January 27, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In general the most powerful earthquakes of the day moved from high latitudes
(see previous reports) to latitudes near the geomagnetic equator today.
These included an M 5.7 in Java and an M 5.6 in Papua New Guinea.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.7 in Java, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt in Java with IV in Kartosura, Wlingi; III in Kanigoro, Sumber Pucung, Prambanan, Malang, Jaten, Sewon, Yogakarta and II in Kuta, Bali.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Java at Madiun, Wonogiri, Pacitan, Ngawi, Ngasem, Sewon, Pugeran Maguwoharjo, Kesamben, Blitar, Melati, Batu, Niwen, Malang, Kambingan, Legian, Kuta, Banjar Batanpoh, Ubud, Banjar Taman, Sanur, Bali, Banjar Medura, Biaslantang Kaler, Maros and Biaslantang Kaler, Amed, Karengasem, Bali.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.6 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia with III in Wonosari, Yogyakarta.
EMSC reported the aftershock was felt with moderate intensity in Java at Pundong, "Yogyakarta, Pugeran Maguwoharjo, Sleman, Melati.
The last earthquake of M>=5.7 within about 200 km of today's Java epicenter
occurred on June 30, 2023 with M 5.8. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 5.8-6.4 shook the region of Java, Indonesia today.
BMG reported this earthquake of M 6.4 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia with VI in Pracimantoro, Wonogiri, Java, Pacitan; V in Wonogiri, Gunungkidul, Kebumen, Purworejo, Mageland, Kulon Progo, Bantul, Gunungkidul, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Pacitan, Ponorogo, Pasuruan, Mojokerto, Bojonegoro, Lombok.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.9 in Bali, Indonesia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Bali, Indonesia in Kuta.
News sources reported the quake injured at least 10 people while one person died of a heart attack during the quake.
The associated shaking caused minor damage to hundreds of residences, offices and health and school facilites
mainly in Yogyakarta and Central Java. No tsunami was expected or observed with
This earthquake may have been triggered by SFE from flare #6340 which was ending
simultaneously with this earthquake (see flare list below).
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in
Java since an M 6.1 on January 25, 2014. The last event of M>=6.4
in this area occurred more than 35 years ago." (June 30, 2023)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the
South Geomagnetic Pole; and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 27JAN2026 01:20:42 7.9S 111.4E MW=5.7 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.3 in western Texas. NEIC reported it was widely felt with maximum intensity V in Ira, Texas; III in Fluvanna, Big Spring, Lubbock, Johnson City, Snyder, Levelland, Meadow, and II in Odessa, Midland. It was also felt lightly as far as 700 km from the epicenter in Stigler, Oklahoma and Rye, Colorado.
EMSC reported strong shaking in western Texas at Snyder and Big Spring.
The last earthquake of M>=4.3 within about 200 km of today's event in Western
Texas occurred as an M 4.3 on October 12, 2025 and prior to that an M 4.8 on
February 28, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.8 in Western Texas. NEIC reported it was widely felt in Western Texas with maximum intensity V at Austin, Hermleigh, Tarzan and IV in San Angelo, Allen, Goodfellow, Bronte, Sterling City, Dryden, Lamesa, Ralls, Roscoe, Rtoan, Snyder, Dyess AFB, Midland, Ackerly, Big Spring, Garden City, Stanton, and Eunice among others. Lesser shaking was felt in Illinois, Kansas. New Mexico.
Like recent earthquakes in Texas this may have promoted by a Tropical Cyclone
off the west coast of southern Australia. This cyclone (Bianca) is currently
dissipating near 31N 100E in the antipodal region of today's Texas event.
The earthquake in western Texas was preceded by an unusual M 3.0 in the Chihuahua, Mexico region minutes earlier.
This event was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity IV in Roswell and III in Carlsbad and Alto , New Mexico and III in Texas at Alpine, Salt Fla5, El Paso, Pecos, and II in Chihuahua, Mexico.
An M 4.7 occurred today in northern Canada in the Arctic Ocean. It was not reported
felt in this remote area." (February 28, 2025)
This epicenter is located at the third node from Mindanao and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 10:22:38 32.6N 101.1W ML=4.3 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 19:04:15 31.5N 104.0W ML=2.4 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 16:42:45 31.6N 104.1W ML=2.1 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 17:48:11 31.6N 104.0W ML=2.0 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 26JAN2026 07:46:49 31.7N 104.5W ML=2.4 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Baja California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baja California, Mexico in Puebla.
