Lala, as readers can verify. It is also
near the antipode of the M 6.9 in Sumatra of August 15. That event in
Sumatra was also at 103 degrees from the then-position of the eye of
Hurricane Lala as noted at the time in this summary as:
An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
...
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source." (August 15-16, 2026)
When a regional foreshock occurred earlier in the day this summary noted
in this regard (see also original below in this summary) :
"An earthquake of M 4.4 occurred in north-central Peru today. EMSC reported
this earthquake was felt strongly in Peru at Punta Hermosa, Santiago de Surco, San Francisco De Borja, San Isidro, La Molina, Vitarte, Santa Anita - Los Ficus, Independencia, Carmen De La Leguna Reynoso, and Ventanilla.
This event may be related to expected near-antipodal activity in Peru
following the M 6.9-7.0 in northern Sumatra of August 15, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"176-180 degrees: Off the coast of Peru, near Ecuador/Galapagos region
(3S 80W). Strong possibility of moderate or large event in Northern
Peru/Colombia or Ecuador near the antipode of today's earthquake within
the next 6 days." (August 16, 2026)
and
"Following the initial publication of this analyses two moderate earthquakes
occurred near the antipode of the Sumatra earthquake in the area of northern
Peru (M 4.6) and in Ecuador at 3S 80W (see above for forecast for these events).
Readers are encouraged to check these for antipodality with northern Sumatra" (August 16, 2026)
Other examples of eclipses and accompanying major earthquakes in Peru
have recently been cited in this summary. For example:
"Probably the most notable instance of antipodal relations between total
solar eclipses and great earthquakes occurred in mid-August, 1868. This
began with an M 8.5 in southern Peru on August 13, 1868 and continued
with an M 7.7 in Ecuador on August 16, 1868. The total solar eclipse
occurred on August 18, 1868 and lasted for a long 6 minutes maximum.
The earthquake was described in this summary as:
"This was one of the most widely investigated earthquakes in South America. Damage occurred throughout southern Peru and northern Chile from Guayaquil on the north to Valparaiso on the south. About 150 were killed in Moquequa alone and 3000 in the region of Arequipa but the total number of deaths ranged from several hundred to an estimated 40,000. Many of the dead were killed by the tsunami while seeking protection from the earthquake at sea walls. Arequipa, Moquegua, Mollendo, Ilo and Arica and other villages and towns in the area were largely destroyed. A tsunami was generated which was observed throughout the Pacific Ocean and did damage in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Hawaii, California and Japan. At Isla, Peru the sea withdrew suddenly and after a delay of 20 minutes in Arica the first wave reach with maximum height up to 17 meters. This tsunami destroyed what was left of Arica. The third or fourth wave was the highest and was described as a wall of water up to 45 feet high. This wave carried several ships as much as three miles inland where they lay for more than 50 years afterwards. A series of foreshocks preceded the earthquake. Cracks formed near Arica which were 5-8 cm wide and issued flows of mud, water and asphyxiating gasses. The air was charged with electricity such that sparks were observed when fingers were run through dry hair. Earthquake lights were observed throughout the Andes as moving balls of light. Waves could be seen passing over the surface of the earth." (August 13, 2025, August 10, 2026)
So stronger activity in Peru is possible at this time.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from the current location of the strong eye
of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 19AUG2026 10:28:05 12.3S 77.0W ML=4.4 NEIC CENTRAL PERU" (August 20, 2026)
As noted above this epicenter in Peru is at 103 degrees from the current
eye of Hurricane Lala and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
This type of triggering was discussed in detail in this summary on August 17, 2026
as:
"In the previous issue of this summary it was observed that:
"An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
This earthquake was located at a depth of 180 km and was widely, but weakly
felt at the surface. EMSC reported strong shaking in Indonesia at Sunggal and in Malaysia
at Klng, Shah Alam, Kampung Sungai Ara, Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Perai, Tanjung Tokong, and Permatang Kuching; in Lhoknga, Indonesia at Banda Aceh and in Thailant in Phuket and Thalang.
NEIC reported intensity IV in Sumatra at Gunung Stoli, Sibolga, Padang and III in Malaysia at Georgetown, Tanjong Tokong, Kuah, Bukit Baru, Juru Pulau and in Phangnga, Thailand
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source." (August 16, 2026)
It seems it is necessary to justify the final statement in this paragraph.
Lots of places in the world are at 103-104 degrees from the position in the north Pacific of Hurricane
Lala on August 15-16, 2026 so why is this particularly noteworthy? First 103-104 degrees
is a distance of particular interest because waves from disturbances on the earth's surface reflect and refract
off the core-mantle boundary and return to the surface en masse in this limited distance
range (also called the p- and s-wave shadow zone boundary. In many cases
significant seismicity then follows in this distance range from major
surficial disturbances (such as strong ocean storm, earthquakes, etc.).
Given that such triggering is possible and observed, it would not
be wise to ignore it in situations such as the occurrence of the M 6.9 in
Sumatra coincident with the landfall of Hurricane Lala in Hawaii. But there
is more to this story. One might ask why the larger M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia
a day earlier was not also similarly triggered. In the view of this summary
it was!! At the time of these major earthquakes there were two strong
Tropical Cyclones in the North Pacific - the above mentioned Hurricane Lala
and a Tropical Storm - Hernan to the east of Lala. Data from this summary
on the locations of these two storms on August 14-15, 2026 as published
at the time follow:
"TS HERNAN 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 15.8N 135.4W 35 kts North Pacific east of Hawaii
TS Hernan (TD 08E) continued today in the Northern Pacific east of Hawaii with winds up to 35 kts. It will track to the west and is expected to dissipate in the North Pacific today before ito reaches Hawaii. No seismic enhancement in the North Pacific or at the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is expected at this time." (August 15, 2026)
"TS LALA 2026-08-15 00:00 UT 17.2N 153.0W 70 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. It will track to the northwest and is expected to reach Hawaii as a Hurricane around August 15-16. A moderate earthquake could occur near the time of landfall of this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 14-15, 2026)
"HURR LALA 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 19.1N 156.5W 80 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific over Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. It is making landfall in Hawaii at the time of this writing. Extensive flooding is expected. A moderate earthquake could occur near Hawaii in the next several days. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 16, 2026)
The M 7.7 in the Flores area of Indonesia was located at 104 degrees from
the eye of TS Hernan at the time of its occurrence. At the same time it was at the
fourth node (90 degrees) from the eye and landfall of Hurricane Lala. This is difficult to reconcile
with a shrug and the word "coincidence" and thus the aforementioned statement.
Readers are welcome to test these distance relations with the recognized
locations of the mainshocks in Sumatra and Flores, Indonesia.
O: 14AUG2026 21:58:24 8.4S 121.4E MW=7.7 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 10:54:53 3.0N 99.0E MW=6.9 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA " (August 17, 2026)
Today's earthquake in Peru was near the landfall location of Tropical Depression 18W
in the South China Sea. The eye of this storm was at about 19N 108E when
the earthquake of M 6.7 struck central Peru at 15S 72W - a close call for antipodality. Along with the other factors noted above antipodal
energy from TD 18W may have helped promote the earthquake in Peru today. This storm
is expected to move to the north and may enhance further seismicity
in northern Chile or Southern Peru in the next several days. Following
are the parameters for TD 18W.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 18W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 18W 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 20.6N 108.6W 40 kts South China Sea
TD 18W continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could be enhanced with this storm in the China Sea.
O: 20AUG2026 18:00:16 14.6S 73.6W ML=6.7 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
O: 20AUG2026 21:30:31 15.0S 74.0W mb=4.4 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
An earthquake of M 4.4 occurred in north-central Peru today. NEIC reported it was felt near the coast of Peru at Lima and San Luis with intensity III. EMSC reported
this earthquake was felt strongly in Peru at Punta Hermosa, Santiago de Surco, San Francisco De Borja, San Isidro, La Molina, Vitarte, Santa Anita - Los Ficus, Independencia, Carmen De La Leguna Reynoso, and Ventanilla.
This event may be related to expected near-antipodal activity in Peru
following the M 6.9-7.0 in northern Sumatra of August 15, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"176-180 degrees: Off the coast of Peru, near Ecuador/Galapagos region
(3S 80W). Strong possibility of moderate or large event in Northern
Peru/Colombia or Ecuador near the antipode of today's earthquake within
the next 6 days." (August 16, 2026)
and
"Following the initial publication of this analyses two moderate earthquakes
occurred near the antipode of the Sumatra earthquake in the area of northern
Peru (M 4.6) and in Ecuador at 3S 80W (see above for forecast for these events).
Readers are encouraged to check these for antipodality with northern Sumatra" (August 16, 2026)
The relation between total solar eclipses and earthquakes in Central Peru
had also been examined in this summary on August 10, 2026 in a historical context
at the time as:
"Probably the most notable instance of antipodal relations between total
solar eclipses and great earthquakes occurred in mid-August, 1868. This
began with an M 8.5 in southern Peru on August 13, 1868 and continued
with an M 7.7 in Ecuador on August 16, 1868. The total solar eclipse
occurred on August 18, 1868 and lasted for a long 6 minutes maximum.
The earthquake was described in this summary as:
"This was one of the most widely investigated earthquakes in South America. Damage occurred throughout southern Peru and northern Chile from Guayaquil on the north to Valparaiso on the south. About 150 were killed in Moquequa alone and 3000 in the region of Arequipa but the total number of deaths ranged from several hundred to an estimated 40,000. Many of the dead were killed by the tsunami while seeking protection from the earthquake at sea walls. Arequipa, Moquegua, Mollendo, Ilo and Arica and other villages and towns in the area were largely destroyed. A tsunami was generated which was observed throughout the Pacific Ocean and did damage in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Hawaii, California and Japan. At Isla, Peru the sea withdrew suddenly and after a delay of 20 minutes in Arica the first wave reach with maximum height up to 17 meters. This tsunami destroyed what was left of Arica. The third or fourth wave was the highest and was described as a wall of water up to 45 feet high. This wave carried several ships as much as three miles inland where they lay for more than 50 years afterwards. A series of foreshocks preceded the earthquake. Cracks formed near Arica which were 5-8 cm wide and issued flows of mud, water and asphyxiating gasses. The air was charged with electricity such that sparks were observed when fingers were run through dry hair. Earthquake lights were observed throughout the Andes as moving balls of light. Waves could be seen passing over the surface of the earth." (August 13, 2025, August 10, 2026)
So stronger activity in Peru is possible at this time.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from the current location of the strong eye
of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 19AUG2026 10:28:05 12.3S 77.0W ML=4.4 NEIC CENTRAL PERU
O: 20AUG2026 18:00:16 14.6S 73.6W ML=6.7 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
O: 20AUG2026 21:30:31 15.0S 74.0W mb=4.4 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
A set of earthquake in northern Mindanao, Philippines occurred today with M 5.2, NEIC reported these earthquakes were felt with intensity IV in the Philippines in Carag at Butuan and III in Dapa and Purok and in northern Mindanao at Barra and Gingoog. EMSC reported moderate shaking in Canitoan and Cagayan de Oro, northern Mindanao.
These events in Mindanao appear to have been promoted by SFE associated with
a moderate M1.6 solar flare as they begin three minutes into the flare.
Preliminary data for this flare from SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0909 1000 1100 M1.6 (August 21, 2026) 2.7E-02
Mindanao M 5.2, 5.1 09:12, 09:22 UT
Myanmar M 4.1 09:09 UT
South Is. NZ 09:57 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 09:26 UT
O: 21AUG2026 09:12:20 9.3N 125.3E ML=5.2 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21AUG2026 09:12:20 9.3N 125.3E MB=5.2 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21AUG2026 09:22:36 9.5N 125.6E mb=5.1 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21AUG2026 09:22:36 9.5N 125.6E ML=5.1 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
The Flores area of Indonesia saw a temporary increase in overall seismicity today the the
eruption of Mount Lewotobi, Laki-Laki nearby.
Several moderate aftershocks in Flores continued to be felt. The strongest aftershocks
in the Flores Sea area in the past 24 hours was of M 5.7. It occurred near local
solar midnight and may have been promoted by energy from tides or geomagnetic
effects. NEIC reported these aftershocks were being felt with light intensity
in Ende, Indonesia, with EMSC reporting level IV in Labuan Bajo and Banjar Pasekan, Indonesia.
This increased seismicity in the Flores aftershock zone may be related
to the current location of the eye of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific.
The distance from Lala to Flores today was at the fifth node (72 degrees)
and seismic promotion is common between strong events at this distance.
O: 20AUG2026 18:12:51 8.3S 121.4E ML=5.6 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
Following are the aftershocks in Flores listed by EMSC with M>=4.
O: 21AUG2026 04:08:08 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 21AUG2026 08:14:00 7.8S 120.5E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 21AUG2026 04:06:32 7.9S 120.4E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 21AUG2026 04:38:22 7.9S 120.4E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 21AUG2026 06:20:18 7.9S 120.7E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 20AUG2026 19:15:34 8.0S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 20AUG2026 07:50:30 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 07:55:03 8.1S 120.6E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 08:53:57 8.1S 120.6E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 23:01:38 8.1S 120.1E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 08:01:34 8.2S 120.7E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 11:01:46 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 19:53:51 8.2S 121.4E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 02:33:09 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 08:30:17 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 08:00:33 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 09:30:52 8.3S 120.6E mb=5.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 09:50:34 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 10:31:52 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 12:28:51 8.3S 120.8E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 16:37:45 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 18:12:51 8.3S 121.4E mb=5.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 19:06:10 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 19:13:03 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 19:24:02 8.3S 121.3E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 22:46:59 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 01:18:07 8.3S 120.5E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 01:38:42 8.3S 121.3E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 01:42:10 8.3S 121.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 02:17:19 8.3S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 06:19:02 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 06:38:26 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 07:34:10 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 21AUG2026 08:54:59 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
Following are the aftershocks in Chiapas, Mexico listed by EMSC with M>=4.
O: 21AUG2026 03:56:23 13.9N 93.1W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 20AUG2026 19:50:00 14.2N 93.3W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 20AUG2026 12:20:27 14.3N 93.3W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 20AUG2026 19:13:34 14.4N 93.4W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
A series of moderate aftershocks following an M 4.7, 4.6 and M 4.9 earlier in the week continued today in the area of Granada, Spain.
Readers can find more details in previous issues of this summary. This
epicenter saw near totality of the sun at the end of the eclipse of August 12, 2026.
Tidal stresses with that alignment may have set this sequence in motion.
Smaller aftershocks continued to be felt lightly throughout the day including
These include the strongest event in the region today - an M 3.4 and an M 2.2 quake that occurred within minutes of local solar
midnight that were felt strongly in Spain at Dillar, Gojar, Zubia, Ogijares, Alhendin, Monachil, Churriana de la Vega, Las Gabias, Huetor Vega, Granada, Maracena, Jun, Albolote, and Malaga for the M 3.4 and in Armilla, Cajar, Granada, and strongly at Viznar for the M 2.2.
These epicenters are at the third node (120 degrees) from Hurricane Lala
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
The following earthquakes of M>=2 were recorded in the Granada aftershock zone today.
The M 2.5 was reported lightly felt in Spain in Zubia, Armilla, Cajar, Huetor Vega, Churriana de la Vega.
The larger event was reported felt at Huetor Vega, Armilla, Granada, Jun, Las Gabias, and Maracena.
O: 21AUG2026 03:44:14 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.4 EMSC SPAIN
O: 21AUG2026 02:05:53 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
O: 21AUG2026 12:16:48 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.5 EMSC SPAIN
An earthquake of M 2.8 was also felt in the Netherlands today. EMSC reported
light shaking in Middelstum and Roodeschool.
This is an unusual earthquake in the Netherlands and is located at 102 degrees from
Hurricane Laa and at 104 degrees from Tropical Storm Saudel and at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from northern Sumatra and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 21AUG2026 03:50:39 53.3N 6.6E ML=2.8 EMSC THE NETHERLANDS
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Central Turkey was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of
O: 21AUG2026 02:06:18 41.0N 33.6E ML=4.3 NEIC CENTRAL TURKEY
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Ryukyu Islands, Japan in Naha, Okinawa.
O: 21AUG2026 00:01:20 26.5N 127.8E ML=4.7 NEIC RYUJYU ISLANDS, JAPAN
O: 21AUG2026 00:01:22 26.5N 127.8E MB=4.7 EMSC RYUKYU ISLANDS, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in the Pacific-Antarctic Ridge was not felt in this remote epicentral area.
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Tropical Storm
Saudel and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
This earthquake occurred about two minutes into solar flare 5240 and may
have been promoted by SFE from that C3.5 solar flare. Data for this
flare from SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5240 2334 2344 2347 C3.5 (August 20, 2026) 1.8E-03
Pacific-Antarctic M 5.0 23:36 UT
O: 20AUG2026 23:36:41 56.6S 141.4W ML=5.0 NEIC PACIFIC-ANTARCTIC RIDGE
O: 20AUG2026 23:36:41 56.6S 141.5W MB=5.0 EMSC PACIFIC-ANTARCTIC RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in the northern Mariana Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the northern Mariana Islands near Saipan.
This event may have been promoted by energy associated with Tropical Storm
Saudel which was bearing down on this epicenter when this earthquake occurred.
Following are the current particulars for TS Saudel:
"Tropical Storm Saudel (Tropical depression 17W) continued in the area of the North Pacific east of
Yap, Caroline Islands and Guam today with winds up to 75 kts.
It is expected to track to the north and west over the next few days and to reach
Guam and Micornesia in the next two days, possibly promoting a moderate to
strong earthquake in that region near the time of landfall north of Guam as a typhoon with wind gusts up to 145 kts. It will then proceed to the Volcano Islands and Bonin Islands of Japan as a typhoon with winds up to
150 kts around August 23-24. Some seismic enhancement is likely
in these islands at that time. Current position at 15N 148E is not a seismic area.
The antipode at 15S 32W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days." (August 20-21, 2026)
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from northern Sumatra
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 20AUG2026 21:57:40 15.9N 145.6E ML=4.5 NEIC NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
O: 20AUG2026 21:57:40 16.0N 145.6E MB=4.5 EMSC ANATAHAN REG, N. MARIANA ISLAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay and Sagaing.