O: 27JAN2026 04:36:27 32.5N 115.3W ML=2.5 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in North Island, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of North Island, New Zealand with III in Wellington at Kapiti and II in Lower Hutt.
EMSC reported light shaking in New Zealand at Kelburn, Kaori and Picton.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
GeoNet gave the following parameters for this event:
O: 27JAN2026 00:53:34 40.4S 174.8E MB=4.6 GEONET Felt with moderate to strong intensity in the area of Southern North Island, New Zealand and northern South Island. 5064 reports of felt events were made of which 3294 reported weak and 1647 light intensity with 113 reports of moderate shaking and 6 with strong and 0 severe and 4 with extreme intensity came from the area.
O: 27JAN2026 00:53:34 40.4S 174.8E MB=4.5 EMSC COOK STRAIT, NEW ZEALAND
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Papua New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Papua New Guinea with IV in Goroka and II in Kainantu and III in Kundiawa, Simbu, PNG.
This is the strongest earthquake in New Guinea within about 200 km of this
epicenter since an M 5.8 on September 5, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in Papua New Guinea. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II-III in Papua at Porgera Enga, Mount Hagen and Kiunga Fly River, PNG.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in New Guinea with
equal of larger magnitude was an M 6.3 on April 7, 2018 and more
recently an M 7.0 about 150 km northeast of this on April 2, 2023. Today's
event may be an aftershock of that event. At the time this summary noted:
"The last earthquake of M>=7.0 within about 200 km of today's epicenter occurred as an M 7.2
on September 8, 2002 and an M 7.0 on July 17, 1998, the only such regional
events in the past 35 years." (April 2, 2023)
This epicenter is located near the geomagnetic equator and was probably
promoted by strong geomagnetic stresses associated with the geomagnetic
storm of September 2-5." (September 5, 2023)
Like earthquakes in southern Alaska and Montana today this epicenter is located
at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan. It is also at the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Kamchatka and the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and near
the fourth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 26JAN2026 17:06:23 6.5S 143.6E MW=5.6 EMSC NEW GUINEA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
O: 26JAN2026 21:53:26 6.5S 143.6E mb=4.6 EMSC NEW GUINEA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Anchorage and II in Eagle River, Wasilla, Chugiak, Willow.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 14:38:18 61.5N 150.0W ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Western Montana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Montana in Dillon.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole;
the seventh node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka; the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Honshu, Japan and 105 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from these sources.
O: 26JAN2026 11:05:59 45.3N 112.6W ML=2.5 EMSC WESTERN MONTANA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Argentina at Coquimbo, Chile.
O: 26JAN2026 22:11:39 30.8S 70.1W MB=4.4 EMSC SAN JUAN, ARGENTINA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
A tropical cyclone may be forming in central Vanuatu. This system is currently at 14S 168E and tracking to the southeast with winds up to 28 kts. It could help promote some enhanced seismicity in central Vanuatu in the next two days. The antipode is at 14N 12W, an aseismic area of north Africa.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 26, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight when a flare occurred and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2030 0209 0221 0230 C2.9 (January 26, 2026) 3.4E-03
Southern Mid-Atlantic M 5.0 02:11 UT M 5.8 02:49 UT
2060 1220 1231 1240 C1.8 (January 26, 2026) 2.0E-03
Yellowstone M 2.1 12:31 UT
2070 1325 1339 1351 C8.8 (January 26, 2026) 8.3E-03
Pakistan M 4.1 13:44 UT
Sumatra M 3.4 13:51 UT
2080 1816 1825 1830 C1.6 (January 26, 2026) 1.3E-03
2090 2313 2322 2331 C5.0 (January 26, 2026) 4.2E-03
Coast of Oregon M 3.0 23:13 UT M 2.7 23:27 UT
Kermadec Is. M 5.2 23:32 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 27 minor storms January 28 active January 29. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 20, mid-latitude: 6, time of max AP: 12:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 115; Radio Flux: 153
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 26, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A series of moderate to moderately large earthquakes occurred today, mostly
at high latitudes. This change in global seismicity had been expected at this
time as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today. High latitudes saw A-index for
the day of 58 one of the strongest in the past month. This should help
promoted high latitude seismicity in the next day." (January 25, 2026)
The largest of today's events occurred in the South Atlantic (M 5.8) and
the Macquarie Island area south of Australia (M 5.7).
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8 in the Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Iwas
not reported felt in this area of the South Atlantic geomagnetic anomaly. An M 5.0 preceded the mainshock.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter since
an M 6.2 on June 25, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.2 in the Southern Mid-Atlantic area. It was not reported felt in this remote area.