O: 21AUG2026 09:09:03 21.9N 96.2E ML=4.1 EMSC MYANMAR
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Antofagasta, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Antofagasta, Chile in Calama and Antofagasta.
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and may have been
promoted by energy from that source. It is also near the antipode of Tropical
Depression 18W in the South China Sea (see discussion in other parts of
this summary issue) and may have been promoted by focused energy at the
antipode of that storm.
O: 20AUG2026 04:52:52 24.3S 70.4W ML=4.7 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
O: 20AUG2026 20:35:01 24.0S 67.6W ML=4.0 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 18W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 18W 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 20.6N 108.6W 40 kts South China Sea
TD 18W continued today in the South China Sea with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking slowly to the north and west. This storm is antipodal to northern Chile and southern Peru where an M 6.7 hit on August 20 near the landfall of TD 18W. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in Antofagasta and Tarapaca and Arica, Chile and southern and central Peru could be enhanced with this storm in the China Sea.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 02C
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 02C 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 12.9N 145.2W 40 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TD 02C formed today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 40 kts. It is tracking to the northwest and will pass south of Hawaii on August 23-24 possibly helping to promote seismicity near Loi'hi Seamount which is currently active. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the East African Rift Valley near Malawi (at 13S 35E) could be enhanced.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 26.1N 171.9W 100 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 100 kts (category 3 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Atlantic Ocean (at 26S 8E - west of Southern Africa) is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity.
TROPICAL STORM SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS SAUDEL 2026-08-21 00:00 UT 14.9N 148.5E 75 kts Northern Pacific
Tropical Storm Saudel (Tropical depression 17W) continued in the area of the North Pacific east of
Yap, Caroline Islands and Guam today with winds up to 75 kts.
It is expected to track to the north and west over the next few days and to reach
Guam and Micornesia in the next two days, possibly promoting a moderate to
strong earthquake in that region near the time of landfall north of Guam as a typhoon with wind gusts up to 145 kts. It will then proceed to the Volcano Islands and Bonin Islands of Japan as a typhoon with winds up to
150 kts around August 23-24. Some seismic enhancement is likely
in these islands at that time. Current position at 15N 148E is not a seismic area.
The antipode at 15S 32W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 0113 0025 0035 C2.4 (August 21, 2026) 2.4E-03
Fox IS. N 4.2 01:11 UT
Sumatra M 4.4 00:10 UT
Flores M 4.6 01:18 UT
XXXX 0137 0201 0206 C4.1 (August 21, 2026) 4.7E-03
Flores M 4.6 01:38 UT
Central Turkey M 4.3 02:06 UT
XXXX 0206 0220 0242 C6.7 (August 21, 2026) 6.7E-03
Central Turkey M 4.3 02:06 UT
Lake Baykal M 4.2 02:18 UT
XXXX 0347 0352 0357 C1.2 (August 21, 2026) 1.0E-03
Chiapas M 4,2 03:56 UT
XXXX 0502 0509 0514 C1.5 (August 21, 2026) 1.1E-03
Coquimbo M 4.2 05:04 UT
XXXX 0539 0552 0615 C1.7 (August 21, 2026) 1.5E-03
XXXX 0626 0635 0641 C6.2 (August 21, 2026) 6.0E-03
XXXX 0909 1000 1100 M1.6 (August 21, 2026) 2.7E-02
Mindanao M 5.2, 5.1 09:12, 09:22 UT
Myanmar M 4.1 09:09 UT
South Is. NZ 09:57 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 09:26 UT
5110 1552 1611 1700 M2.9 (August 20, 2026) 2.7E-02 *
Peru M 6.7 18:00 UT
5070 1132 1142 1230 M8.1 (August 20, 2026) 7.6E-02 *
Fiji M 4.8 12:27 UT
Chiapas M 4.2 12:20 UT
India M 2.8 12:05 UT
Flores M 3.7 11:45 UT
Greenland Sea M 3.8 11:12 UT
5030 0731 0805 0817 M1.8 (August 20, 2026) 2.7E-02
Flores Sea M 5.0, 4.8, 5.1 07:55, 08:00, 08:01 UT
4940 0041 0049 0057 C1.7 (August 20, 2026) 1.7E-03
Flores Sea 00:41 UT
4950 0100 0104 0108 C2.0 (August 20, 2026) 1.1E-03
4970 0336 0343 0349 C1.5 (August 20, 2026) 1.2E-03
Flores M 4.1, 4.3 03:37 UT
4980 0359 0408 0410 C3.3 (August 20, 2026) 1.4E-03
4990 0437 0449 0456 C3.1 (August 20, 2026) 2.6E-03
Flores M 4.0, M 4.1 04:38, 04:43 UT
Antofagasta M 4.7 04:52 UT
5010 0627 0631 0633 C1.5 (August 20, 2026) 7.1E-04
Chiapas M 4.1 06:25 UT
5060 1012 1019 1024 C2.4 (August 20, 2026) 1.6E-03
5120 1119 1129 1132 C8.0 (August 20, 2026) 7.9E-03
5100 1508 1514 1520 C1.6 (August 20, 2026) 1.2E-03
5140 1717 1722 1726 C2.4 (August 20, 2026) 1.4E-03
5150 1745 1752 1803 C2.6 (August 20, 2026) 2.9E-03
Peru M 6.7 18:00 UT
Flores M 5.6 18:12 UT
5170 1939 1954 2003 C1.8 (August 20, 2026) 2.7E-03
Chiapas M 4.0 19:50 UT
Flores M 5.0 19:53 UT
5190 2003 2008 2010 C2.0 (August 20, 2026) 1.1E-03
5210 2058 2108 2113 C2.7 (August 20, 2026) 1.9E-03
5220 2230 2234 2251 C1.5 (August 20, 2026) 1.9E-03
Flores M 4.0 22:47 UT
5240 2334 2344 2347 C3.5 (August 20, 2026) 1.8E-03
Pacific-Antarctic M 5.0 23:36 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active August 21-23. Solar M-flare chance: 35% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 11, high: 18, mid-latitude: 11, time of max k: 15:00-19:00 UT; Max k: 5 Global Kp 3.33 1500-2000, August 20; Sunspot Number: 72; Radio Flux: 125 August 20, 2026.
A low energy proton storm began about 00:00 UT on August 21 and was increasing
through the first several UT hours of that day. This is the first significant
rise in proton flux since the strong proton storm of July 30, 2026. Unlike
that storm which was a sudden commencement event today's is a gradual
increase in low-energy protons. Areas where seismicity may occur with
this storm include Micronesia and the Mariana Islands which often see
enhanced seismicity with proton storms as noted in this summary on
July 30, 2026. This area also has a new Tropical Storm/Typhoon passing
through it at this time (Saudel). A moderate to large earthquake in
the region is possible at this time due to this combination of triggering
effects. On july 20, 2026 this summary noted the previous proton storm as:
"A proton storm commenced on July 30, 2026 at 17:30 UT and reached its maximum intensity at high energy levels around 18:00 UT. It continued at 10MeV warning levels
or higher through the first half of July 31. This is the first measurable
proton storm since July 4, 2026 but that storm did not exceed the SWPC 10 MeV warning threshold.
The last storm to do that occurred on May 27-28, 2026 and was about the same
intensity as today's. Today's proton storm occurred at the same time as
an M2.0 solar flare but may not be related to that flare as it takes time
for solar protons to arrive in the vicinity of the earth. A series of earthquakes
did occur during the solar flare and at the commencement of the proton storm
however. These included the strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.9 in the State
of Yap, Micronesia at the time the storm maximized. It is likely this
earthquake in Micronesia was triggered by the proton storm.
Other earthquakes near the proton storm commencement occurred as an M 2.3 felt
in Los Angeles, California and events of M 5.2 in the Kermadec Islands swarm
and of M 4.3 in western Xizang, China." (July 30, 2026)
Because of its gradual nature today's proton storm is not expected
to greatly enhance seismicity at this time.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels reached 4.0 at 22:30-23:00 UT on August 19, a minor
geomagnetic storm level.
August 20, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
UPDATE:
A strong earthquake of M 6.7 has occurred in north-central Peru. EMSC reported it was strongly
felt in central Peru at Cusco, Wanchaq, San Sebastian, Subtanjalla, Ica, Tupac Amaru, Cono Norte, Santiago de Surco, San Francisco De Borja, Santa Anita - Los Ficus, San Isidro, Lima, Calana, Arica, and in La Paz, Bolivia more than 600 km from the epicenter.
It was also felt as far as northern Chile at Iquique. NEIC reported intensity V in Nazca, Ica and Calca, Cusco, Peru and IV in Vista Alegre; III in Cusco, Arequipa, San Luis, Lima and II in Santa Maria, Oxapampa, Huanta and in Iquique, Tarapaca, Chile.
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar noon following a strong M3.0
solar flare - the third M-class flare of the day and the second strongest
flare reported by EMSC in nearly a month (see discussion in the original
version of this summary below). This suggests that tidal and geomagnetic effects
were closely related to the timing of today's Peruvian earthquake.
Following is the preliminary data for today's M-class flares from SWPC:
XXXX 1600 1630 1700 M3.1 (August 20, 2026) 5.6E-02
Peru M 6.7 18:00 UT
XXXX 1132 1142 1200 M8.1 (August 20, 2026) 7.6E-02
Fiji M 4.8 12:27 UT
Chiapas M 4.2 12:20 UT
India M 2.8 12:05 UT
Flores M 3.7 11:45 UT
Greenland Sea M 3.8 11:12 UT
XXXX 0730 0800 0910 M2.0 (August 20, 2026) 4.1E-02
Flores Sea M 5.0, 4.8, 5.1 07:55, 08:00, 08:01 UT
The last earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter in central Peru
with M>=6.7 occurred as an M 7.2 on June 28, 2024 and prior to that on January 14, 2018 and August 24, 2014 - both with M 6.9-7.0.
The strongest earthquake in this area of Peru in the past century occurred
as an M 8.4 on June 23, 2001. A total eclipse of the sun occurred on June 21, 2001
and had been visible in this area of Peru. The coincidence with the solar
eclipse of this earthquake did not go unnoticed in this summary. For example
on August 12, 2026 this summary noted:
"Other examples of major earthquakes associated with total solar eclipses
in South America include an M 8.4 in Peru on June 23, 2001 following a
total eclipse in the same area on June 21, 2001. That earthquake was
described in this summary as:
The earthquake killed at least 75 including at least 26 by a tsunami. Nearly 18,000 homes were destroyed and more than 35,000 damaged in Arequipa, Camana and Tacna while injuring nearly 2700. Besides the 26 killed by the tsunami an additional 64 were missing. Many historic buildings were damaged or destroyed at Arequipa. Landslides blocked many highways. The earthquake followed by several days a total eclipse of the sun in the area. A tsunami was generated with maximum height to 7 meters and inundated up to 1 km inland." (August 12, 2026)
Today's earthquake in Peru was apparently triggered by energy from the revitalized
Hurricane Lala currently northwest of Hawaii at 23.8N 172W with winds
up to 120 kts as previously reported in the earlier version of this
summary:
"HURR LALA 2026-08-20 00:00 UT 23.1N 171.8W 115 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 115 kts (category 4-5 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity as well as continued elevated seismicity in the area of Hawaii." (August 20, 2026)
The epicenter of this event of M 6.7 in Central Peru is at 103 degrees
from the current eye of Hurricane Lala, as readers can verify. It is also
near the antipode of the M 6.9 in Sumatra of August 15. That event in
Sumatra was also at 103 degrees from the then-position of the eye of
Hurricane Lala as noted at the time in this summary as:
An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
...
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source." (August 15-16, 2026)
When a regional foreshock occurred earlier in the day this summary noted
in this regard (see also original below in this summary) :
"An earthquake of M 4.4 occurred in north-central Peru today. EMSC reported
this earthquake was felt strongly in Peru at Punta Hermosa, Santiago de Surco, San Francisco De Borja, San Isidro, La Molina, Vitarte, Santa Anita - Los Ficus, Independencia, Carmen De La Leguna Reynoso, and Ventanilla.
This event may be related to expected near-antipodal activity in Peru
following the M 6.9-7.0 in northern Sumatra of August 15, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"176-180 degrees: Off the coast of Peru, near Ecuador/Galapagos region
(3S 80W). Strong possibility of moderate or large event in Northern
Peru/Colombia or Ecuador near the antipode of today's earthquake within
the next 6 days." (August 16, 2026)
and
"Following the initial publication of this analyses two moderate earthquakes
occurred near the antipode of the Sumatra earthquake in the area of northern
Peru (M 4.6) and in Ecuador at 3S 80W (see above for forecast for these events).
Readers are encouraged to check these for antipodality with northern Sumatra" (August 16, 2026)
Other examples of eclipses and accompanying major earthquakes in Peru
have recently been cited in this summary. For example:
"Probably the most notable instance of antipodal relations between total
solar eclipses and great earthquakes occurred in mid-August, 1868. This
began with an M 8.5 in southern Peru on August 13, 1868 and continued
with an M 7.7 in Ecuador on August 16, 1868. The total solar eclipse
occurred on August 18, 1868 and lasted for a long 6 minutes maximum.
The earthquake was described in this summary as:
"This was one of the most widely investigated earthquakes in South America. Damage occurred throughout southern Peru and northern Chile from Guayaquil on the north to Valparaiso on the south. About 150 were killed in Moquequa alone and 3000 in the region of Arequipa but the total number of deaths ranged from several hundred to an estimated 40,000. Many of the dead were killed by the tsunami while seeking protection from the earthquake at sea walls. Arequipa, Moquegua, Mollendo, Ilo and Arica and other villages and towns in the area were largely destroyed. A tsunami was generated which was observed throughout the Pacific Ocean and did damage in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Hawaii, California and Japan. At Isla, Peru the sea withdrew suddenly and after a delay of 20 minutes in Arica the first wave reach with maximum height up to 17 meters. This tsunami destroyed what was left of Arica. The third or fourth wave was the highest and was described as a wall of water up to 45 feet high. This wave carried several ships as much as three miles inland where they lay for more than 50 years afterwards. A series of foreshocks preceded the earthquake. Cracks formed near Arica which were 5-8 cm wide and issued flows of mud, water and asphyxiating gasses. The air was charged with electricity such that sparks were observed when fingers were run through dry hair. Earthquake lights were observed throughout the Andes as moving balls of light. Waves could be seen passing over the surface of the earth." (August 13, 2025, August 10, 2026)
So stronger activity in Peru is possible at this time.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from the current location of the strong eye
of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 19AUG2026 10:28:05 12.3S 77.0W ML=4.4 NEIC CENTRAL PERU" (August 20, 2026)
As noted above this epicenter in Peru is at 103 degrees from the current
eye of Hurricane Lala and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
This type of triggering was discussed in detail in this summary on August 17, 2026
as:
"In the previous issue of this summary it was observed that:
"An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
This earthquake was located at a depth of 180 km and was widely, but weakly
felt at the surface. EMSC reported strong shaking in Indonesia at Sunggal and in Malaysia
at Klng, Shah Alam, Kampung Sungai Ara, Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Perai, Tanjung Tokong, and Permatang Kuching; in Lhoknga, Indonesia at Banda Aceh and in Thailant in Phuket and Thalang.
NEIC reported intensity IV in Sumatra at Gunung Stoli, Sibolga, Padang and III in Malaysia at Georgetown, Tanjong Tokong, Kuah, Bukit Baru, Juru Pulau and in Phangnga, Thailand
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source." (August 16, 2026)
It seems it is necessary to justify the final statement in this paragraph.
Lots of places in the world are at 103-104 degrees from the position in the north Pacific of Hurricane
Lala on August 15-16, 2026 so why is this particularly noteworthy? First 103-104 degrees
is a distance of particular interest because waves from disturbances on the earth's surface reflect and refract
off the core-mantle boundary and return to the surface en masse in this limited distance
range (also called the p- and s-wave shadow zone boundary. In many cases
significant seismicity then follows in this distance range from major
surficial disturbances (such as strong ocean storm, earthquakes, etc.).
Given that such triggering is possible and observed, it would not
be wise to ignore it in situations such as the occurrence of the M 6.9 in
Sumatra coincident with the landfall of Hurricane Lala in Hawaii. But there
is more to this story. One might ask why the larger M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia
a day earlier was not also similarly triggered. In the view of this summary
it was!! At the time of these major earthquakes there were two strong
Tropical Cyclones in the North Pacific - the above mentioned Hurricane Lala
and a Tropical Storm - Hernan to the east of Lala. Data from this summary
on the locations of these two storms on August 14-15, 2026 as published
at the time follow:
"TS HERNAN 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 15.8N 135.4W 35 kts North Pacific east of Hawaii
TS Hernan (TD 08E) continued today in the Northern Pacific east of Hawaii with winds up to 35 kts. It will track to the west and is expected to dissipate in the North Pacific today before ito reaches Hawaii. No seismic enhancement in the North Pacific or at the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is expected at this time." (August 15, 2026)
"TS LALA 2026-08-15 00:00 UT 17.2N 153.0W 70 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. It will track to the northwest and is expected to reach Hawaii as a Hurricane around August 15-16. A moderate earthquake could occur near the time of landfall of this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 14-15, 2026)
"HURR LALA 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 19.1N 156.5W 80 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific over Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. It is making landfall in Hawaii at the time of this writing. Extensive flooding is expected. A moderate earthquake could occur near Hawaii in the next several days. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 16, 2026)
The M 7.7 in the Flores area of Indonesia was located at 104 degrees from
the eye of TS Hernan at the time of its occurrence. At the same time it was at the
fourth node (90 degrees) from the eye and landfall of Hurricane Lala. This is difficult to reconcile
with a shrug and the word "coincidence" and thus the aforementioned statement.
Readers are welcome to test these distance relations with the recognized
locations of the mainshocks in Sumatra and Flores, Indonesia.
O: 14AUG2026 21:58:24 8.4S 121.4E MW=7.7 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 10:54:53 3.0N 99.0E MW=6.9 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA " (August 17, 2026)
O: 20AUG2026 18:00:16 14.6S 73.6W ML=6.7 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
The most unusual earthquake of the day was an M 4.4 in Northern Norway. NEIC reported it was
felt in Nordland, Norway with intensity V in Sorarnoy; IV in Ornes, Lopsmarka and III in Bodo, Reine and Loding.
EMSC reported strong shaking in northern Norway at Vagaholmen, Ornes, Husoya, Moldjord, Bodo, Lopsmarka, Nesna, Mo i Rana, Hauknes, Korgen, Sandnessjoen, Rognan, Fauske, Mosjoen, Straumen, Gladstad, Tofors, Ginnasluota, Beisfjord, Trondheim and as far as Tuolluvaara, Sweden 300 km from the epicenter.
This is the strongest earthquake in northern Norway within about 200 km of this
epicenter since an M 4.6 on November 8, 2023. Other similar events in the
past 35 years in the area occurred on January 4 and 10, 1992 and December 20, 1997,
At the time of the November, 2023 event this summary noted:
"An unusual earthquake of M 4.5 hit northern Norway today. EMSC reported it was felt with light to moderate intensity in Norway at Meloy, Glomfjord,eipa, Mo i Rana, Nesna, Bodo, Vefsn.
This is the strongest earthquake in Northern Norway within about 250 km of this
epicenter since an M 4.7 on December 20, 1997. No earthquakes of larger magnitude
have occurred in this area in the past 30 years. A series of events in January, 1992 about 100 km northeast
of today's epicenter in Northern Norway occurred with M 4.6, 4.6 and 4.8.
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal stresses." (November 8, 2023)
Today's earthquake occurred at the start of a moderate geomagnetic storm
and may have been promoted by the shock wave from that storm at high latitudes
(see above). The high latitude Kp was the most disturbed at 7 today since
June 5, 2026. The solar eclipse of August 12, 2026 was visible at this epicenter
and tidal stresses could have helped promote this earthquake at this time.
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from the M 7.7 in the Flores Sea and was
likely promoted by energy from that source.
O: 19AUG2026 21:06:49 66.9N 13.2E ML=4.4 NEIC NORTHERN NORWAY
An earthquake of M 4.4 occurred in north-central Peru today. NEIC reported it was felt near the coast of Peru at Lima and San Luis with intensity III. EMSC reported
this earthquake was felt strongly in Peru at Punta Hermosa, Santiago de Surco, San Francisco De Borja, San Isidro, La Molina, Vitarte, Santa Anita - Los Ficus, Independencia, Carmen De La Leguna Reynoso, and Ventanilla.
This event may be related to expected near-antipodal activity in Peru
following the M 6.9-7.0 in northern Sumatra of August 15, 2026. At the time
this summary noted:
"176-180 degrees: Off the coast of Peru, near Ecuador/Galapagos region
(3S 80W). Strong possibility of moderate or large event in Northern
Peru/Colombia or Ecuador near the antipode of today's earthquake within
the next 6 days." (August 16, 2026)
and
"Following the initial publication of this analyses two moderate earthquakes
occurred near the antipode of the Sumatra earthquake in the area of northern
Peru (M 4.6) and in Ecuador at 3S 80W (see above for forecast for these events).
Readers are encouraged to check these for antipodality with northern Sumatra" (August 16, 2026)
The relation between total solar eclipses and earthquakes in Central Peru
had also been examined in this summary on August 10, 2026 in a historical context
at the time as:
"Probably the most notable instance of antipodal relations between total
solar eclipses and great earthquakes occurred in mid-August, 1868. This
began with an M 8.5 in southern Peru on August 13, 1868 and continued
with an M 7.7 in Ecuador on August 16, 1868. The total solar eclipse
occurred on August 18, 1868 and lasted for a long 6 minutes maximum.
The earthquake was described in this summary as:
"This was one of the most widely investigated earthquakes in South America. Damage occurred throughout southern Peru and northern Chile from Guayaquil on the north to Valparaiso on the south. About 150 were killed in Moquequa alone and 3000 in the region of Arequipa but the total number of deaths ranged from several hundred to an estimated 40,000. Many of the dead were killed by the tsunami while seeking protection from the earthquake at sea walls. Arequipa, Moquegua, Mollendo, Ilo and Arica and other villages and towns in the area were largely destroyed. A tsunami was generated which was observed throughout the Pacific Ocean and did damage in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Hawaii, California and Japan. At Isla, Peru the sea withdrew suddenly and after a delay of 20 minutes in Arica the first wave reach with maximum height up to 17 meters. This tsunami destroyed what was left of Arica. The third or fourth wave was the highest and was described as a wall of water up to 45 feet high. This wave carried several ships as much as three miles inland where they lay for more than 50 years afterwards. A series of foreshocks preceded the earthquake. Cracks formed near Arica which were 5-8 cm wide and issued flows of mud, water and asphyxiating gasses. The air was charged with electricity such that sparks were observed when fingers were run through dry hair. Earthquake lights were observed throughout the Andes as moving balls of light. Waves could be seen passing over the surface of the earth." (August 13, 2025, August 10, 2026)
So stronger activity in Peru is possible at this time.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from the current location of the strong eye
of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 19AUG2026 10:28:05 12.3S 77.0W ML=4.4 NEIC CENTRAL PERU
A geomagnetic storm was continuing when an M 3.5 earthquake struck southern
California. That earthquake was reported by NEIC to have been felt east of Los Angeles, California
with intensity III in Warner Springs, San Jacinto, Anza, Valley Center, Murrieta, Menifee, Moreno Valley, Santa Ysabel, Cathedral City and Sun City.
EMSC reported moderate noise and shaking in southern California at Aguanga, Valley Center, Valle Vista, Rancho Mirage, Hemet, San Jacinto, Menifee, Sunnyslope, Encino.
The last earthquake within about 50 km of this epicenter with M>=3.5
occurred as an M 3.8 and M 3.5 on November 28, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"NEIC reported a series of earthquakes also occurred east of Los Angeles, California today including an M 3.8 and 3.6. NEIC reported these were felt with intensity IV in Sun City; III in Idyllwild, Rancho Mirage, Mountain Center, Banning, Thousand Palms, El Cajon, Hemet, among others.
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and 103 degrees
from the Drake Passage and may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (November 28, 2025)
This event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
Today's epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia and
at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kyushu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19AUG2026 07:31:35 33.4N 116.7W ML=3.5 NEIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19AUG2026 07:31:35 33.4N 116.7W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19AUG2026 08:26:22 33.2N 116.0W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
The Flores area of Indonesia saw a temporary increase in overall seismicity today the the
eruption of Mount Lewotobi, Laki-Laki nearby (see below).
Several moderate aftershocks in Flores continued to be felt. The strongest aftershocks
in the Flores Sea area in the past 24 hours were of M 5.7 and M 5.8. It occurred near local
solar noon and may have been promoted by energy from tides or geomagnetic
effects. NEIC reported these aftershocks were being felt with light intensity
in Ruteng Nusa Tenggara, Timur, with EMSC reporting level IV in Labuan Bajo and Banjar Pasekan, Indonesia.
This increased seismicity in the Flores aftershock zone may be related
to the current location of the eye of Hurricane Lala in the north Pacific.
The distance from Lala to Flores today was at the fifth node (72 degrees)
and seismic promotion is common between strong events at this distance.
O: 20AUG2026 09:30:52 8.2S 120.6E ML=5.3 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 02:46:57 8.4S 120.6E ML=5.7 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 22:45:17 8.4S 120.5E ML=5.8 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 16:17:38 8.2S 120.7E ML=5.5 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 03:13:29 8.3S 121.4E ML=5.2 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
Following is a listing of events in the Flores aftershock sequence of M>=4
which have occurred since the last issue of this summary:
O: 19AUG2026 09:03:45 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 19AUG2026 12:21:28 7.9S 120.8E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 20AUG2026 05:09:01 7.9S 120.4E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 20AUG2026 04:33:23 8.0S 120.4E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 19AUG2026 14:30:59 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 14:47:17 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 21:08:38 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 22:44:11 8.1S 120.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 07:50:30 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 08:53:58 8.1S 120.7E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 06:57:39 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 16:17:39 8.2S 120.6E Mw=5.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 16:36:19 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 18:34:16 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 19:07:38 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 19:11:18 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 21:35:34 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 22:29:22 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 00:24:03 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 02:26:12 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 02:59:50 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 03:36:45 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 04:38:03 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 06:07:31 8.2S 120.7E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 08:01:33 8.2S 120.5E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 15:19:45 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 16:34:45 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 22:28:08 8.3S 120.6E mb=5.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 22:45:18 8.3S 120.6E Mw=5.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 22:55:49 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 23:10:17 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 23:20:14 8.3S 120.7E mb=4.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 00:41:33 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 02:47:00 8.3S 120.6E Mw=5.7 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 02:55:27 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 03:00:57 8.3S 120.7E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 03:37:59 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 04:43:27 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 07:55:03 8.3S 120.4E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 08:00:33 8.3S 120.6E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 09:30:55 8.3S 120.6E mb=5.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 08:40:31 8.4S 121.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 04:23:57 8.4S 120.4E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 20AUG2026 04:57:15 8.4S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
Three volcanoes erupted in quick succession in Central Indonesia today. These
included three eruptions of Mount Ibu with an ash cloud up to half a km in height;
and volcanic eruptions in East Java near Mount Semeru and at Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki
which have been placed on alert level III by local authorities. -
Lewotobi is located near the M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia and may have been
triggered by the M 7.7 earthquake west of it (at 8.5S 122.75E)
Near Node 5 (72 degrees) from Hurricane Lala.
Mount Semeru is located south of Java at 8S 112.9E - near the antipode
of recent strong earthquakes in Venezuela and Colombia.
Mount Ibu is located at 1.5N 127.6E near the M 7.4 in Sulawesi of April 1, 2026.
At Node 6 (60 degrees) from Hurricane Lala.
These eruptions may be triggered events.
The following aftershocks of M>=4 occurred today in Chiapas, Mexico.
Like Flores, Chiapas Mexico is currently at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Hurricane Lala.
O: 19AUG2026 10:33:01 14.0N 93.5W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 19AUG2026 17:51:36 14.0N 93.2W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 19AUG2026 19:44:44 14.0N 93.3W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 19AUG2026 09:04:04 14.1N 93.2W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 19AUG2026 18:56:09 14.1N 93.3W ML=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 19AUG2026 20:27:59 14.1N 93.3W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 20AUG2026 05:34:00 14.1N 92.6W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 20AUG2026 06:25:37 14.1N 93.3W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines in Klinan, Buayan, Barra and Padala.
O: 19AUG2026 11:01:37 5.4N 125.3E ML=4.8 NEIC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 19AUG2026 11:01:37 5.4N 125.3E MB=4.8 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 19AUG2026 17:19:34 5.9N 126.7E mb=4.8 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
A series of moderate aftershocks following an M 4.7, 4.6 and M 4.9 earlier in the week continued today in the area of Granada, Spain.
Readers can find more details in previous issues of this summary. This
epicenter saw near totality of the sun at the end of the eclipse of August 12, 2026.
Tidal stresses with that alignment may have set this sequence in motion.
Smaller aftershocks continued to be felt lightly throughout the day including
These include the strongest event in the region today - an M 3.4 and an M 2.2 quake that occurred within minutes of local solar
midnight that were felt strongly in Spain at Dillar, Gojar, Zubia, Ogijares, Alhendin, Monachil, Churriana de la Vega, Las Gabias, Huetor Vega, Granada, Maracena, Jun, Albolote, and Malaga for the M 3.4 and in Armilla, Cajar, Granada, and strongly at Viznar for the M 2.2.
These epicenters are at the third node (120 degrees) from Hurricane Lala
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 20AUG2026 00:28:24 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
O: 20AUG2026 00:15:24 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.4 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 17:14:50 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 14:55:32 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 12:06:38 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 10:32:54 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.8 EMSC SPAIN
The following earthquakes of M>=2 were recorded in the Granada aftershock zone today.
O: 20AUG2026 04:28:17 37.5N 3.7W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 08:03:22 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.3 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 10:32:54 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.8 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 12:06:38 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 14:55:34 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 20:11:16 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 21:10:12 37.1N 3.7W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 20AUG2026 00:15:29 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.4 EMSC SPAIN
O: 20AUG2026 00:28:24 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 17:14:50 37.2N 3.6W ML=3.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 07:01:58 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Kentucky was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kentucky with III in La Center, West Paducah, Paducah, Ledbetter, Wickliffe, Kevil and II in Indiana at Paoli, Greenville, Newburgh, Evansville. It was also felt lightly in Missouri at Caruthersville and Saint Louis; in Tennessee at Signal Mountain and in Metropolis, Illinois.
Like earthquakes today in Flores and Chiapas, Mexico (see discussion above) this epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the current eye of Hurricane Lala.
O: 20AUG2026 04:35:16 37.1N 88.8W ML=2.5 EMSC WESTERN KENTUCKY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Antofagasta, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Antofagasta, Chile in Calama and Antofagasta.
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 20AUG2026 04:52:52 24.3S 70.4W ML=4.7 EMSC ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Coquimbo, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Coquimbo, Chile.
O: 19AUG2026 17:25:05 29.8S 71.2W ML=4.2 EMSC COQUIMBO, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-20 00:00 UT 23.1N 171.8W 115 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 115 kts (category 4-5 hurricane). Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to continue in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity as well as continued elevated seismicity in the area of Hawaii.
TROPICAL STORM SAUDEL (DEPRESSION 17W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS SAUDEL 2026-08-20 00:00 UT 11.3N 150.9E 45 kts Northern Pacific
Tropical Storm Saudel (Tropical depression 17W) continued in the area of the North Pacific east of
Yap, Caroline Islands and Guam today with winds up to 45 kts. The area it is currently in is not
seismic but it is expected to track to the north and west over the next few days and to reach
Guam and Micornesia in the next two days, possibly promoting a moderate to
strong earthquake in that region near the time of landfall in Guam. It will then proceed to the Volcano Islands and Bonin Islands of Japan as a typhoon with winds up to
150 kts around August 23-24. Some seismic enhancement is likely
in these islands at that time. Current position at 11N 150E is not a seismic area.
The antipode at 11S 30W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 1600 1630 1700 M3.1 (August 20, 2026) 5.6E-02
Peru M 6.7 18:00 UT
XXXX 1132 1142 1200 M8.1 (August 20, 2026) 7.6E-02
Fiji M 4.8 12:27 UT
Chiapas M 4.2 12:20 UT
India M 2.8 12:05 UT
Flores M 3.7 11:45 UT
Greenland Sea M 3.8 11:12 UT
XXXX 0730 0800 0910 M2.0 (August 20, 2026) 4.1E-02
Flores Sea M 5.0, 4.8, 5.1 07:55, 08:00, 08:01 UT
4690 0006 0037 0112 C3.9 (August 19, 2026) 1.1E-02
Flores M 4.8 00:11 UT
Kamchatka M 4.4 00:06 UT
4700 0227 0231 0233 C2.0 (August 19, 2026) 9.1E-04
Spain M 2.3 02:29 UT
Kamchatka M 4.0 02:29 UT
Alaska Peninsula M 3.6 02:32 UT
4710 0251 0256 0258 C3.9 (August 19, 2026) 1.3E-03
British Columbia M 2.8 02:57 UT
4730 0330 0346 0401 C3.0 (August 19, 2026) 4.8E-03
Spain M 2.5 03:43 UT
Flores M 4.1 04:00 UT
4740 0445 0454 0503 C5.0 (August 19, 2026) 4.4E-03
Antofagasta M 4.6 04:51 UT
Flores M 4.4 04:57 UT
4750 0631 0636 0650 C1.3 (August 19, 2026) 1.5E-03
Mindanao M 4.4 06:30 UT
4760 0830 0844 0901 C2.7 (August 19, 2026) 4.3E-03
Tajikistan M 4.1 08:34 UT
Flores M 4.4 08:40 UT
4790 1101 1105 1111 C1.3 (August 19, 2026) 8.5E-04
Mindanao M 4.8 11:01 UT
4800 1129 1136 1141 C1.5 (August 19, 2026) 1.1E-03
Ryukyu Is. M 4.4 11:43 UT
4810 1228 1231 1235 C1.3 (August 19, 2026) 6.2E-04
4820 1327 1339 1346 C4.9 (August 19, 2026) 3.3E-03
4830 1402 1407 1409 C3.6 (August 19, 2026) 1.4E-03
Western Turkey M 2.6 14:03 UT
Xizang M 3.5 14:03 UT
4840 1509 1517 1519 C5.7 (August 19, 2026) 2.1E-03
Flores M 4.3 15:19 UT
Mongolia M 3.7 15:13 UT
4850 1633 1638 1642 C3.4 (August 19, 2026) 1.7E-03
Flores M 4.1, M 4.3 16:34 UT
4860 1712 1717 1720 C2.4 (August 19, 2026) 1.2E-03
Spain M 3.0 17:14 UT
Mindanao M 4.8 17:19 UT
4870 1824 1851 1910 M1.0 (August 19, 2026) 1.9E-02
Southern Alaska M 3.3 18:25 UT
Flores M 4.1 18:34 UT
Fiji M 5.4 18:45 UT
Chiapas M 4.4 18:56 UT
Kyrgyzstan M 4.2 19:08 UT
4900 2151 2200 2206 C1.7 (August 19, 2026) 1.5E-03
Northern California M 2.0 21:55 UT
Spain M 1.5 22:06 UT
4930 2346 2354 0004 C2.0 (August 19, 2026) 1.9E-03
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active August 20-22. Solar M-flare chance: 35% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 20, high: 37, mid-latitude: 15, time of max k: 10:00-12:00 UT; Max k: 7 Global Kp 5.00 0300-0600, August 19; Sunspot Number: 78; Radio Flux: 126 August 19, 2026.
A moderate M2.0 solar flare occurred around 08:00 UT on August 20. This
flare appears to be the strongest observed since July 30, 2026 (#770 M1.9).
A C8.2 flare occurred on August 16, 2026 (#4260 C8.2). Today's flare was
accompanied by a series of moderate earthquakes of M 5.0, 4.8 and 5.1
in the area of the Flores Sea, Indonesia..
High latitude Kp reached a value of 7 around 1000-1200 UT on August 19.