This event may have been promoted by near-antipodal energies from Tropical Storm
Sepat - currently located near its antipode off eastern Honshu Japan.
...
It is also likely that the earthquake in the South Atlantic was promoted
by high tidal stresses with today's new moon as described in previous issues
of this summary:
...
This area of the South Atlantic Geomagnetic Anomaly does occasionally see
strong earthquakes. The last such occurred 10 years ago June 17, 2015 with
M 7.0 but others have occurred on February 16, 2005 (M 6.5); April 24, 1998 (M 6.3) and January 3, 1998 (M 6.2).
When the M 7.0 occurred 10 years ago, this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 6.9-7.0 today in the South Atlantic Ocean was apparently triggered
by tidal stresses. The earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon,
a prime time for tidal stresses. The new moon yesterday also reached maximum
near this Atlantic longitude, further evidence that this event was timed by
tidal stresses. This was enhanced by the geomagnetic effects as the epicenter
is located about 15 degrees south of the local geomagnetic equator." (June 17, 2015)
and
"Today's earthquake of M 6.4 in the South Atlantic was the strongest
event in the region (30-40S 0-20W) in more than 50 years (a similar event
of M 6.4 hit near this epicenter on June 3, 1981). Earthquakes of similar
size were reported in the region on Aug. 2, 1939 and Sept. 20, 1946. No
earthquakes of M>6.5 have ever been located in the region. While this
event was of a magnitude that could generate a minor landslide tsunami,
tsunamis are seldom generated from mid-ocean ridge earthquakes and no tsunami
watch is being suggested. If a tsunami should occur it is unlikely to be
damaging on the west Africa and east South America coasts." (February 16, 2005, June 25, 2025)
Today's event in the South Atlantic was likely promoted by the major geomagnetic storm of the past several days
as it occurred near local solar midnight in the Southern Atlantic geomagnetic
anomaly region.
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 02:49:39 35.8S 17.3W MW=5.8 EMSC SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
O: 26JAN2026 02:11:20 35.5S 16.7W mb=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
A similar M 5.8 occurred today in the Macquarie Island area south of Australia.
It was not felt in this remote epicentral region. The last event within about 250
km of this epicenter in the area of Macquarie Island with M>=5.7 occurred
with M 5.8 on November 29, 2025. The last event nearer to this epicenter
with M>=6 was an M 6.0 on May 7, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 6.0 in the Macquarie Islands today followed an M 5.4
to the southeast of this on May 5. This summary noted that event at the time as:
"An M 5.4 in the area west of the Macquarie Island area and an M 5.1 in the
Southwest Indian Ridge. An M 6.1 hit the area west of Macquarie Island
on March 20, 2021 about 400 km southeast of today's epicenter but the last of
similar or larger magnitude within about 200 km of today's epicenter occurred
as an M 5.7 on November 8, 2016 and prior to that as an M 5.5 on December 24, 2014.
The antipode of this event is at 57N 33W in the Reykjanes Ridge in the north Atlantic Ridge
south of Iceland. Some seismic enhancement in this region is possible following
today's event in the Macquarie Island area." (May 6, 2021, May 7, 2021)
...
This event followed the strongest solar flare observed by SWPC since an M4.4
on November 29, 2020 and was measured by SWPC at M3.9." (May 7, 2021)
This epicenter is at 142 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 26JAN2026 06:07:18 54.7S 143.8E MW=5.7 EMSC WEST OF MACQUARIE ISLAND
O: 26JAN2026 07:08:59 54.7S 143.8E mb=5.0 EMSC WEST OF MACQUARIE ISLAND
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Gansu, China was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Gansu, China in Lanzhou.