This is the strongest disturbance in the high latitude geomagnetic field
neasured since it also reached 7 on August 2. The high laitude A value for the day
of 37 was the highest in the past month. The last time it exceeded this
value was on June 5, 2026 when it reach 41 during a moderate geomagnetic storm.
Hp30 (GFZ) levels reached 4.0 at 22:30-23:00 UT on August 19, a minor
geomagnetic storm level.
August 19, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate G1 to G2 geomagnetic storm occurred on August 18 with the peak
of the storm occurring about 19:45 UT. GFZ reported the the Hp30 index reached
6.33 in a sudden commencement storm at this time. One of the strongest
earthquakes of the day - an M 5.3 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan coicided with
the beginning of this geomagnetic storm, the strongest in the past two weeks.
NEIC reported this earthquake in Afghanistan was felt with intensity III in Kabul, Afghanistan and Swabi, Pakistan.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Afghanistan at Pul-e Khumri, Jalalabad, Kabul, and in Pakistan at Ashanagro, Abbottabad, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and in Uzbekistan at Tashkent.
The earthquake in Afghanistan also coincided with the beginning of the
second largest solar flare of the day and occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight. Preliminary data for this flare from SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4650 1951 1956 1959 C2.0 (August 18, 2026) 1.0E-03
Hindu Kush Afghanistan M 5.3 19:51 UT
Nepal M 4.0 19:58 UT
This epicenter was at 102 degrees from the eye of Hurricane Lala at the time it occurred
and may have been promoted by energy from that source. An event in western Afghanistan
at the same distance from Hurricane Lala today was reported by EMSC to have
been felt in Afghanistan at Herat, Injil, Chahar Burj.
O: 18AUG2026 19:51:09 36.5N 70.7E MW=5.3 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
O: 18AUG2026 19:51:09 36.6N 70.8E ML=5.3 NEIC HINDU KUSH, AFGHANISTAN
O: 18AUG2026 18:51:12 34.6N 62.1E ML=4.4 NEIC WESTERN AFGHANISTAN
A second milder geomagnetic storm occurred peaking at 0530-0600
UT on August 19, 2026 with Hp30 of 5.666.
This geomagnetic storm was continuing when an M 3.5 earthquake struck southern
California. That earthquake was reported by NEIC to have been felt east of Los Angeles, California
with intensity III in Warner Springs, San Jacinto, Anza, Valley Center, Murrieta, Menifee, Moreno Valley, Santa Ysabel, Cathedral City and Sun City.
EMSC reported moderate noise and shaking in southern California at Aguanga, Valley Center, Valle Vista, Rancho Mirage, Hemet, San Jacinto, Menifee, Sunnyslope, Encino.
The last earthquake within about 50 km of this epicenter with M>=3.5
occurred as an M 3.8 and M 3.5 on November 28, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"NEIC reported a series of earthquakes also occurred east of Los Angeles, California today including an M 3.8 and 3.6. NEIC reported these were felt with intensity IV in Sun City; III in Idyllwild, Rancho Mirage, Mountain Center, Banning, Thousand Palms, El Cajon, Hemet, among others.
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and 103 degrees
from the Drake Passage and may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (November 28, 2025)
This event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
Today's epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia and
at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kyushu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19AUG2026 07:31:35 33.4N 116.7W ML=3.5 NEIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19AUG2026 07:31:35 33.4N 116.7W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19AUG2026 08:26:22 33.2N 116.0W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 18AUG2026 20:25:38 33.3N 115.5W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.9 in Qinghai, China near Yanglong. NEIC reported it was probably felt with intensit yp to VII in the area of Yanglong.
An aftershock of M 4.7 occurred within minutes of local solar noon.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an
M 6.3 on June 16, 2026 and is probably an aftershock of that event. At the
time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.3 followed the event in Sulawesi, Indonesia in the
area of northern China in Qinghai. It was followed by a series of moderate
aftershocks including those of M 5.2, 5.4, 4.7 and 5.0. Chinese Press reported damage and at least one
death attributed to the earthquake. Videos appeared on the web. NEIC expected major regional damage but at this writing
have not provided specifics. The last earthquake within about 200 km of this
epicenter in Qinghai, China with M>=6.3 occurred on August 28, 2009 with
similar events on November 10, 2008 and April 17, 2003 of M 6.3-6.4. No
other such events have hit the area in the past 35 years.
At the time of the event in 2008 this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 6.5 hit northern Qinghai, China on the morning of November
10. This continues the pattern of strong earthquakes around China associated
with strong storms hitting southeast Asia. The current storm Maysak has lingered
off the coast of Vietnam and China for about four days now and has induced
stresses on the Asian Plate which probably promoted the movement along faults
in China. This happened in the cases of the typhoon which preceded the great
Sichuan, China earthquake of May 12, 2008 (M 7.9) and again on August 25 in
Xizang, China (M 6.5). NEIC reported that today's earthquake was felt
as far as Xining, China more than 500 km from the epicenter with intensity III.
The quake was also felt in Golmud, the second largest city
in the province as well at Da Qaidam town. More than 180 people were sent
to investigate but there were no immediate reports of damage. Reports from
hotels in Golmud indicated the quake was not major enough to cause damage in
that city. Initial reports of damage indicated the quake toppled several
ramshackle huts in Da Qaidam district and other mud houses had cracks on their
walls. School was cancelled following the quake whose epicenter is in a
coal mining area. Many people ran from their buildings in panic in Golmud.
We will provide more details in later summaries. Data for this region of
China is often delay due to the remote nature of the area. Data and analyses
of this earthquake and other events which occurred today follow." (November 10, 2008)
and in 2003 it was noted:
"A strong earthquake occurred in central China in the Qinghai province on the
morning of April 17. This earthquake of M 6.3 is the strongest in within
250 km of this epicenter since April 19, 1963 when an M 7.0 occurred in the
general area. It may represent a stress redistribution in the area after an
M 8.0 about 400 km to the west which occurred on Nov. 14, 2001. Some damage
is expected, however this event occurred in a relatively unpopulated region
and damage and casualties may not be heavy based on the damage reported from
previous events in this area." (April 17, 2003, June 16, 2026)
Today's epicenter in Qinghai, China is at the seventh node (51.4 degrees) from the M 7.7 in
Flores, Indonesia and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
It was also probably promoted by the moderate geomagnetic storm when it
occurred (see above). This epicenter was near local solar midnight
when that storm commenced. The commencement of that storm was probably
marked by a strong geomanetic excursion recorded on the GOES-18 magnetometer as
occurring about 17:25 UT when this epicenter was within minutes of local
solar midnight. An arcjec maneuver returned GOES 18 to an expected orbit.
O: 18AUG2026 21:36:28 37.8N 95.6E ML=5.9 NEIC QINGHAI, CHINA
O: 18AUG2026 21:36:29 37.9N 95.5E MB=5.9 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
O: 18AUG2026 21:59:57 37.9N 95.4E mb=4.5 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
O: 19AUG2026 05:22:24 37.9N 95.5E mb=4.7 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
O: 19AUG2026 05:22:24 37.9N 95.5W ML=4.7 NEIC QINGHAI, CHINA
The earthquake of M 5.7 occurred today in Chiapas, Mexico. It may have been
felt lightly in this epicentral area near Puerto Madero, Nexico. This is the strongest aftershock zone of the M 7.3 of July 17, 2026 in
Chiapas since an M 5.9 on July 28, 2026. Today's event was probably triggered
by the moderate geomagnetic storm (the strongest in the past 10 days) which peaked within minutes of this earthquake.
Today's events in Chiapas, Mexico occurred at 145 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and was likely promoted
by energy from that source.
Following is a list of earthquakes in the Chiapas region of Mexico with M>=4
which have occurred since the last issue of this summary 24 hour ago.
O: 18AUG2026 21:18:06 14.0N 93.2W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 07:08:31 14.2N 93.3W ML=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 22:49:11 14.2N 93.1W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 22:58:53 15.3N 93.3W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
The Flores area of Indonesia saw a decline in overall seismicity today.
Several moderate aftershocks continued to be felt. The strongest aftershocks
in the Flores Sea area in the past 24 hours were of M 5.2. It occurred near local
solar noon and may have been promoted by energy from tides or geomagnetic
effects.
O: 19AUG2026 03:13:29 8.3S 121.4E ML=5.2 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
Following is a listing of events in the Flores aftershock sequence of M>=4
which have occurred since the last issue of this summary:
O: 18AUG2026 11:06:53 7.8S 120.5E MB=4.7 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 09:01:39 7.9S 120.5E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 12:03:50 7.9S 120.6E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 13:57:30 7.9S 121.1E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 18:06:51 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 12:00:12 8.0S 120.6E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 21:10:56 8.0S 120.7E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 13:55:26 8.1S 121.3E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 14:50:25 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 18:15:53 8.1S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 01:44:50 8.1S 121.2E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 21:11:40 8.2S 121.4E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 22:26:51 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 04:00:27 8.2S 120.3E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 05:02:07 8.2S 121.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 06:57:39 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 18:29:48 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 19:03:08 8.3S 121.3E Mw=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 20:15:45 8.3S 121.3E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 20:31:42 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 21:13:10 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 23:39:24 8.3S 121.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 23:59:16 8.3S 121.3E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 00:11:39 8.3S 121.4E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 03:13:27 8.3S 121.5E mb=5.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 03:15:29 8.3S 121.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 20:28:57 8.4S 121.4E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 03:12:21 8.4S 121.4E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 19AUG2026 08:40:31 8.4S 121.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
A series of moderate aftershocks including an M 4.7, 4.6 and M 4.9 continued today in the area of Granada, Spain.
NEIC reported the M 4.9 was felt with intensity IV in Granada at Albolote, V in Maracena, Pulianas; IV in Granada, Otura, and III in Agron, Baza and Roquetas de Mar, Almeria and in Malaga.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Spain in Cullar-Vega, Armilla, Zubia, Huetor Vega, Granada, Cajar, Santafe, Monachil, Padul, Maracena, Jun, Cenes de la Vega, Atarfe, Albolote, Dudar, Guejar-Sierra, Orgiva, and others. A loud rumble accompanied the quakes.
NEIC reported the M 4.7 was felt with intensity II in Agron, Granada, Spain.
Readers can find more details in previous issues of this summary. This
epicenter saw near totality of the sun at the end of the eclipse of August 12, 2026.
Tidal stresses with that alignment may have set this sequence in motion.
Smaller aftershocks continued to be felt lightly throughout the day including
an M 3.6 which EMSC reported was lightly felt in Spain at Gojar, Armilla, Zubia, Churriana de la Vega, Huetor Vega, Las Gabias, Granada, Maracena, Albolote, Guevejar.
O: 18AUG2026 09:34:35 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.6 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 10:39:43 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 10:39:43 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.7 NEIC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:37:45 37.1N 3.7W Mw=4.8 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:37:45 37.1N 3.7W Mw=4.8 NEIC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:53:09 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 20:35:38 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.6 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:37:44 37.1N 3.6W MW=4.9 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:41:37 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:43:40 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.8 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:47:25 37.1N 3.7W ML=2.6 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 09:18:48 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 09:34:35 37.1N 3.6W mb=4.6 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 09:40:59 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 10:39:43 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 20:35:38 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.4 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 02:07:51 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 02:29:13 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.3 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 03:43:30 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.5 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 07:01:58 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 19AUG2026 08:03:22 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.3 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:53:07 37.2N 3.6W ML=3.6 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:57:35 37.2N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in British Columbia, Canada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of British Columbia, Canada in Pinticton, Summerland, Osoyoos, Oliver and Kelowna and in Oroville, Washington.
O: 19AUG2026 06:17:50 49.3N 119.3W ML=3.1 NEIC BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
O: 19AUG2026 06:17:50 49.3N 119.3W ML=3.1 EMSC BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
O: 18AUG2026 23:34:58 48.8N 119.5W ML=2.2 EMSC WASHINGTON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Himachal Pradesh, India was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of India near Kyelang and Dharamsala.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Flores and at the 10th node (36 degrees) from Sumatra
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
An earthquake later in the day of M 4.2 occurred in Gujarat, India. This
epicenter is at 104 degrees from the current eye of Hurricane Lala and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 18AUG2026 14:10:03 32.5N 76.6E ML=4.3 NEIC PENINSULAR INDIA
O: 18AUG2026 14:10:03 32.5N 76.5E MB=4.3 EMSC HIMACHAL PRADESH, INDIA
O: 19AUG2026 03:16:06 21.9N 73,1E ML=4.2 NEIC GUJARAT, INDIA
O: 19AUG2026 03:16:06 21.9N 73.1E ML=4.2 EMSC GUJARAT, INDIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Tonga may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Houma, Tonga.
This event occurred within a couple of minutes of local solar noon and
may have been promoted by energy from tidal or geomagnetic effects.
O: 18AUG2026 23:53:51 20.1S 177.8W ML=4.2 NEIC TONGA
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 Simi Valley.
O: 18AUG2026 13:12:45 33.8N 119.2W ML=2.7 NEIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Malta was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Malta in Mellieha.
O: 18AUG2026 18:21:48 35.8N 12.5E ML=4.1 EMSC CENTRAL MEDITERRANEAN SEA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-19 00:00 UT 20.5N 168.5W 125 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 125 kts and is expected to become a major hurricane later on August 19 reaching gusts to 140 kts. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to intensity in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity as well as continued elevated seismicity in the area of Hawaii.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 17W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 17W 2026-08-19 00:00 UT 8.0N 154.2E 40 kts Northern Pacific
Tropical depression 17W formed in the area of the North Pacific east of
Yap, Caroline Islands and Guam today with winds up to 40 kts. The area it is currently in is not
seismic but it is expected to track to the north and west over the next few days and to reach
the Volcano Islands and Bonin Islands of Japan asa typhoon with winds up to
150 kts around August 23-24. Some seismic enhancement is likely
in these islands at that time. Current position at 8N 154E is not a seismic area.
The antipode at 8S 26W is near the Southern mid-Atlantic Ridge and some
moderate seismic enhancement may occur in that area in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 18, 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)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4570 0615 0643 0720 C3.9 (August 18, 2026) 9.4E-04 *
Chiapas M 4.1 06:18 UT M 4.4 07:08 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 06:45 UT
Sumatra M 5.6 06:02 UT
4580 0700 0707 0712 C1.7 (August 18, 2026) 1.3E-03
Chiapas M 4.4 07:08 UT
4650 1951 1956 1959 C2.0 (August 18, 2026) 1.0E-03
Hindu Kush Afghanistan M 5.3 19:51 UT
Nepal M 4.0 19:58 UT
4670 2238 2243 2246 C2.3 (August 18, 2026) 1.1E-03
Xinjiang M 4.2 22:53 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 22:49 UT
4680 2328 2340 2351 C2.8 (August 18, 2026) 3.2E-03
Flores M 4.1 23:39 UT
Fiji M 4.2 23:54 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active August 20-21 minor storms August 19. Solar M-flare chance: 35% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 25, high: 31, mid-latitude: 20, time of max k: 03:00-06:00 UT; Max k: 6 Global Kp 5.33 2000-2200, August 18; Sunspot Number: 71; Radio Flux: 125 August 18, 2026.
A moderate G1 to G2 geomagnetic storm occurred on August 18 with the peak
of the storm occurring abou 19:45 UT. GFZ reported the the Hp30 index reached
6.33 in a sudden commencement storm at this time. One of the strongest
earthquakes of the day - an M 5.3 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan coicided with
the beginning of this geomagnetic storm, the strongest in the past two weeks.
The earthquake in Afghanistan also coincided with the beginning of the
second largest solar flare of the day and occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight. Preliminary data for this flare from SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4650 1951 1956 1959 C2.0 (August 18, 2026) 1.0E-03
Hindu Kush Afghanistan M 5.3 19:51 UT
Nepal M 4.0 19:58 UT
August 18, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong spike in the intensity of the geomagnetic field was registered on GOES 18 and 19 magnetometers
on August 18 starting at about 04:30 UT and peaking at about 05:05 UT. This is
the strongest geomagnetic storm since August 8 when planetary Kp reached 5.67. A smaller
but similar excursion was recorded beginning at 01:45 and peaking at 02:35 UT on August 18.
These were accompanied by a geomagnetic storm which reached Kp 6 at high latitudes
and was recorded with Hp30 as maximizing around 05:00-05:30 UT with Hp30 (GFZ)
index of 5.0. A smaller storm on August 17 occurred starting around
20:30 UT with Hp30 index of 4.667. This strong geomagnetic signal was
accompanied by the strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.7 in the Chiapas
aftershock zone at 05:02 UT and which occurred near local solar midnight and was probably
promoted by these geomagnetic stresses.
The earthquake of M 5.7 occurred today in Chiapas, Mexico. It may have been
felt lightly in this epicentral area near Puerto Madero, Nexico. This is the strongest aftershock zone of the M 7.3 of July 17, 2026 in
Chiapas since an M 5.9 on July 28, 2026. Today's event was probably triggered
by the moderate geomagnetic storm (the strongest in the past 10 days) which peaked within minutes of this earthquake.
Today's events in Chiapas, Mexico occurred at 145 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and was likely promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 18AUG2026 05:02:32 14.2N 93.2W Mw=5.7 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
Following is a list of earthquakes in the Chiapas region of Mexico with M>=4
which have occurred since the last issue of this summary 24 hour ago.
O: 17AUG2026 11:13:06 13.9N 93.0W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 14:57:58 16.9N 94.0W ML=4.0 EMSC OAXACA, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 19:16:05 17.6N 94.6W ML=4.0 EMSC VERACRUZ, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 18:33:00 14.0N 93.1W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 05:05:32 14.0N 93.4W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 05:11:44 14.0N 93.3W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 05:42:24 14.0N 92.1W ML=4.2 EMSC OFFSHORE GUATEMALA
O: 17AUG2026 08:50:51 14.1N 93.4W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 10:30:43 14.1N 93.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 20:37:25 14.1N 93.1W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 05:25:02 14.1N 93.4W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 06:18:16 14.1N 93.4W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 20:47:52 14.2N 93.2W ML=4.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 05:02:32 14.2N 93.2W Mw=5.7 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 07:08:31 14.2N 93.3W ML=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 05:48:30 14.4N 93.2W ML=4.2 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 18:54:24 14.9N 93.2W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 16:33:21 15.5N 94.7W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
O: 18AUG2026 02:20:04 15.6N 93.7W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
The Flores area of Indonesia saw a decline in overall seismicity today.
Several moderate aftershocks continued to be felt. The strongest aftershocks
in the Flores Sea area in the past 24 hours were of M 5.2 and M 5.4.
Following is a listing of events in the Flores aftershock sequence of M>=4
which have occurred since the last issue of this summary:
O: 17AUG2026 07:13:52 7.8S 120.4E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 10:49:40 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 11:00:13 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 15:16:48 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 22:40:44 7.8S 120.7E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 04:16:27 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 10:42:40 7.9S 120.5E mb=5.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 10:44:49 7.9S 120.4E mb=5.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 12:45:55 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 14:22:09 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 21:05:01 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 18AUG2026 09:01:39 7.9S 120.5E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 12:39:35 8.0S 120.5E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 13:09:57 8.1S 120.3E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 22:59:18 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 12:51:07 8.2S 120.5E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 13:58:34 8.2S 120.5E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 16:08:46 8.2S 120.2E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 02:42:36 8.2S 120.3E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 08:51:59 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 06:34:48 8.4S 122.2E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 07:20:30 8.4S 121.3E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 09:16:06 8.4S 121.6E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 14:12:28 8.4S 121.4E mb=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 18AUG2026 04:42:47 8.4S 121.3E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 07:54:30 8.9S 120.9E ML=2.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
A moderately strong earthquake occurred today in southern Sumatra with M 5.6.
NEIC reported possible shaking in Southern Sumatra near Teluk Dalam, Indonesia.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Indonesia at Padang, Lubukbergalung.
This event is the strongest recorded within about 200 km of this epicenter
in Southern Sumatra since an M 7.1 on April 24, 2023 (following an M 5.7 and M 5.8 on April 22, 2023.
At the time this summary noted:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was a major M 7.1-7.3 in the Nias region of
Indonesia south of Sumatra. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity VI in Sumatra at Bukit Tinggi; V in Padang Sidempuan, Sibolga, Sungaipenuh, Jambi, and IV in Pdang, Sumatra with intensity II-III in Pekan Baru, Duria, and Medan among others.
BMG gave this event M 7.3 with intensity up to IX in Nias Island with some minor damage.
This is at the same epicenter as a series of strong foreshocks on April 22, 2023.
These had been described on April 22 in this summary as:
"A series of moderate to strong earthquakes of M 6.1, 5.8 and 5.5 occurred in the
Nias region southwest of Sumatra today. These were the strongest earthquakes
in the world today. BMG reported these earthquakes of M 5.9, 6.1 and 5.5 in Nias, Sumatra, Indonesia were felt with intensity IV in Nias, Mentawai; III in Nandailing natal, Mias, Agam, and II ikn Tapanuli, Padang, Pasaman, Bukittinggi, Pariaman, Rokan Hulu and Mesuji, Indonesia.
These earthquakes may be related to the recent eclipse-induced seismicity
in Central Indonesia but they are not specifically eclipse-induced.
They are, however likely related to strong tidal stresses with the new moon and eclipse
of April 20 as the first in the series of M 5.9-6.1 occurred within minutes
of local solar midnight when tidal stresses are maximized.
Forecast 152267 had expected today's enhanced seismicity in this region
within about 100 km was likely around April 18. This activity may have
also been promoted by the M 6.7 in Ecuador of March 18, 2023 as it is antipodal
to that mainshock." (April 22, 2023)
The only earthquake of M>=7.1 in the past 35 years within about 250 km of today's
epicenter was an M 7.0 in Sumatra on February 25, 2008. This followed an event of
M 8.2 about 350 km to the southeast of this on September 13, 2007. ..." (April 24, 2023)
This epicenter was at 103 degrees from Hurricane Lala when it made landfall
in Hawaii yesterday. This was discussed in the previous issue of this summary
as:
"HURR LALA 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 19.1N 156.5W 80 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific over Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. It is making landfall in Hawaii at the time of this writing. Extensive flooding is expected. A moderate earthquake could occur near Hawaii in the next several days. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 16, 2026) ... but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to intensity in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity as well as continued elevated seismicity in the area of Hawaii." (August 17-18, 2026.
In addition to being related to Hurricane Lala, this epicente is also near
the antipode of the M 7.4 in Colombia and may have been promoted by energy
associated with that source.
O: 18AUG2026 06:02:21 0.6S 98.5E MW=5.6 EMSC KEPULAUAN BATU, INDONESIA
Moderate earthquakes of M 5.3 and M 4.9 also continued today in the State of Yap, Micronesia.
NEIC reported these events were felt in Yap with intensity up to V.
This continue a series which began on August 15, 2026 which were described
in that previous issue of this summary as:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Caroline Islands, Micronesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Caroline Islands, with V in Yap and IV in Rumung and Gagil, Yep, Micronesia.
This epicenter is at 143 degrees from the M 7.4 in Colombia and may have
been promoted by energy from that source." (August 15, 2026)
O: 17AUG2026 22:53:11 9.7N 138.4E MW=5.3 EMSC STATE OF YAP, MICRONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 18:51:10 9.7N 138.4E mb=4.9 EMSC STATE OF YAP, MICRONESIA
An unusual earthquake of M 4.3 occurred in Peninsular India today in the
area of Uttar Pradesh. This event occurred near local solar noon. The last earthquake with M>=4.3 within about 200
km of this epicenter in India occurred as an M 4.7 on August 31, 1994.
Several earthquakes of M 4.6 hit a region about 300 km southeast
of today's epicenter in July, 2022. At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual M 4.6 also shook the region of peninsular India in the Chhattisgarh
area today.
This event occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted
by high tidal stresses with the new moon about an hour and a half previous." (July 29, 2022)
and
"An earthquake of M 4.6 shook the Chhattisgarh region of central Peninsular India
today. NEIC reported this earthquake of M 4.6 in India was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of India in Baikunthpur Chhattisgarh.
The last earthquake of M>=4.6 within about 200 km of this epicenter in India was an M 4.6-4.7 on September
1, 2018 and a similar event of April 10, 2018. The last earthquake of significantly
lareger magnitude in this area was an M 5.0 on October 18, 2012.
At that time this summary noted in this regard:
"An unusual earthquake also occurred today in Southern India with M 5.0.
A series of unusual earthquakes have hit Peninsular India in the past week
adding to the suspicion that a large earthquake may be looming in the Assam
area. There are no immediate reports of felt activity or damage from today's
earthquake but an M 5.0 in this region may have done regional damage. The
only earthquake of similar or larger magnitude within 200 km of this epicenter
was an M 5.8 about 200 km to the southwest of this on May 21, 1997." (October 18, 2012)
This was expanded upon later when the M 4.6 hit on April 10, 2018 as:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.6 occurrred in northern India today. ASC reported
it was felt in parts of Singrauli District near Rihand reservoir in eastern Madhya Pradesh. It was
felt with intensity IV in Bargawan, Jayant, Morwa, Singrauli, Vidhyanagar and Waidhan. People
fled outside in Ampara and Bijipur and cracks developed in building walls in Anpara. Some
power outages were reported. The event was also reported felt with lighter intensity II-III
in Bagni, Bina, Ghorawal, Arma, Khaliari, Myorpur, Ramgarh, Renukoot, Robersganj, Shaktinagar, Sukrit and Waini and in Gurmura,
Hkariya and Obra with lesser intensity. One person fainted in Gainiari-Baliari and
was hospitalized due to the quake. This event occurred about 15 degrees north
of the geomagnetic equator and may have been promoted by the current geomagnetic
storm. If it is reservoir-related seismicity, this too can be promoted by
geomagnetic effects. The last earthquake of M>=4.6 within about 200 km of this
epicenter in India was an M 5.0 on October 18, 2012 and prior to that an M 4.8
on June 12, 2001. The strongest event in the area in the past 25 years was an M 5.8
southwest of this on May 21, 1997." (April 10-11, 2018, July 11, 2022)
This epicenter determination by EMSC may be in error as a depth of 153 km
is listed for an event under Peninsular India which seems unlikely.
The given epicenter is at 104 degrees from the eye of Hurricane Lala at
the time of its occurrence (20.5N 160.5W). Like recent major earthquakes
in Sumatra (see discussion above) it is likely it was promoted by
energy from the landfall of Hurricane Lala today.
O: 17AUG2026 05:36:05 25.1N 80.5E MW=4.3 EMSC UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii in Papaikou, Hilo, Naalehu, Kamuela and Volcano.
Hurricane Lala passed over this epicenter two days ago and it may have been promoted by stresses from that storm.
Seismic enhancement had been expected with this storm landfall in Hawaii by
this summary.
O: 17AUG2026 19:24:08 19.3N 155.8W MB=4.2 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
A series of moderate aftershocks including an M 4.7, 4.6 and M 4.9 occurred today in the area of Granada, Spain.
NEIC reported the M 4.9 was felt with intensity IV in Granada at Albolote, V in Maracena, Pulianas; IV in Granada, Otura, and III in Agron, Baza and Roquetas de Mar, Almeria and in Malaga.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Spain in Cullar-Vega, Armilla, Zubia, Huetor Vega, Granada, Cajar, Santafe, Monachil, Padul, Maracena, Jun, Cenes de la Vega, Atarfe, Albolote, Dudar, Guejar-Sierra, Orgiva, and others. A loud rumble accompanied the quakes.
NEIC reported the M 4.7 was felt with intensity II in Agron, Granada, Spain.
These follow an M 5.0-5.2 mainshock and were widely felt in the epicentral area.
" ... an M 5.0 (hit) near local solar midnight in Spain (August 15, 2026).
The M 5.0 is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter
in Spain since an M 5.2 on July 14, 2025 about 200 km southeast of today's
epicenter and an M 5.1 on May 11, 2011 about the same distance to the northeast
of today's epicenter. At the time this summary noted the antipodal relation
with a strong earthquake in New Zealand on the same date and the consequences
of the event in Spain from that far-field aftershock as:
"The initial event in the New Zealand series of M 4.8-5.0 was located within
less than 100 km of being exactly antipodal to the subsequent earthquakes
in Spain. Earthquakes are exactly antipodal if their latitudes are the same
and their longitudes are in opposite hemispheres and numerically add to 180.
In this case the latitudes are 38 South for New Zealand and 38 North for Spain
and the longitudes are 178 East for New Zealand and 2 West for Spain. This
is an exact antipodal pair, highly unusual and very likely related to each
other. There are many possible causes of antipodal pairs but in this
case the most likely appears to be a direct seismic connection. Seismic
energy is concentrated at the antipode (exact opposite point on the earth)
because of the spherical shape of the earth. Where antipodal regions are
seismic, antipodal pairs are common but antipodal events in two regions which see rare earthquakes
such as occurred today are much more significant in the hypothesis of
antipodal triggering." (August 14-15, 2026)
Today's activity in Spain was accompanied by an M 4.0 at the antipode
in North Island New Zealand 38 minutes after the mainshock in Spain and
30 and 35 minutes after the M 4.6 and M 4.7 aftershocks in Spain. Travel time
curves show diffracted and reflected S-waves take this time to reach the
distance from a mainshock to the antipode.
Following are some of the larger events in this swarm in Spain that occurred
today.
O: 18AUG2026 09:34:35 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.6 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 10:39:43 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 10:39:43 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.7 NEIC SPAIN
O: 17AUG2026 12:54:11 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 17AUG2026 20:48:27 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.0 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:37:45 37.1N 3.7W Mw=4.8 EMSC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:37:45 37.1N 3.7W Mw=4.8 NEIC SPAIN
O: 18AUG2026 08:53:09 37.1N 3.6W ML=4.0 EMSC SPAIN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in the Alaska Peninsula was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Alaska Peninsula in Kodiak.
O: 17AUG2026 20:35:09 57.3N 155.0W ML=4.5 EMSC ALASKA PENINSULA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Svalbard, Arctic was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Svalbard, Arctic in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Svalbard and Jan Mayen.
The total eclipse of the sun was visible at this epicenter on August 12, 2026.
This epicenter is located at 103 degrees from the M 7.7 in Flores Sea, Indonesia
and was probably promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 17AUG2026 19:51:23 77.5N 7.4E MB=4.8 EMSC SVALBARD REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.8 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kamchatka at Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Russia.
EMSC reported moderate shaking was also felt in Russia at Vilyuchinsk and Paratunka.
This is the strongest earthquake in Kamchatka since an M 6.6 and aftershocks
hit the area on June 19 and 20, 2026. At the time this summary noted:
"A minor geomagnetic storm occurred early on June 19. This reached the Hp30 index of 3.3
from 0045 through 0130 UT on June 19 - the strongest geomagnetic disturbance in several days.
The GOES 19 magnetometer shows a strong rise in geomagnetic field strength
of about 50% (from 60 nT to 120 nT in a few minutes around 04:35 UT) beginning about 03:00 and lasting through about 06:00 UT. An arcjet
correction had to be applied to correct the GOES 19 satellite orbit at about
04:20. Normal operations and geomagnetic field strength resumed at about 05:50 UT. This geomagnetic excursion was followed by a strong earthquake
of M 6.6 in Kamchatka. Kamchatka was at local solar noon conditions at the
time of the start of this geomagnetic disturbance and may have been promoted by geomagnetic
effects associated with it as it was largely confined to high latitudes such
as those at Kamchatka.
The mainshock was reported by EMSC to have been felt in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky and Yelizovo, Russia
with moderate intensity. No tsunami was expected nor observed. The last earthquake
in Kamchatka within about 200 km of today's M 6.6 with with equal or larger
magnitude occurred as an M 7.8 on September 18, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"A major earthquake of M 7.7-7.8 occurred in Kamchtka today. This is the strongest
aftershock to date of the M 8.8 of July 29, 2025 in Kamchatka. It followed an
M 6.1 in Papua New Guinea. These occurred on September 19 Local Time. They were followed by an M 5.5 earthquake in the
Scotia Sea at a nearly antipodal location to Kamchatka.
The M 7.8 in Kamchatka was reported by NEIC to have been felt with damage in Kamchatka, Russia at Mohovaja with intensity VII; VI in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky; V in Jelizovo and IV in Magadan, Russia.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued a tsunami warning for coastal
areas in the Pacific stating:
"Hazardous Tsunami Waves are Forecast for some coasts. Tsunami waves reaching 1 to 3 meters aober
te tide level are possible along some coasts of Russia." (PTWC September 18, 2025)
The mainshock of M 7.8 was followed by a strong series of aftershocks suggesting
that this sequence is not over yet. Many of these were M>=5 and were lightly
felt in the epicentral area. The strongest was an M 6.0 about 10 minutes after
the mainshock and was probably triggered by an ScP wave reflecting off the
core-mantle boundary. These returns often trigger significant aftershocks
after major events.
These epicenters are located at the third node (120 degrees) from the South
Geomagnetic pole and were probably promoted by the recent geomagnetic storm,
the strongest in three months." (September 18, 2025, June 19, 2026)
This epicenter is located at 105 degrees from the M 7.4 in Colombia and at the
fifth node (72 degrees) from Flores and Sumatra and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 17AUG2026 12:38:05 53.0N 159.7E MW=5.8 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in Sicily, Italy was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sicily, Italy.
This is part of a strong eruption of Mt. Etna today. A hiker was killed
when hit by lightning while hiking in forbidden zone on Mt. Etna yesterday.
Lightning is a common feature of strong volcanic eruptions as charged
ash interacts with the atmosphere.
O: 18AUG2026 08:07:10 38.1N 15.1E ML=3.7 EMSC SICILY, ITALY
O: 18AUG2026 08:07:44 38.1N 15.0E ML=3.3 EMSC SICILY, ITALY
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 Lompoc.
O: 17AUG2026 09:42:46 34.5N 120.5W ML=2.7 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 17AUG2026 12:08:23 34.5N 120.5W ML=2.5 EMSC CENTRAL 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 in Pittsburg, Concord, Pleasant Hill, El Cerrito, Walnut Creek.
O: 17AUG2026 08:18:41 37.9N 122.0W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-18 00:00 UT 20.4N 165.8W 80 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. Extensive flooding and damage occurred in Hawaii with this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed. This storm is expected to intensity in the next two days and could continue to excite far-field seismicity as well as continued elevated seismicity in the area of Hawaii.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the area of the North Pacific east of
Yap, Caroline Islands and Guam. It is expected to track to the north and west over the next few days. Current position at 8N 154E is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 0615 0630 0720 C3.9 (August 18, 2026) 4.3E-03 *
4290 0213 0224 0240 C2.3 (August 17, 2026) 2.3E-03 *
Argentina M 4.1 02:21 UT
Flores M 4.8 02:39 UT
XXXX 0325 0332 0340 C1.1 (August 17, 2026) 1.0E-03 *
Flores M 4.9, M 5.3 03:33, 03:36 UT
Spain M 1.5 03:40 UT
4330 0557 0622 0648 C2.0 (August 17, 2026) 5.0E-03
Mariana Is M 4.8 06:55 UT
4390 1009 1022 1027 C1.3 (August 17, 2026) 1.5E-03
Gulf of Californai M 3.3 10:18 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 10:30 UT
4420 1027 1030 1050 C1.7 (August 17, 2026) 1.4E-03 *
Sumatra M 4.4 10:45 UT
Chiapas M 4.0 10:31 UT
Flores Sea M 5.2, M 5.4 10:43, 10:44 UT
4400 1051 1058 1102 C1.6 (August 17, 2026) 1.1E-03
Southern California M 2.1 10:51 UT
Sumatra M 4.4 10:45 UT
4430 1618 1653 1705 C2.0 (August 17, 2026) 4.7E-03
Southern Sumatra M 2.8 17:02 UT
Oaxaca M 4.0 16:33 UT
4490 1705 1717 1722 C1.7 (August 17, 2026) 1.8E-03
Central California M 2.5 17:11 UT
4440 1742 1747 1749 C3.2 (August 17, 2026) 8.6E-04
4480 1928 1935 2000 C1.4 (August 17, 2026) 1.1E-03 *
Svalbard M 4.8 19:51 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active August 18 and 20 minor storms August 20. Solar M-flare chance: 35% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 11, high: 7, mid-latitude: 19, time of max k: 20:00-22:00 UT; Max k: 4 Global Kp 3.67 2000-2400, August 17; Sunspot Number: 83; Radio Flux: 129 August 16, 2026.