This earthquake occurred near local noon and was probably promoted by tidal
and/or geomagnetic stresses which tend to maximize near this hour. This is the
strongest earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter since an M 5.9
on December 18, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.2 hit the region of Gansu in northwestern China today. NEIC reported maximum intensity VIII in China near Linxia Chengguanzhen. An aftershock of M 4.6 was also widely felt in the area. Initial
reports indicate that at least 116 people were killed this event with more than 700
injured. Most damage occurred in Jishishan County. NEIC gave the event M 5.9. Severe damage was report to houses, roads and power
structures in the region as well as other infrastructure. Winter weather
conditions make finding survivors difficult and many will not survive the freezing temperatures
while confined under rubble. It is likely this was promoted by a severe geomagnetic
storm of the past several days following the X2.8 flare of December 14 as noted
in previous issues of this summary:
"The geomagnetic field saw disturbed conditions today. The AP level was 16. High latitudes saw minor storm conditions with AP 30. Middle latitudes were at disturbed conditions with AP 16. An X2.8 solar flare occurred between 17:00 and 18:00 UT today. This is the strongest solar flare since early September, 2017. Like the flares in early September today's flare was accompanied by a strong increase in seismicity in the region of eastern Mexico and Guatemala. The CME from this storm is expected to arrive around December 17-18 in the earth vicinity and may trigger a strong geomagnetic storm at that time which, in turn, may strongly promote global seismic activity in the several days after that time." (December 15, 2023)
The last earthquake with M>=6.2 in the area of Gansu or Qinghai, China within about
200 km of today's epicenter was an M 6.3-6.5 on April 26, 1990 nearly 35 years ago." (December 18, 2023)
Like this event in December, 2023 today's earthquake in Gansu, China followed
a major X2.0 Solar flare and major geomagnetic storm and was likely
promoted by those.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from the South Geomagnetic Pole; at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 26JAN2026 06:56:03 34.1N 103.4E MB=5.5 EMSC GANSU, CHINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in San Juan Islands, Washington State was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Juan Islands, Washington State with III in Lopez Island, and II in Anacortes, Freeland, Friday Harbor and Auburn and II in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada with lesser shaking in Washington at Oak Harbor, Bow and Coupeville.
An earthquake of M 2.6 hit south of this near Seattle earlier in the day. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity I-II in Washington at Port Orchard and Bainbridge Island.
O: 25JAN2026 23:58:08 47.6N 122.6W ML=2.6 EMSC SEATTLE-TACOMA AREA, WASHINGTO
O: 26JAN2026 00:00:00 47.6N 122.6W ML=2.1 EMSC SEATTLE-TACOMA AREA, WASHINGTON
O: 26JAN2026 04:04:27 48.5N 122.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SAN JUAN ISLANDS REG, WASHINGT
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tonga in Nuku'alofa, Tongatapu.
O: 26JAN2026 03:31:46 22.0S 174.9W MW=5.4 EMSC TONGA REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Baja California, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baja California, Mexico in Puebla and in Yuma, Arizona.
O: 25JAN2026 21:22:06 31.5N 115.6W ML=3.1 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 northeast of San Francisco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northeast of San Francisco with III i Sacramento and II i Sn Francisco, Pinole, Stockton, Pittsburg, Walnut Creek, Vacaville, Antioch, Hayward and in Gardnerville, Nevada.
This event occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses.
O: 25JAN2026 09:33:56 38.2N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 25JAN2026 09:33:56 38.2N 121.9W MD=3.0 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Java, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Java, Indonesia near Bambamglipuro.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Java, Indonesia in Pugeran, Melati and Yogyakarta.
O: 25JAN2026 08:51:25 8.9S 110.1E MB=4.9 EMSC JAVA, INDONESIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Western Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Turkey in Gordes, Akhisar, Balikesir, Saruhanli, Mustafakemalpasa, Usak, Bornova, Izmir, Bayrakli, Gorukle, Tire, Nilufer, Osmangazi, among others.
O: 26JAN2026 00:47:21 39.1N 28.3E MW=4.4 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 25JAN2026 09:29:37 39.2N 28.3E ML=3.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 25JAN2026 09:29:37 39.2N 28.3E ML=3.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Southern Greece was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Greece in Pyrgos, and Patra with a loud earthquake noise.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Peru at Marechal Thaumaturgo, Brazil where houses shook.
O: 25JAN2026 20:29:04 8.8S 74.8W MB=4.6 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Coquimbo, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Coquimbo, Chile in Vina del Mar.