A strong spike in the intensity of the geomagnetic field was registered on GOES 18 and 19 magnetometers
on August 18 starting at about 04:30 UT and peaking at about 05:05 UT. A smaller
but similar excursion was recorded beginning at 01:45 and peaking at 02:35 UT on August 18.
These were accompanied by a geomagnetic storm which reached Kp 6 at high latitudes
and was recorded with Hp30 as maximizing around 05:00-05:30 UT with Hpeo (GFZ)
index of 5.0. A smaller strom on August 17 occurred starting around
20:30 UT with Hp30 index of 4.667.
August 17, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In the previous issue of this summary it was observed that:
"An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
This earthquake was located at a depth of 180 km and was widely, but weakly
felt at the surface. EMSC reported strong shaking in Indonesia at Sunggal and in Malaysia
at Klng, Shah Alam, Kampung Sungai Ara, Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Perai, Tanjung Tokong, and Permatang Kuching; in Lhoknga, Indonesia at Banda Aceh and in Thailant in Phuket and Thalang.
NEIC reported intensity IV in Sumatra at Gunung Stoli, Sibolga, Padang and III in Malaysia at Georgetown, Tanjong Tokong, Kuah, Bukit Baru, Juru Pulau and in Phangnga, Thailand
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source." (August 16, 2026)
It seems it is necessary to justify the final statement in this paragraph.
Lots of places in the world are at 103-104 degrees from the position in the north Pacific of Hurricane
Lala on August 15-16, 2026 so why is this particularly noteworthy? First 103-104 degrees
is a distance of particular interest because waves from disturbances on the earth's surface reflect and refract
off the core-mantle boundary and return to the surface en masse in this limited distance
range (also called the p- and s-wave shadow zone boundary. In many cases
significant seismicity then follows in this distance range from major
surficial disturbances (such as strong ocean storm, earthquakes, etc.).
Given that such triggering is possible and observed, it would not
be wise to ignore it in situations such as the occurrence of the M 6.9 in
Sumatra coincident with the landfall of Hurricane Lala in Hawaii. But there
is more to this story. One might ask why the larger M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia
a day earlier was not also similarly triggered. In the view of this summary
it was!! At the time of these major earthquakes there were two strong
Tropical Cyclones in the North Pacific - the above mentioned Hurricane Lala
and a Tropical Storm - Hernan to the east of Lala. Data from this summary
on the locations of these two storms on August 14-15, 2026 as published
at the time follow:
"TS HERNAN 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 15.8N 135.4W 35 kts North Pacific east of Hawaii
TS Hernan (TD 08E) continued today in the Northern Pacific east of Hawaii with winds up to 35 kts. It will track to the west and is expected to dissipate in the North Pacific today before ito reaches Hawaii. No seismic enhancement in the North Pacific or at the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is expected at this time." (August 15, 2026)
"TS LALA 2026-08-15 00:00 UT 17.2N 153.0W 70 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. It will track to the northwest and is expected to reach Hawaii as a Hurricane around August 15-16. A moderate earthquake could occur near the time of landfall of this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 14-15, 2026)
"HURR LALA 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 19.1N 156.5W 80 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific over Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. It is making landfall in Hawaii at the time of this writing. Extensive flooding is expected. A moderate earthquake could occur near Hawaii in the next several days. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 16, 2026)
The M 7.7 in the Flores area of Indonesia was located at 104 degrees from
the eye of TS Hernan at the time of its occurrence. At the same time it was at the
fourth node (90 degrees) from the eye and landfall of Hurricane Lala. This is difficult to reconcile
with a shrug and the word "coincidence" and thus the aforementioned statement.
Readers are welcome to test these distance relations with the recognized
locations of the mainshocks in Sumatra and Flores, Indonesia.
O: 14AUG2026 21:58:24 8.4S 121.4E MW=7.7 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 10:54:53 3.0N 99.0E MW=6.9 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
"The new moon and solar eclipse arrived on August 12, 2026 at 17:37 UT. This will include a total eclipse of the sun. This eclipse will be total near Iceland and Greenland at its peak with the greatest eclipse at 65N 25W over Iceland and will also be total in the area of Spain, Portugal, Southern France and northern Italy. These areas could see significantly enhanced seismicity beginning in several days. This eclipse will be partial in the northeastern U.S. and throughout Canada. Longitudes which are sub-solar (local solar noon) are near 85 West longitude while those at local solar midnight are centered near 95 East longitude. In the west these include area of Central and northwestern South America and eastern U.S. and in the east areas of western Indonesia, Myanmar, and eastern China. These areas are likely to see tidal triggering with this new moon. A moderately large to large tidally triggered earthquake is considered moderately likely with this new moon." (August 9-14, 2026)
The other edge of the p- and s- wave shadow zone occurs near 144 degrees
from major surficial disturbances. An unusual M 4.9 occurred today
in the South Atlantic Ocean which epicenter was at 142 degrees from the
eye of Hurricane Lala at the time of its occurrence. This is the strongest
earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in the South Atlantic
since an M 4.9 on July 26 and July 27, 2026, the only such events in the
past 35 years. At the time of these similar events at the end of July
this summary noted:
"NEIC reported a pair of earthquakes of M 5.0 and M 4.9 in the South Atlantic Ocean was not felt in this remote area today.
The second of these (M 4.9) occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted
by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects. This is an unusual epicenter for moderate
earthquakes. The only earthquake recorded within about 200 km of this epicenter in the past
35 years with M>=4 was an M 4.4 on June 4, 1999." (July 26-27, 2026)
These epicenters are located at 80.0 degrees (node nine) from Chiapas and the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Colombia and at 143 degrees from Mindanao and the eye of Hurricane Lala
at the time of the latest event and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 16AUG2026 17:11:07 22.6S 20.4W MW=4.9 NEIC SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN
An earthquake of M 5.2 occurred today in Chiapas, Mexico. It may have been
felt lightly in this epicentral area. This is the strongest aftershock zone of the M 7.3 of July 17, 2026 in
Chiapas since an M 5.2 on July 31, 2026, but the last of larger magnitude
was an M 5.9 on July 28, 2026.
Today's events in Chiapas, Mexico occurred at 145 degrees from Flores, Indonesia and was likely promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 16AUG2026 15:52:52 14.4N 93.0W Mw=5.2 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 15:52:52 14.4N 93.0W MW=5.2 NEIC CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 13:32:52 15.8N 94.0W ML=4.2 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 17:10:49 13.8N 93.4W ML=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 21:43:13 13.8N 92.9W ML=4.4 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 17:07:15 13.9N 93.5W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 17AUG2026 05:33:31 14.1N 93.4W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 18:00:28 14.2N 93.2W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 21:26:47 14.2N 94.2W ML=4.2 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
O: 16AUG2026 19:21:15 14.3N 93.4W ML=4.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF CHIAPAS, MEXICO
An unfelt earthquake of M 5.0 occurred today in the area of Fiji.
This event occurred within several minutes of local solar noon and
was likely promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize
near this hour.
O: 17AUG2026 00:08:07 17.7S 178.7W MW=5.0 NEIC FIJI REGION
Moderate to moderately strong aftershocks also continued today in the region
of Flores, Indonesia. A series of M 5.2, 5.3 and 5.2 occurred within
several minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted by energy from
tidal and geomagnetic stresses. These events coincide with a C1.1 solar
flare which maximized at this time. Preliminary data on this solar flare
from SWPC follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0325 0332 0340 C1.1 (August 16, 2026) 1.0E-03 *
Flores M 5.3, 5.2 03:36, 03:35 UT
O: 17AUG2026 03:48:04 8.2S 121.5E MW=5.2 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:36:39 8.3S 121.4E MW=5.3 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:35:44 8.3S 120.2E MW=5.2 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:35:44 8.3S 120.1E MW=5.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 00:46:45 8.3S 121.5E MW=5.7 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
Following is a listing of events in the Flores aftershock sequence of M>=4
which have occurred since the last issue of this summary:
O: 16AUG2026 11:11:45 7.7S 120.8E MB=4.9 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 17:42:33 7.7S 120.6E ML=4.5 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 07:15:23 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 11:21:13 7.8S 120.5E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 12:37:52 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 15:58:54 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 00:56:35 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 01:31:02 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 01:33:01 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 01:39:42 7.8S 120.5E ML=3.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 01:49:03 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 02:39:20 7.8S 120.3E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 07:13:52 7.8S 120.4E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 07:08:19 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 07:24:30 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 08:14:58 7.9S 121.1E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 08:38:30 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 09:27:29 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:19:03 7.9S 120.7E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:23:24 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:31:36 7.9S 120.7E mb=5.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 13:38:43 7.9S 120.7E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 15:09:55 7.9S 120.8E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 15:50:31 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 17:26:15 7.9S 120.5E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 17:35:51 7.9S 121.0E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 00:53:01 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 09:17:00 8.0S 121.2E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:14:36 8.0S 120.7E Mw=5.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:33:13 8.0S 120.7E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:58:11 8.0S 121.3E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 17AUG2026 00:27:36 8.0S 120.2E mb=4.5 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 06:59:56 8.1S 120.9E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 09:53:08 8.1S 120.8E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 19:06:06 8.1S 120.8E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 22:16:42 8.1S 120.1E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 23:50:49 8.1S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:04:03 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:33:53 8.1S 121.1E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 07:50:34 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 14:38:25 8.2S 121.2E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 21:48:42 8.2S 120.7E mb=4.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:17:34 8.3S 121.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 19:27:06 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:35:44 8.3S 120.2E mb=5.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:36:42 8.3S 121.3E mb=5.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 03:48:03 8.3S 121.3E mb=5.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 05:47:11 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 00:46:44 8.4S 121.5E mb=5.7 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 00:54:45 8.4S 121.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 05:09:14 8.4S 121.4E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 06:34:48 8.4S 122.2E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 02:58:28 8.5S 121.6E ML=4.5 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:04:14 8.7S 121.8E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 22:55:19 9.2S 122.0E ML=4.0 EMSC SAVU SEA
An unusual earthquake of M 4.3 occurred in Peninsular India today in the
area of Uttar Pradesh. This event occurred near local solar noon. The last earthquake with M>=4.3 within about 200
km of this epicenter in India occurred as an M 4.7 on August 31, 1994.
Several earthquakes of M 4.6 hit a region about 300 km southeast
of today's epicenter in July, 2022. At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual M 4.6 also shook the region of peninsular India in the Chhattisgarh
area today.
This event occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted
by high tidal stresses with the new moon about an hour and a half previous." (July 29, 2022)
and
"An earthquake of M 4.6 shook the Chhattisgarh region of central Peninsular India
today. NEIC reported this earthquake of M 4.6 in India was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of India in Baikunthpur Chhattisgarh.
The last earthquake of M>=4.6 within about 200 km of this epicenter in India was an M 4.6-4.7 on September
1, 2018 and a similar event of April 10, 2018. The last earthquake of significantly
lareger magnitude in this area was an M 5.0 on October 18, 2012.
At that time this summary noted in this regard:
"An unusual earthquake also occurred today in Southern India with M 5.0.
A series of unusual earthquakes have hit Peninsular India in the past week
adding to the suspicion that a large earthquake may be looming in the Assam
area. There are no immediate reports of felt activity or damage from today's
earthquake but an M 5.0 in this region may have done regional damage. The
only earthquake of similar or larger magnitude within 200 km of this epicenter
was an M 5.8 about 200 km to the southwest of this on May 21, 1997." (October 18, 2012)
This was expanded upon later when the M 4.6 hit on April 10, 2018 as:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.6 occurrred in northern India today. ASC reported
it was felt in parts of Singrauli District near Rihand reservoir in eastern Madhya Pradesh. It was
felt with intensity IV in Bargawan, Jayant, Morwa, Singrauli, Vidhyanagar and Waidhan. People
fled outside in Ampara and Bijipur and cracks developed in building walls in Anpara. Some
power outages were reported. The event was also reported felt with lighter intensity II-III
in Bagni, Bina, Ghorawal, Arma, Khaliari, Myorpur, Ramgarh, Renukoot, Robersganj, Shaktinagar, Sukrit and Waini and in Gurmura,
Hkariya and Obra with lesser intensity. One person fainted in Gainiari-Baliari and
was hospitalized due to the quake. This event occurred about 15 degrees north
of the geomagnetic equator and may have been promoted by the current geomagnetic
storm. If it is reservoir-related seismicity, this too can be promoted by
geomagnetic effects. The last earthquake of M>=4.6 within about 200 km of this
epicenter in India was an M 5.0 on October 18, 2012 and prior to that an M 4.8
on June 12, 2001. The strongest event in the area in the past 25 years was an M 5.8
southwest of this on May 21, 1997." (April 10-11, 2018, July 11, 2022)
This epicenter determination by EMSC may be in error as a depth of 153 km
is listed for an event under Peninsular India which seems unlikely.
The given epicenter is at 104 degrees from the eye of Hurricane Lala at
the time of its occurrence (20.5N 160.5W). Like recent major earthquakes
in Sumatra (see discussion above) it is likely it was promoted by
energy from the landfall of Hurricane Lala today.
O: 17AUG2026 05:36:05 25.1N 80.5E MW=4.3 EMSC UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.7-4.0, M 3.4 and M 3.0 in Hawaii were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii in Papaikou, Hilo, Naalehu, Kamuela and Volcano.
The earthquake of M 3.7 (NEIC) to M 4.0 (EMSC) was felt with intensity III in Hawaii at Honokaa, Pahoa, Kurtistown, Hilo, Volcano and II in Kamuela, Captain Cook, OOkala, Papaikou, Ninole, Mountain View, Honolulu, Kailua, Wailuku, Paauilo, Waikoloa, Kailua Kona and Naalehu and occurred while Hurricane Lala made landfall near this
epicenter and may have been promoted by stresses from that storm.
EMSC reported it was felt in Leilani Estates, Hawaii as "A bump during LaLa".
This M 3.7-4.0 occurred within a couple of minutes of local solar noon and may
have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near
this hour.
Seismic enhancement had been expected with this storm landfall in Hawaii by
this summary. For example in the previous issue it was noted:
"TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. It will track to the northwest and is expected to reach Hawaii as a Hurricane around August 15-16. A moderate earthquake could occur near the time of landfall of this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 15, 2026)
O: 16AUG2026 00:32:06 19.4N 155.3W MB=3.0 NEIC Hawaii
O: 15AUG2026 17:09:29 19.5N 156.4W MB=3.4 NEIC Hawaii
O: 15AUG2026 22:32:05 19.3N 155.3W MB=3.7 NEIC Hawaii
O: 15AUG2026 22:32:05 19.3N 155.3W MB=4.0 EMSC Hawaii
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 in Greater Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Greater Los Angeles, California with a jolt and a loud noise in Jurupa Valley, Eastvale, Ontario, Glen Avon, Upland, Pedley, Norco, Montclair, Los Serranos, Home Gardens.
A M 2.0 aftershock a minute after the mainshock was also felt lightly.
These events occurred near local solar noon and were probably promoted
by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from Flores, Indonesia
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 16AUG2026 20:35:29 34.0N 117.6W MW=2.9 NEIC GREATER LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
O: 16AUG2026 20:35:29 34.0N 117.6W ML=2.8 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
O: 16AUG2026 20:36:30 34.0N 117.6W ML=2.0 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.
EMSC reported the series of light aftershocks continued near Grenada, Spain today.
Some of the stronger events were reported by EMSC to have been felt lightly in Huetor Vega, Spain.
O: 16AUG2026 19:09:26 37.1N 3.6W ML=2.3 EMSC SPAIN
O: 16AUG2026 09:32:48 37.1N 3.6W ML=1.9 EMSC SPAIN
O: 16AUG2026 16:43:07 37.1N 3.6W MW=2.2 EMSC SPAIN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 off Valparaiso, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Valparaiso, Chile in Vina del Mar, Quillota, Cartagena, San Antonio, Santiago, Lo Prado and in Las Heras, Argentina.
This epicenter is located at 101 degrees from the current position of the
eye of Hurricane Lala north of Hawaii and like other events noted in
this summary may have been promoted by energy from the landfall of that
hurricane (see various discussions above).
O: 16AUG2026 16:32:51 32.7S 72.1W MW=4.8 EMSC OFFSHORE VALPARAISO, CHILE
O: 16AUG2026 17:14:10 32.8S 72.0W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE VALPARAISO, CHILE
O: 16AUG2026 17:35:18 32.8S 72.0W ML=4.2 EMSC OFFSHORE VALPARAISO, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-17 00:00 UT 20.8N 160.9W 70 kts Northwest of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific northwest of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. Extensive flooding occurred in Hawaii. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected but enhanced seismicity at 103 and 144 degrees from Hurricane Lala has been observed.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 0213 0224 0240 C2.3 (August 16, 2026) 2.3E-03 *
XXXX 0325 0332 0340 C1.1 (August 16, 2026) 1.0E-03 *
4050 0310 0318 0330 C3.7 (August 16, 2026) 1.8E-03 *
Vanuatu M 6.1 03:20 UT
N. Island, NZ. M 4.0 03:25 UT
SpainM 1.5 03:26 UT
4030 0228 0233 0242 C1.0 (August 16, 2026) 1.0E-03
Flores M 3.9 02:35 UT
4040 0242 0249 0253 C2.7 (August 16, 2026) 1.3E-03
Spain M 3.1 02:41 UT
Flores M 4.0 02:46 UT
4060 0340 0347 0359 C1.4 (August 16, 2026) 1.6E-03
Northern Italy M 4.1 03:49 UT
Flores M 5.0 03:42 UT
Kamchatka M 4.6 03:42 UT
Vanuatu M 6.1 03:20 UT
4070 0437 0451 0500 C2.3 (August 16, 2026) 2.6E-03
Shikoku, Japan M 4.1 04:37 UT
Wyoming M 2.6 04:34 UT
N. Island, NZ. M 3.8 04:52 UT
4080 0608 0616 0618 C1.3 (August 16, 2026) 7.5E-04
4090 0631 0637 0640 C1.4 (August 16, 2026) 7.4E-04
Flores M 4.1 06:35 UT
Central California M 2.6 06:41 UT
4110 0831 0838 0851 C1.8 (August 16, 2026) 2.1E-03
South Is. New Zealand M 4.1 08:32 UT
Flores M 4.3 08:38 UT
4130 0956 0959 1002 C1.5 (August 16, 2026) 5.9E-04
Sonora Mexico M 4.2 09:57 UT
Flores M 4.1 10:04 UT
4200 1232 1239 1244 C1.5 (August 16, 2026) 1.1E-03
Flores M 4.2 12:37 UT
4230 1458 1512 1525 C1.7 (August 16, 2026) 2.9E-03
Flores M 4.7 15:09 UT
Hawaii M 3.0 15:25 UT
4260 1901 1928 1945 C8.2 (August 16, 2026) 1.4E-02
Sichuan M 3.6 19:23 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 19:21 UT
4270 2148 2155 2206 C1.0 (August 16, 2026) 1.3E-03
Chiapas M 3.9 21:51 UT
Gulf of California M 3.6, 3.6 21:48, 21:49 UT
4280 2206 2211 2213 C1.0 (August 16, 2026) 6.3E-04
Sichuan M 3.0 22:09 UT
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active August 17-18 quiet August 19. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 4, high: 4, mid-latitude: 3, time of max k: 09:00-11:00 UT; Max k: 4 Global Kp 2.00 0800-1000, August 16; Sunspot Number: 83; Radio Flux: 129 August 16, 2026.