O: 25JAN2026 19:24:39 31.4S 71.7W MW=4.7 EMSC OFFSHORE COQUIMBO, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
A tropical cyclone may be forming in central Vanuatu. This system is currently at 14S 168E and tracking to the southeast with winds up to 28 kts. It could help promoted some enhanced seismicity in central Vanuatu in the next two days. The antipode is at 14N 12W, an aseismic area of north Africa.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 25, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1890 0335 0341 0348 C2.1 (January 25, 2026) 1.6E-03
1900 0404 0413 0417 C2.5 (January 25, 2026) 1.6E-03
1920 0754 0801 0809 C1.7 (January 25, 2026) 1.5E-03
1930 1012 1030 1050 C6.3 (January 25, 2026) 6.8E-03
Taiwan M 4.7 10:49 UT
Southern Texas M 2.1 10:12 UT
1950 1536 1545 1552 C4.5 (January 25, 2026) 2.7E-03
South of Alaska M 4.0 15:41 UT
Central Turkey M 4.0 16:13 UT
1960 1659 1708 1714 C2.3 (January 25, 2026) 2.2E-03
1980 1714 1720 1723 C2.1 (January 25, 2026) 1.4E-03
Java M 2.7 17:17 UT
o. Alaska M 3.0 17:24 UT
1970 1745 1750 1754 C2.2 (January 25, 2026) 1.2E-03
Southern Greece M 4.1 17:56 UT
1990 2059 2108 2116 C4.9 (January 25, 2026) 4.5E-03
Java M 2.6 21:00 UT
Gulf of California M 3.2 21:16 UT
2000 2136 2143 2147 C7.9 (January 25, 2026) 4.1E-03
Kyrgyzstan M 4.3 21:54 UT
Volcano Is. M 5.0 22:02 UT
2010 2205 2213 2219 C3.1 (January 25, 2026) 2.5E-03
Kamchatka M 4.4 22:27 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 26 unsettled January 27 minor storms January 28. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 32, mid-latitude: 12, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 131; Radio Flux: 165
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 25, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The most unusual earthquake in the world today was an M 4.8 in the area of Antananarivo, Madagascar. NEIC reported it felt in Antananarivo and Faratsiho, Madagascar with intensity III-IV.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 300 km of this epicenter in
Madagascar since an M 5.5 on January 11, 2017 and prior to that an M 5.6 on April 21, 1991,
the only such events in the area in the past 35 years. An M 48 also occurred near this
epicenter on May 13, 2020. At the time of the event of January 11, 2017 this summary noted:
"An unusual earthquake of M 5.5 hit the region north of Madagascar today. NEIC
reported it was felt in Madagascar with intensity V in Antsirabe, Antananarivo; Miandrivazo, Toliary; Ifanadiana, Fianarantsoa; Moramanga and Toamasina Madagascar.
On January 7, 2017 this summary noted that the area north of Madagascar was
in the seismic crosshairs as it had the same distance relations to New Zealand and
Los Lagos, Chile as the moderately strong quakes of January 6 had. The note
had read:
"Today's earthquake and forecast map follows. Stippled White areas are
nodal distances (360/n, n an integer) from the earthquake of M 7.9 in
New Zealand of November 13, 2016 where promoted seismicity is
considered likely. Stippled Pink areas are nodal distances (360/n, n
an integer) from the earthquake of M 7.6 in Los Lagos, Chile of
December 25, 2016 where promoted seismicity is considered likely. Note
that the 103 lines from these intersect where the event in Vancouver
occurred today. The other such intersection is in a lightly seismic
area north of Madagascar." (January 7, 2017)
The last earthquake of M>=5.6 to occur within about 250 km of this Madagascar
epicenter was an M 5.6 on April 21, 1991. No earthquakes have hit with this
magnitude within 200 km of this epicenter since an event of similar size )M 5.5-5.6)
on April 4, 1975. No earthquakes of larger magnitude than today's have ever
been recorded in this region. Forecast 104270 had expected a moderate earthquake in the Madagascar area
in early January. The epicenter of this Madagascar earthquake is at 101-106 degrees
from many of the recent major global earthquakes including those in the
Solomon Islands, New Britain, Japan, and New Zealand making it prime territory
for triggering at a distance.
A series of upper strength solar flares has been occurring over the past two days.
The strongest have been in the B 5+ class ranges. The strongest today was a B5.0
flare (#4830). This flare reached maximum output within minutes of local solar
midnight in Madagascar several minutes before the earthquake there. As solar
activity at these levels has been absent for the past two weeks, the timing
of this flare and the subsequent earthquake in Madagascar is probably not
coincidental." (January 11, 2017)
Today's epicenter was sub-solar at the time of occurrence which was within minutes
of local noon. It appears to have been triggered by the strongest solar flare
of the day - a C4.1 (#1760) as it occurred at the maximum output of that flare. The timing and location of this event strongly
suggest geomagnetic and/or tidal triggering. Latitudes exactly sub-solar at
this day of the year are near 17-19 degrees South Latitude.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1760 0820 0831 0838 C4.1 (January 24, 2026) 3.7E-03
Madagascar M 4.8 08:32 UT
A further factor promoted this event in Madagascar at this time was Tropical
Cyclone Dudzai. This storm passed near this epicenter on January 20, 2026.