A major excursion in the magnetic field measured at 72W longitude by the magnetometer
on GOES-19 occurred beginning at 01:00-01:01 UT on August 17, 2026. An arcjet maneuver
was performed starting at 01:01 UT on August 17 to return the satellite to expected orbit and was completed by 02:30 UT
at which point normal operations resumed. Moderate earthquakes accompanied
this geomagnetic excursion in Sulawesi (M 4.5), Tajikistan (M 4.2) and Flores
among others but no strong earthquakes were recorded at this time. The events
in Sulawesi and Tajikistan occurred within two seconds of each other and within
a minute of the geomagnetic pulse registered on GOES 19 and were likely related
to the excursion. Moderate to strong earthquakes often accompany such geomagnetic
excursions and this summary has been chronicled these for the past half year. Data on the Sulawesi and Tajikistan events follow:
O: 17AUG2026 01:01:29 1.3S 121.1E MB=4.5 NEIC SULAWESI, INDONESIA
O: 17AUG2026 01:01:31 38.3N 69.6E MB=4.2 NEIC TAJIKISTAN
The Hp30 index (GFZ) did not exceed 3.0 on August 16, 2026. No geomagnetic storms were observed.
August 16, 2026
UPDATE:
In the previous issue of this summary it was observed that:
"An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
This earthquake was located at a depth of 180 km and was widely, but weakly
felt at the surface. EMSC reported strong shaking in Indonesia at Sunggal and in Malaysia
at Klng, Shah Alam, Kampung Sungai Ara, Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Perai, Tanjung Tokong, and Permatang Kuching; in Lhoknga, Indonesia at Banda Aceh and in Thailant in Phuket and Thalang.
NEIC reported intensity IV in Sumatra at Gunung Stoli, Sibolga, Padang and III in Malaysia at Georgetown, Tanjong Tokong, Kuah, Bukit Baru, Juru Pulau and in Phangnga, Thailand
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source." (August 16, 2026)
It seems it is necessary to justify the final statement in this paragraph.
Lots of places in the world are at 103-104 degrees from the position in the north Pacific of Hurricane
Lala on August 15-16, 2026 so why is this particularly noteworthy? First 103-104 degrees
is a distance of particular interest because waves from disturbances on the earth's surface reflect and refract
off the core-mantle boundary and return to the surface en masse in this limited distance
range (also called the p- and s-wave shadow zone boundary. In many cases
significant seismicity then follows in this distance range from major
surficial disturbances (such as strong ocean storm, earthquakes, etc.).
Given that such triggering is possible and observed, it would not
be wise to ignore it in situations such as the occurrence of the M 6.9 in
Sumatra coincident with the landfall of Hurricane Lala in Hawaii. But there
is more to this story. One might ask why the larger M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia
a day earlier was not also similarly triggered. In the view of this summary
it was!! At the time of these major earthquakes there were two strong
Tropical Cyclones in the North Pacific - the above mentioned Hurricane Lala
and a Tropical Storm - Hernan to the east of Lala. Data from this summary
on the locations of these two storms on August 14-15, 2026 as published
at the time follow:
"TS HERNAN 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 15.8N 135.4W 35 kts North Pacific east of Hawaii
TS Hernan (TD 08E) continued today in the Northern Pacific east of Hawaii with winds up to 35 kts. It will track to the west and is expected to dissipate in the North Pacific today before ito reaches Hawaii. No seismic enhancement in the North Pacific or at the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is expected at this time." (August 15, 2026)
"TS LALA 2026-08-15 00:00 UT 17.2N 153.0W 70 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. It will track to the northwest and is expected to reach Hawaii as a Hurricane around August 15-16. A moderate earthquake could occur near the time of landfall of this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 14-15, 2026)
"HURR LALA 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 19.1N 156.5W 80 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific over Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. It is making landfall in Hawaii at the time of this writing. Extensive flooding is expected. A moderate earthquake could occur near Hawaii in the next several days. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 16, 2026)
The M 7.7 in the Flores area of Indonesia was located at 104 degrees from
the eye of TS Hernan at the time of its occurrence. At the same time it was at the
fourth node (90 degrees) from the eye and landfall of Hurricane Lala. This is difficult to reconcile
with a shrug and the word "coincidence" and thus the aforementioned statement.
Readers are welcome to test these distance relations with the recognized
locations of the mainshocks in Sumatra and Flores, Indonesia.
O: 14AUG2026 21:58:24 8.4S 121.4E MW=7.7 NEIC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 10:54:53 3.0N 99.0E MW=6.9 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
"The new moon and solar eclipse arrived on August 12, 2026 at 17:37 UT. This will include a total eclipse of the sun. This eclipse will be total near Iceland and Greenland at its peak with the greatest eclipse at 65N 25W over Iceland and will also be total in the area of Spain, Portugal, Southern France and northern Italy. These areas could see significantly enhanced seismicity beginning in several days. This eclipse will be partial in the northeastern U.S. and throughout Canada. Longitudes which are sub-solar (local solar noon) are near 85 West longitude while those at local solar midnight are centered near 95 East longitude. In the west these include area of Central and northwestern South America and eastern U.S. and in the east areas of western Indonesia, Myanmar, and eastern China. These areas are likely to see tidal triggering with this new moon. A moderately large to large tidally triggered earthquake is considered moderately likely with this new moon." (August 9-14, 2026)
Notable earthquakes and events:
An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 occurred today in the area of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
This earthquake was located at a depth of 180 km and was widely, but weakly
felt at the surface. EMSC reported strong shaking in Indonesia at Sunggal and in Malaysia
at Klng, Shah Alam, Kampung Sungai Ara, Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Perai, Tanjung Tokong, and Permatang Kuching; in Lhoknga, Indonesia at Banda Aceh and in Thailant in Phuket and Thalang.
NEIC reported intensity IV in Sumatra at Gunung Stoli, Sibolga, Padang and III in Malaysia at Georgetown, Tanjong Tokong, Kuah, Bukit Baru, Juru Pulau and in Phangnga, Thailand
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source.
This epicenter was at the longitude of maximum tidal stress at the time
of the solar eclipse of August 12, 2026 as reported in this and previous
issues of this summary and had been expected to see enhanced seismicity
at this time as:
"The new moon and solar eclipse arrived on August 12, 2026 at 17:37 UT. This will include a total eclipse of the sun. This eclipse will be total near Iceland and Greenland at its peak with the greatest eclipse at 65N 25W over Iceland and will also be total in the area of Spain, Portugal, Southern France and northern Italy. These areas could see significantly enhanced seismicity beginning in several days. This eclipse will be partial in the northeastern U.S. and throughout Canada. Longitudes which are sub-solar (local solar noon) are near 85 West longitude while those at local solar midnight are centered near 95 East longitude. In the west these include area of Central and northwestern South America and eastern U.S. and in the east areas of western Indonesia, Myanmar, and eastern China. These areas are likely to see tidal triggering with this new moon. A moderately large to large tidally triggered earthquake is considered moderately likely with this new moon." (August 9-14, 2026)
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Northern Sumatra,
Indonesia with M>=6.9 occurred on with M 8.6 on March 28, 2002 followed by an April 6, 2010 with M 7.7. At the time
this summary noted in this regard:
"A major earthquake of M 7.7-7.8 hit the Nias and Northern Sumatra area today.
The epicenter was near those of the great earthquakes in December, 2004 and
March, 2005 of M 9.3 and 8.6 respectively.
At least 18 people were injured in this earthquake in Sumatra,
Indonesia. At least 6 injuries were critical due to house
collapses and one person suffered a non-fatal heart attack.
Several houses collapsed in the village of Teupah Selatan on
Simeulue Island. Buildings sustained damaged elsewhere on the
island, including two government buildings, and electricity
poles were uprooted knocking out power to the entire island.
On Nias Island and on Simeulue Island, strong tremors sent the
residents of Guningsitoli, Sinabang and other towns running
for higher ground. The earthquake caused a power failure in
Banda Aceh and in Medan adding to the panic. Telecommunication
networks were also disrupted in Aceh where many people fled to
higher ground fearing a tsunami. At Banda Aceh, the earthquake
was felt for close to a minute sending people running
outdoors. The dome of the Sementara Masjid collapsed at Pemuka
village in Singkil. Several houses were flooded by "knee-high"
water in Singkil at Pasar, Pulo Saro, Singkil Lama, Titi
Ambria and Ujung, when land alongside the river subsided by as
much as 30-centimetres. Tremors were also felt at the Arun LNG
plant in Lhokseumawe and in the port of Belawan; power supply
was disrupted at the port but no damage was reported. Tremors
were felt strongly throughout Sumatra Uttara province and at
Medan where people rushed outdoors in panic across the city
including at the city's main hospital. At Binjai, many people
ran outdoors. At Sibolga, the quake was felt strongly for
close to a minute, pulled down utility poles and knocked a
motorcycle rider off his bike. Tremors caused panic at
Takengon and were also felt at Sigli and Langsa; a power
failure occurred at Langsa after the earthquake. At
Sibulusalam, a three storey nursing academy was damaged.
Shocks were also felt in Sumatera Barat and in Riau regency.
At Pekanbaru, in Riau regency, patients at the district
hospital were evacuated into the parking lot even though the
building did not sustain any damage.
Light tremors were felt as far away as Singapore, Malaysia and
Thailand. In Malaysia, tremors were felt in many parts of the
country including in high-rise buildings at Petaling Jaya and
on Penang island including those on Macallum Street, Rifle
Range and Sungai Ara causing fear among residents. In
Thailand, tremors were felt in Songhkla province and in the
southern city of Hat Yai. According to the USGS CIIM, tremors
were felt as far as Malé in the Maldive Islands.
A small local tsunami was generated by this earthquake. In the
Banyak Islands, several boats were marooned when the sea
rushed onshore. The tsunami was also recorded at tide guages
at Singkil and Teluk Dalam. Press reports claimed the sea
level dropped "several metres" that prompted many people to
flee to higher ground in coastal Sumatra. There was some panic
in the villages of Gunong Kleng Putong suak on the border of
West Aceh and Nagan Raya, after rumours of a rise in the sea
level. Hundreds of residents of Barat Daya, , Sialang, Suak
Bakong and Pulo Air in the sub-district of Kluet Selatan
evacuated to Sapik Durian Kawan villages in the Kluet Timur
sub-district. Many residents of Kemumue village and other
villages living on the coast in Labuhan Haji sub-district in
South Aceh regency, moved to higher areas. From Aceh Barat
regency, thousands of residents living in the coastal areas,
especially in the regency capital of Meulaboh also moved to
higher regions.
A tsunami watch was issued by the PTWC but later lifted for
the coast of Indonesia. Tsunami watches were also issued by
local agencies in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand but were
later lifted. In Malaysia, tsunami advisories were issued for
Kedah, Perlis and Pinang. In Thailand, advisories were issued
for the coastal areas of all provinces on the Andaman Sea and
asked residents to prepare to evacuate in case deemed
necessary. Tsunami advisories were not issued for the Indian
mainland or for the Andaman & Nicobar islands after INCOIS
models determined the event posed no danger.
...
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt within about 1500 km of the epicenter
with intensity II-III. Reports from Indonesia included those from Ayer, Itam,
Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi, Banting, Bukit Metagam, Butterworth, Gelugor, Georgetown,
Johor Bahru, Juru, Kajang-Sungai Chua, Kampong Koh, Kota Bahru, Kuala Lumpur,
Kuala Selangor, Lumut, Nilai, Parit Buntar, Perai, Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya,
Sungai Ara, Tanjong Bunga, Tanjong Malim and Tanjong Tokong. It was also reported felt in Singapore
750 km from the epicenter widely with intensity II. In Sumatra, Indonesia
it was reported with intensity IV-VI in Sibolga, Padang, Medan, Lhokseumawe,
Kuta, Bali, Jakarta, Duri, Belawan, and Banda Aceh. It was also reported
felt in the Maldives with intensity II at Male.
In our report yesterday (April 6, 2010) we anticipated this event as follows:
"The geomagnetic storm which began at the same time as the M 7.2 earthquake
in Baja California yesterday grew to the strongest geomagnetic disturbance
in more than three years today. The geomagnetic field was at highly active conditions today. The AP level was 49 and the high latitude AP was 75.
This is the highest level of disturbance in the geomagnetic field since
December 15, 2006 when the AP level was 104 and the high latitude AP was 120.
A global seismic watch is in effect for the coming week due to this
disturbance. Strong earthquakes are likely at auroral latitudes and
near the geomagnetic equator (most likely about 10 degree either side
of the geomagnetic equator) during this period. The likely maximum
magnitude is estimated to be about 1-1.5 units higher than that previously
estimated for events in this time period. Some global seismic
activation is likely with this geomagnetic disturbance with the most
likely large earthquakes around April 7-11." (April 6, 2010)
Note that the local date was April 7 and that the epicenter of this event
is exactly 10 degrees south of the local geomagnetic equator so the
forecast is quite accurate in these regards. We also noted the M 6+ event
in Indonesia yesterday in this regard:
"The strongest earthquakes of the day occurred on the equator as befits
seismic activity following strong geomagnetic disturbances. The largest
of these was an M 6.2 in the northern Indonesian waters south of Manado" (April 6, 2010)
The earthquake of M 7.7 today was the strongest in the region since an M 6.5
on March 28, 2005 and an M 9.3 on Boxing Day, December 26, 2004. That was
the strong tsunamigenic earthquakes which together with the Indian Ocean
tsunami killed more than 200,000 around the Indian Ocean coastline. Strong
earthquakes in the same area have also occurred in recent years with M 7.3-7.5
on November 2, 2002; February 20, 2008 and to the south on September 30, 2009.
The geomagnetic field strength was highly variable today as it often is during
strong geomagnetic storms such as continued today for the third day. As in previous
cases of major earthquakes, however, a strong variation in Hp and total field strength
as measured by GOES 11 and 12 accompanied the M 7.7 in Sumatra and peaked
within a minute of the occurrence of that event (22:14-22:15 UT), possibly triggering it.
The strongest variations in the field area measured and were closely
associated with the occurrence of this event as the HF map from Australia
shows below.
It is important to recognize that this is part of a pattern. On October 1, 2009
we reported in regard to the M 7.5 in Sumatra:
"The timing of today's earthquake of M 7.6-7.8 suggests that geomagnetic
effects may also have had a promotional effect of the earthquake. A strong
variation in solar X-ray flux (GOES 11 and 12) began within a minute of the
time of this event. This was the strongest x-ray flux event in several weeks
and may have had an effect on conditions leading to this earthquake." (October 1, 2009)
Or as our report of November 2-3, 2002 reported:
"A seismic watch was issued for the region of Indonesia, and especially
Sumatera in yesterday's daily summary. That watch had read:
"A strong (M>7) earthquake is likely within the next 5 days in the region of
Southern Indonesia, possibly in the Sumatera area with a secondary event
possibly in the region of Peru or northern So. America. This watch is based on
current global seismic activity and on the location of the X1.2 solar flare
which occurred yesterday at 17:00 UT. This flare affected areas near the
equator within about 20 degrees longitude of 100E and 80W. (November 1, 2002)"
(November 3, 2002)
The great shock of December 26, 2004 occurred in association with one of the
strongest Gamma Ray Bursts every observed. We have speculated in the past
an association between these two unusual events.
Tidal triggering may also have been involved in today's event in Sumatra." (April 6, 2010)
Today's epicenter is in the antipodal area of the M 7.4 in Colombia of August
10, 2026 and was also probably promoted by energy from that source. The
antipode to today's M 6.9 in Sumatra is an active seismic area near 3S 81W
in Ecuador. Several unlocated events were felt in this area of of Ecuador
in the hours prior to this event in Sumatra including an event widely felt in Ecuador
at Tutamandahostel, Sangolqui, and further activity (with the
possibility of a strong antipodal event) is considered likely at this time
by this summary. When the M 7.3 hit this area of Sumatra on April 7, 2010
this summary provided the following far field seismic enhancement summary:
"The following areas are expected to see increased seismicity in this period.
Maximum increased magnitude might be as high as 1.5 magnitude units for the next
two weeks (slightly more (about 0.2 units additional at shadow zone
boundaries).
0-5 degrees: Local aftershocks, Sumatra, South of Sumatra
9-10 degrees: Andaman Islands, south of Sumatra or Java
17-19 degrees: Myanmar, Banda Sea area, Ceram
34-36 degrees: Northern India, Xizang, Taiwan, southern Ryukyu Isl. Banda,
Southern Indian mid-ocean rise, Pakistan.
40 and 45 degrees: Hindu Kush*, eastern Iran, Mongolia, northern Ryukyu Isl.
Southern Honshu, Caroline Islands,
59-61 degrees: Eastern Turkey, Red Sea, eastern Turkey, Hokkaido/Kurils,
western Solomon Is, New Britain, New Ireland, Central east African rift.
71-73 degrees: Greece, Aegean Sea, Western Turkey, Kamchatka, northern
Kurils, Vanuatu/eastern Solomons/Loyalty Isl.
90 degrees: Italy, Central Aleutians, Svalbard
102-107 degrees: Hawaii, southern and eastern Alaska, Spain, U.K., Iceland
120 degrees: South Atlantic Ocean*, Off the coast of Southern Oregon/northern
California
142-146 degrees: Southern U.S. southern plains states, southeast U.S,
perhaps eastern Caribbean, southern and Central Chile (33-40S), East
Pacific Rise between about 22 and 30S, Gulf of California (18-24N);
Jalisco Mexico
176-180 degrees: Off the coast of Peru, near Ecuador/Galapagos region
(3S 80W). Strong possibility of moderate or large event in Northern
Peru/Colombia or Ecuador near the antipode of today's earthquake within
the next 6 days.
The last large earthquake in this region of Indonesia was accompanied by
a major eruption of the Galeras Volcano in Colombia and apparently triggered
that antipodal eruption. Similar volcanism or seismic activity could follow
in Ecuador/Colombia/Peru this time around." (April 7, 2010)
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source.
O: 15AUG2026 10:54:53 3.0N 99.0E MW=6.9 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
The last large earthquake in this region of Indonesia was accompanied by
a major eruption of the Galeras Volcano in Colombia and apparently triggered
that antipodal eruption. Similar volcanism or seismic activity could follow
in Ecuador/Colombia/Peru this time around." (April 7, 2010)
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from the landfall of Hurricane Lala on the
Island of Hawaii today and was probably primarily triggered by energy from that source.
O: 15AUG2026 10:54:53 3.0N 99.0E MW=6.9 EMSC NORTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
Following the initial publication of this analyses two moderate earthquakes
occurred near the antipode of the Sumatra earthquake in the area of northern
Peru (M 4.6) and in Ecuador at 3S 80W (see above for forecast for these events).
Readers are encouraged to check these for antipodality with northern Sumatra.
O: 15AUG2026 20:05:38 5.8S 81.2W MW=4.6 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NORTHERN PERU
O: 16AUG2026 00:22:12 3.3S 79.3W ML=4.2 EMSC NEAR COAST OF ECUADOR
A large number of moderate aftershocks of the major earthquake of M 7.7 in Flores, Indonesia
continued to occur today in the area of Flores, Indonesia.
O: 15AUG2026 12:14:39 8.2S 121.3E MB=5.2 NEIC FLORES, INDONESIA
Following is a list of aftershocks in Flores, Indonesia to the time of this
report with M>=4.
O: 15AUG2026 19:57:59 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 01:31:17 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 02:46:45 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 05:33:25 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 06:40:52 7.8S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 07:15:23 7.8S 120.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 16:05:29 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 16:24:08 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 16:58:06 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 18:32:27 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 21:08:36 7.9S 120.6E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 23:12:54 7.9S 120.6E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 01:04:03 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 04:06:11 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 04:59:47 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 06:51:51 7.9S 120.6E Mw=5.5 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 06:54:12 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 07:08:19 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 07:24:30 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 08:14:58 7.9S 121.1E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 08:38:30 7.9S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 09:27:29 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:14:36 7.9S 120.6E Mw=5.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:19:03 7.9S 120.7E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:23:24 7.9S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:31:34 7.9S 120.6E mb=5.1 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 09:47:32 8.0S 120.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 11:08:19 8.0S 120.1E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 16:41:17 8.0S 120.2E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 17:42:47 8.0S 121.3E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 17:44:15 8.0S 120.5E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 18:17:58 8.0S 120.6E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 21:07:12 8.0S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 01:19:35 8.0S 121.2E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 09:17:00 8.0S 121.2E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:33:13 8.0S 120.7E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 16AUG2026 10:58:11 8.0S 121.3E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES SEA
O: 15AUG2026 07:03:36 8.1S 120.6E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 07:39:40 8.1S 120.9E mb=5.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 09:08:22 8.1S 120.5E mb=4.6 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 09:23:14 8.1S 121.4E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 11:28:00 8.1S 120.9E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 16:46:38 8.1S 120.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 18:24:33 8.1S 121.1E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 19:25:48 8.1S 121.2E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 21:47:38 8.1S 120.2E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 03:06:27 8.1S 120.0E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 06:59:56 8.1S 120.9E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 09:53:08 8.1S 120.8E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 07:16:07 8.2S 121.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 07:19:32 8.2S 120.2E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 10:31:34 8.2S 120.5E mb=5.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 10:36:16 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 12:14:40 8.2S 121.4E mb=5.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 14:00:19 8.2S 121.6E mb=4.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 15:52:32 8.2S 121.4E mb=4.9 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 18:40:22 8.2S 120.7E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 18:43:05 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 19:15:55 8.2S 120.2E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 20:50:59 8.2S 121.2E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 21:26:50 8.2S 120.2E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 23:01:38 8.2S 120.8E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 23:20:32 8.2S 120.6E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 05:16:09 8.2S 122.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 07:50:34 8.2S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 08:02:28 8.3S 120.3E mb=4.4 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 09:32:55 8.3S 121.6E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 11:56:07 8.3S 121.4E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 12:39:52 8.3S 120.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 14:02:52 8.3S 120.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 16:35:42 8.3S 121.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 18:15:33 8.3S 121.5E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 18:25:47 8.3S 121.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 20:14:27 8.3S 120.7E mb=4.7 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 20:29:45 8.3S 120.5E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 21:46:01 8.3S 121.3E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 23:19:31 8.3S 121.2E ML=4.2 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 06:35:21 8.3S 121.5E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:17:34 8.3S 121.6E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 08:21:12 8.4S 121.4E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 19:56:43 8.4S 121.5E ML=4.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 03:42:59 8.4S 121.6E mb=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:13:38 8.5S 121.6E mb=5.8 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 10:04:14 8.7S 121.8E ML=4.1 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 09:09:11 8.8S 120.7E ML=4.3 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
Aftershocks of the M 5.2 earthquake in Spain were plentiful today. Some of these including
an M 2.4 were felt within minutes of local solar midnight in Spain in Velez-Malaga historic center and in Huetor Vega.
Two aftershocks of M>=3 were listed in the past 24 hours. Both were felt
in the area of Grenada, Spain.
O: 16AUG2026 02:40:53 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.1 EMSC SPAIN
O: 15AUG2026 06:57:44 37.1N 3.6W ML=3.0 EMSC SPAIN
The new moon and solar eclipse arrived on August 12, 2026 at 17:37 UT. This will include a total eclipse of the sun. This eclipse will be total near Iceland and Greenland at its peak with the greatest eclipse at 65N 25W over Iceland and will also be total in the area of Spain, Portugal, Southern France and northern Italy. These areas could see significantly enhanced seismicity beginning in several days. This eclipse will be partial in the northeastern U.S. and throughout Canada. Longitudes which are sub-solar (local solar noon) are near 85 West longitude while those at local solar midnight are centered near 95 East longitude. In the west these include area of Central and northwestern South America and eastern U.S. and in the east areas of western Indonesia, Myanmar, and eastern China. These areas are likely to see tidal triggering with this new moon. A moderately large to large tidally triggered earthquake is considered moderately likely with this new moon." (August 9-12, 2026)
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in the Balleny Islands was not felt in this remote area.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is near the exact location where the total eclipse of the sun
was maximized on August 12, 2026. It is likely it was promoted by tidal
and antipodal effects from that solar eclipse. This area had been expected
to see such antipodal effects with the eclipse as noted in previous issues
of this summary:
"In the previous summary this summary provided some historical insight
into the relation between total solar eclipses in the vicinity of of Europe
and accompanying major earthquakes in that region. Tidal stresses are
maximized at antipodal locations as well so today this summary will examine
some notable earthquakes antipodal to total solar eclipses. In the current
case the antipode of Iceland to Europe is in the vicinity of the Balleny
Islands north to New Zealand and the Kermadec Islands, an active seismic
region where a strong earthquake may be expected with the eclipse ..." (August 10-11, 2026)
The earthquake in the Balleny Islands today also coincided with a C-class (C1.2, #3750)
solar flare and may have been promoted by SFE from that flare. Preliminary data
from SWPC for this flare follow.
3750 0025 0033 0050 C1.2 (August 15, 2026) 6.6E-04 *
Balleny M 5.3 00:40 UT
This epicenter in the Balleny Islands is within a couple of degrees of
104 degrees from Honshu, Japan, Colombia, Chiapas, and Kyushu, japan and
may have been promoted by strong constructive interference of energy
from those sources.
O: 15AUG2026 00:40:13 62.9S 165.9E MB=5.3 NEIC BALLENY ISLANDS REGION
The strongest earthquake in the world today (outside Sumatra) was an M 6.1
in northern Vanuatu. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Port Olry, Sanma. This earthquake occurred near local solar noon and
may have been promoted by SFE from the largest solar flare of the past day -
a C3.8 which peaked at the same minute as the earthquake in Vanuatu occurred.
Preliminary data from SWPC for this flare follow.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0310 0320 0330 C3.8 (August 16, 2026) 1.0E-03 *
Vanuatu M 6.1 03:20 UT
This epicenter in Vanuatu is at 103 degrees from Chiapas, Mexico and at the
eighth node (45 degrees) from Flores and the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kyushu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources.
O: 16AUG2026 03:20:21 14.5S 167.2E MB=6.1 NEIC VANUATU (depth 159 km)
Some earthquakes following the Vanuatu earthquake which may have been
triggered by body waves from that event (in addition to a felt event in
northern Italy - see below) occurred as an M 4.6 off the east coast of Kamchatka
22 minutes later. The SS-wave takes this time to traverse the 65 degrees between
these two epicenter. Likewise a listed event of M 4.0 off the east Coast of North Island
New Zealand at 23 degrees from Vanuatu occurred 4 minutes and 14 seconds
after the Vanuatu event. Taking into account the depths of these events
at 159 km and 410 km the time for a p-wave to traverse this distance
is approximiately 4 minutes 14 seconds, a clear example of p-wave triggering.
A third event possibly triggered by surface waves from Vanuatu was an M 5.0
aftershock in Flores, Indonesia. Surface waves take 22-23 minutes to traverse
the 45 degrees between these two epicenter and the earthquake in Flores occurred
22.5 minutes after Vanuatu.
Possible far-field event which may have been triggered by seismic waves from Vanuatu:
O: 16AUG2026 03:24:34 36.2S 176.2E MB=4.0 EMSC OFF E. COAST OF N. ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND (depth 410 km)
O: 16AUG2026 03:42:36 51.4N 160.2E MB=4.6 EMSC OFF E. COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 16AUG2026 03:42:59 8.4S 121.6E MB=5.0 EMSC FLORES REGION, INDONESIA
O: 16AUG2026 03:49:25 44.1N 10.0E MB=4.1 NEIC NORTHERN ITALY
NEIC reported the earthquake of M 4.1 in Northern Italy was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Italy in Ligurien with V in La Spezia; IV in Vernazza, Ameglia, Sarzana, Aulla and III in Riomaggiore, Monterosso and in Toscana a Carrara, Fivizzano, and Casola in Lunigiana.
EMSC reported strong shaking in northern Italy at Pallerone, Gragnana, Carrara, Albiano Magra, Ameglia, La Spezia, Forte dei Marmi, Ricco del Golfo, Piano de Mommio, Pietrasanta, Viareggio, Torre del Lago, Puccini.
This earthquake is at 144 degrees from the M 6.1 in Vanuatu (see above) and
occurred 29 minutes after that event. This is the time it takes for a series
of body waves to reflect off internal earth boundaries, many of which return
to the surface near 144 degrees from the initiating earthquake. This has
led this summary to emphasize this distance in far-field triggering phenomena
but it is not common to see an instantaneous illustration of this principle.
This epicenter in Northern Italy is near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Sumatra and Chiapas, Mexico
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources. It is also near
the final area where the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026 was visible in Europe.
O: 16AUG2026 03:49:25 44.1N 10.0E MB=4.1 NEIC NORTHERN ITALY
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in Atascadero, Templeton, Paso Robles, Los Osos.
O: 16AUG2026 06:41:37 35.4N 120.7W MB=2.6 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.7-4.0, M 3.4 and M 3.0 in Hawaii were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii in Papaikou, Hilo, Naalehu, Kamuela and Volcano.
The earthquake of M 3.7 (NEIC) to M 4.0 (EMSC) was felt with intensity III in Hawaii at Honokaa, Pahoa, Kurtistown, Hilo, Volcano and II in Kamuela, Captain Cook, OOkala, Papaikou, Ninole, Mountain View, Honolulu, Kailua, Wailuku, Paauilo, Waikoloa, Kailua Kona and Naalehu and occurred while Hurricane Lala made landfall near this
epicenter and may have been promoted by stresses from that storm.
EMSC reported it was felt in Leilani Estates, Hawaii as "A bump during LaLa".
This M 3.7-4.0 occurred within a couple of minutes of local solar noon and may
have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near
this hour.
Seismic enhancement had been expected with this storm landfall in Hawaii by
this summary. For example in the previous issue it was noted:
"TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific southeast of Hawaii with winds up to 70 kts. It will track to the northwest and is expected to reach Hawaii as a Hurricane around August 15-16. A moderate earthquake could occur near the time of landfall of this storm. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected." (August 15, 2026)
O: 16AUG2026 00:32:06 19.4N 155.3W MB=3.0 NEIC Hawaii
O: 15AUG2026 17:09:29 19.5N 156.4W MB=3.4 NEIC Hawaii
O: 15AUG2026 22:32:05 19.3N 155.3W MB=3.7 NEIC Hawaii
O: 15AUG2026 22:32:05 19.3N 155.3W MB=4.0 EMSC Hawaii
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Caroline Islands, Micronesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Caroline Islands, with V in Yap and IV in Rumung and Gagil, Yep, Micronesia.
This epicenter is at 143 degrees from the M 7.4 in Colombia and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 15AUG2026 22:52:55 9.7N 138.2E MB=5.4 NEIC MICRONESIA
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 near Point Possession.
O: 15AUG2026 22:41:30 61.0N 150.3W MB=3.6 NEIC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in the Volcano Islands, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Volcano Islands, Japan.
This epicenter is at the 10th node (36 degrees) from Flores and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Sumatra
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15AUG2026 19:32:30 23.4N 142.8E MB=5.5 NEIC VOLCANO ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.7 in Sulawesi, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sulawesi, Indonesia in Manado and Palu and in Samariinda, Kalimantan, Indonesia.
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from Chiapas and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 15AUG2026 16:25:18 0.1N 120.2E MB=5.7 NEIC SULAWESI, INDONESIA
O: 15AUG2026 16:25:15 0.2N 120.3E MW=5.7 EMSC MINAHASA, SULAWESI, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei.
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from Colombia and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 15AUG2026 11:30:15 24.4N 122.3E MB=4.9 NEIC TAIWAN
O: 15AUG2026 11:30:15 24.5N 122.3E MB=4.9 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Guinea with IV near Angoram, Papua New Guinea.
A number of seismic waves from the M 6.9 in Northern Sumatra 15.5 minutes
before this earthquake in New Guinea were in the epicentral area of New Guinea
at 45 degrees from Sumatra at the time of the M 5.4 in New Guinea. These include
several reflected S-waves and surface waves. These may have helped trigger
this earthquake at this time.
This epicenter is located at 45.5 degrees from Sumatra (node 8) and half that
22.7 degrees (node 16) from Flores and may have been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 15AUG2026 11:10:24 4.4S 143.9E MB=5.4 NEIC NEW GUINEA
O: 15AUG2026 11:10:23 4.4S 144.0E MB=5.4 EMSC NEW GUINEA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
Some seismicity may be affected by weather due to wind, tidal surge and air pressure systems effects of the continental mass compared with adjoining plate masses. During the tropical storm season in the Northern Hemisphere we keep an eye on tropical storms which may affect seismicity according to our models. Currently the following tropical storms appear to have potential to affect seismicity in the coming week:
TROPICAL STORM HERNAN (DEPRESSION 08E)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS HERNAN 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 15.8N 135.4W 35 kts North Pacific east of Hawaii
TS Hernan (TD 08E) continued today in the Northern Pacific east of Hawaii with winds up to 35 kts. It will track to the west and is expected to dissipate in the North Pacific today before ito reaches Hawaii. No seismic enhancement in the North Pacific or at the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is expected at this time.
HURRICANE LALA (01C)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
HURR LALA 2026-08-16 00:00 UT 19.1N 156.5W 80 kts Southeast of Hawaii
TS Lala (TC 01C) continued today in the Northern Pacific over Hawaii with winds up to 80 kts. It is making landfall in Hawaii at the time of this writing. Extensive flooding is expected. A moderate earthquake could occur near Hawaii in the next several days. Seismic enhancement near the antipode in the South Indian Ocean is not expected.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of August 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 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 0310 0320 0330 C3.8 (August 16, 2026) 1.0E-03 *
Vanuatu M 6.1 03:20 UT
3750 0025 0033 0050 C1.2 (August 15, 2026) 6.6E-04 *
Balleny M 5.3 00:40 UT
3840 0809 0818 0820 C3.3 (August 15, 2026) 9.2E-04
Chiapas M 4.0 08:14 UT
3850 0921 0928 0931 C1.0 (August 15, 2026) 4.8E-04
Flores M 5.0 09:33 UT
Sumatra M 6.9 10:54 UT
3930 1330 1339 1341 C2.0 (August 15, 2026) 6.8E-04
Chiapas M 4.0 13:32 UT
Banda Sea M 4.5 13:56 UT
3950 1438 1449 1458 C3.2 (August 15, 2026) 2.4E-03
* Indicates variation in parameters from SWPC list
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet August 16 active August 17-18. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 6, high: 6, mid-latitude: 6, time of max k: 11:00-13:00 UT; Max k: 3 Global Kp 2.67 2000-2200, August 15; Sunspot Number: 111; Radio Flux: 117
The Hp30 index (GFZ) did not exceed 3.0 on August 14, 2026 except for a brief enhancement at 18:30-19:00 UT when it reached 4.0. No geomagnetic storms were observed.
Print 