At the time this summary noted it as:
"Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 121W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to Los Angeles, California at 34N 118-119W around January 21-22, 2026 with winds up to 70 kts where it will dissiapate. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An 4.9 east of Los Angeles on January 19 at 34N 116W may have been promoted by antipodal effects of TC Dudzai. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date." (January 20-21, 2026)
Today's event in Madagascar is located at the third node (120 degrees) from Kamchatka and
at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 24JAN2026 08:32:19 19.2S 46.7E MB=4.8 EMSC MADAGASCAR
Two moderate earthquakes also occurred in the Gulf of California today with
M 4.1 and M 4.3. These were not reported felt in their respective epicentral
areas. They, like recent unusual earthquakes in Utah, Alberta and other western
North American epicenter occurred at 110-111 West longitude. The extreme
geomagnetic storm of the past several days commenced when this area was
at local solar noon and geomagnetic effects from that storm probably
helped trigger these two moderate earthquakes in the Gulf of California today.
This had been discussed in the previous issue of this summary in some detail
as:
(the event of M 4.8 in Utah) " is likely it was promoted by the strong geomagnetic storm of the last several
days as suggested in the previous issue of this summary:
"The current geomagnetic storm - the second strongest in at least 20 years
began to calm down today with Kp values reducing to Kp 4-5 as the day wore
on. Seismicity is generally dampened during strong geomagnetic storms
following the initial shock of the storm. This is thought to occur because
the randomness of the disturbance reduces telluric currents which can
trigger earthquakes. This appears to have occurred in the current situation.
In general, this is followed in the next day or two by a period in which
ionospheric ring currents strongly reform and in which moderate to strong
seismicity can be expected especially in areas which were at local solar
noon or midnight (western U.S) or noon (western Asia and eastern Europe)
at the time of commencement of the storm." (January 22, 20-26)
and
"In the current case, the storm began (according to GOES 18 and GOES 19 magnetometers
at 19:09 UT with a sudden negative shift in geomagnetic field strength and a major
decline in electron flux." (January 20, 2026)
Note that the longitude of this event in Utah at 110W is within minutes of
local solar noon - consistent with long-term triggering by the sudden commencement
of the geomagnetic storm." (January 22-24, 2026)
O: 24JAN2026 12:44:41 26.0N 110.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 13:37:19 27.9N 111.9W ML=4.3 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 20:51:38 27.6N 111.4W ML=3.4 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California near Susanville with III in Sacramento; II in Vacaville and I in Concord, California.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Southeastern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Alaska with V near Yakutat.
O: 25JAN2026 03:56:25 60.5N 139.8W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Southeastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Honshu, Japan near Tokyo at Naka Ibaraki.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Tokyo, Urayasu and Kawasaki Cities.
O: 25JAN2026 02:46:13 36.1N 140.0E ML=4.2 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Western Texas was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Texas with II in El Paso and Carlsbad, New Mexico.
O: 25JAN2026 00:38:07 32.3N 101.7W ML=2.2 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 25JAN2026 00:55:36 31.7N 104.5W Mw=3.8 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 25JAN2026 00:56:34 31.8N 103.8W ML=2.5 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
O: 24JAN2026 20:33:14 31.9N 102.4W ML=2.3 EMSC WESTERN TEXAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3 in the Andreanof Islands, Aleutians, Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Andreanof Islands, Aleutians, Alaska with intensity IV in Adak, Alaska.
O: 24JAN2026 21:25:39 51.9N 176.0W MW=5.3 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
NEIC reported light earthquakes continued to be felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Indio, California east of Los Angeles in Indio and Palm Desert.
O: 24JAN2026 20:38:40 33.5N 116.4W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 16:59:24 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.6 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 18:14:44 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 2.9, 2.6, 2.6 in Southern Utah were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Utah at Cedar City and Hurricane.
O: 24JAN2026 13:06:31 37.6N 113.0W ML=2.5 EMSC UTAH
O: 24JAN2026 13:23:14 37.6N 113.0W ML=2.6 EMSC UTAH
O: 24JAN2026 13:57:16 37.6N 113.0W ML=2.8 EMSC UTAH
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Western Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Nevada at Glenbrook.
O: 24JAN2026 12:50:07 38.2N 118.2W MW=3.4 EMSC NEVADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M in was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Western Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Turkey at Gordes, Bigadic, Akhisar, Kirkagac, Balikesir, Bornova, Gorukle, Nilufer, Osmangazi, Bursa, Beylikduzu.
O: 24JAN2026 07:34:22 39.2N 28.3E MW=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE LUANA (17S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC LUANA 2026-01-25 00:00 UT 17.3S 122.9E 65 kts North of western Australia
Tropical cyclone Luana (17S) continued today with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in northern Australia and central Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 58W is in the Leeward and Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 24, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1012 1030 1050 C6.3 (January 25, 2026) 6.8E-03
Taiwan M 4.7 10:49 UT
Southern Texas M 2.1 10:12 UT
1780 0551 0603 0611 C3.7 (January 24, 2026) 3.7E-03
1760 0820 0831 0838 C4.1 (January 24, 2026) 3.7E-03
Madagascar M 4.8 08:32 UT
1800 1831 1838 1841 C2.7 (January 24, 2026) 1.4E-03
1820 2005 2012 2021 C2.1 (January 24, 2026) 2.0E-03
1830 2109 2119 2124 C2.5 (January 24, 2026) 1.8E-03
Amdreanof Is. M 5.3 21:25 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 25-27. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 17, high: 25, mid-latitude: 12, time of max AP: 14:00 UT; Max AP: 5.3; Sunspot Number: 147; Radio Flux: 174
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 24, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today. High latitudes saw A-index for
the day of 58 - one of the strongest in the past month. This should help
promote high latitude seismicity in the next day.
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.0 and M 4.3 in Alberta, Canada were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Alberta, Canada with III in Grande Prairie, and II in Whitecourt and Grande Cache.
These epicenters which occurred near local solar noon today - like those in Wyoming yesterday occurred at a longitude
which was at local solar noon when the major geomagnetic storm hit several
days ago - was probably promoted by geomagnetic effects. Recent events
near this epicenter with M>=4 occurred on February 20, 2025 (M 4.7) and October 24, 2024 (M 4.6).
"A moderate earthquake also occurred today as an M 4.7 near Grande Cache, Alberta, Canada. NEIC reported it was felt in Alberta, Canada with intensity IV in Fairview, Grande Cache, Sexsmith, II in Fox Creek, Grande Prarie, Spirit River, and in British Columbia at Wembley, Fort Saint John, Prince George, and Tumbler with lesser shaking at Drayton Valley, Hinton, Alberta and in British Columbia at Dawaon and Quesnel.
This is the strong earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 5.0 to the northeast
on March 16, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today occurred as an M 4.5, 4.8 and 5.1
in Alberta, Canada. These were reported by NEIC with intensity V in Alberta in Grimshaw and IV in Peace River with II-III shaking in Falher, High Prairie, Fairview, Valleyview, Spirit River, Slave Lake, Fox Creek, Grand Prairie, Barrhead and Athabasca.
These events are apparently aftershocks of an M 5.3 which hit the same epicenter
on November 30, 2022. At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"The largest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.3 in Alberta, Canada.
The mainshock was felt widely in Alberta with maximum intensity IV in Peace River, Falher, High Prairie, Manning, Fairview, and III in Grimshaw, Valleyview, Slave Lake, Spirit River and Sexsmith.
It was followed by an aftershock of M 4.5 which was reported felt with intensity IV in Alberta at Slave Lake, Whitecourt and II-III in Peace River, High Prairie, Fairview, Grande Prairie, Athabasca, High Leven and Wood Buffalo and in Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Foreshocks of M 4.6 and 4.9 to the M 5.3 was felt in the same area as the mainshock with maximum intensity IV in Alberta at Peace River, High Prairie, Spirit River, Sexsmith, Slave Lake and in Dawson, BC.
This activity is a continuation of events which hit the area on November 22-24, 2022.
That included an M 4.5 which previous to the M 5.3 today was the largest
earthquake in the area in more than 35 years as noted in this summary at the time:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 in Alberta,
Canada. This event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and was
probably promoted by strong tidal stresses with today's new moon. These
maximize near local sola midnight. The mainshock was followed by an M 3.8
aftershock near Reno, Alberta. This is the strongest earthquake within about 200
km of this epicenter in Alberta, Canada in at least 35 years. Smaller quakes hit about
200 km to the south of this as an M 4.2 on January 12, 2016 and an M 4.0 on June 13, 2015." (November 30, 2022, March 16, 2023, February 20, 2025))
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from the South Geomagnetic Pole and at the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 23JAN2026 16:32:58 54.6N 118.3W MB=4.3 EMSC ALBERTA, CANADA
O: 23JAN2026 17:00:06 54.3N 118.5W mb=4.0 EMSC ALBERTA, CANADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Southern Colorado was not felt.
This epicenter was also near local solar noon when the geomagnetic storm
commenced. This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Taiwan and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 16:08:50 36.9N 104.9W ML=2.6 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported aftershocks of M>=2.5 continued in the Indio, California area east of Los Angeles today. NEIC reported they were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California at Palm Desert, Indio, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage.
O: 23JAN2026 23:25:58 33.5N 116.9W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 17:28:09 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 18:36:58 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 01:49:10 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 24JAN2026 05:49:09 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 north of Tokyo, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) north of Tokyo, Japan with II in Tokai, Ibaraki.
O: 23JAN2026 21:20:04 36.7N 140.4E MB=4.5 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAP
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Western Turkey was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Turkey with IV in Bandirma, Balikesir; III in Cinarcik, Yalova and II in Istanbul at Istamnbul and Buyukcekmece and Izmir.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Turkey at Bigadic, Gordes, Demirci, Akhisar, Zeytinliova, Kepsut, Balikesir, Simav, Soma among others.
Several moderate aftershocks were also reported felt in the area.
This epicenter is near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Mindanao and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 24JAN2026 07:34:22 39.2N 28.3E MW=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 23JAN2026 13:41:41 39.2N 28.1E ML=3.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 23JAN2026 21:24:38 39.2N 28.3E Mw=4.9 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Nevada in Yerington.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Honshu and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 24JAN2026 05:45:14 39.2N 119.1W ML=3.0 EMSC NEVADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in Big Creek.
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 24JAN2026 05:45:35 37.3N 119.0W ML=2.6 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Southern Italy was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Italy in Nicastro.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 14:20:53 39.0N 16.4E ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN ITALY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Southern Iran was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Iran in Kamerd, Bandar-e Asaluyeh.
The last earthquak in Iran within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=5.1
occurred on January 6, 2025 with M 5.2. The last of significantly larger magnitude
was an M 5.6 on June 25, 2022. At that time this summary noted:
"A moderate aftershock continued the series of events in southern Iran today. This earthquake of M 5.6 was felt with intensity V in Bandar-e Langeh, Iran and IV in the United Arab Emirates as well as in Qatar with intensity III.
The mainshock of M 5.6 was preceded by an M 4.1 reported felt in the same region with light intensity.
When the shock of M 5.3 hit the area on June 15, this summary noted:
"A series of moderate earthquakes occurred today in the region of southern Iran. NEIC reported they were felt with intensity V in Bandar-e Langeh, Hormozgan, Iran and IV in Abu Dhabi with lesser shaking in Ajman and Dubai, United Arab Emirates and in Qatar.
NEIC reported the earthquake of M 4.9 in Southern Iran was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Southern Iran in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
A foreshock of M 4.7 occurred earlier in the day. Most of this activity occurred
near local solar noon in Iran and may have been promoted by high tidal stresses ... " (June 15, 2022)
An M 5.8 hit north of this in southern Iran on March 16, 2022 but today's event of
M 5.5-5.6 is the strongest event in the current series." (June 25, 2022)
This epicenter is at the fifth node from Honshu, Japan and from Mindanao (72 degrees)
and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 23JAN2026 11:18:07 27.1N 53.3E MB=5.1 EMSC SOUTHERN IRAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE LUANA (17S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC LUANA 2026-01-24 00:00 UT 17.3S 122.9E 65 kts North of western Australia
Tropical cyclone Luana (17S) continued today with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in northern Australia and central Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 58W is in the Leeward and Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 23, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1510 0016 0024 0030 C4.2 (January 23, 2026) 2.8E-03
1520 0111 0119 0128 C3.2 (January 23, 2026) 2.7E-03
1530 0129 0140 0151 C3.4 (January 23, 2026) 4.8E-03
Indian Ridge M 4.9 01:41 UT
Northern California M 2.7 01:53 UT
1580 0929 0936 0949 C1.8 (January 23, 2026) 2.1E-03
1590 1005 1015 1022 C2.5 (January 23, 2026) 2.4E-03
1600 1259 1314 1326 C3.3 (January 23, 2026) 4.6E-03
1670 2218 2329 0053 C5.9 (January 23, 2026) 4.9E-02
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 24 unsettled January 25-26. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 28, high: 58, mid-latitude: 17, time of max AP: 11:00 UT; Max AP: 7.3; Sunspot Number: 195; Radio Flux: 180
A moderate geomagnetic storm occurred today. High latitudes saw A-index for
the day of 58 one of the strongest in the past month. This should help
promoted high latitude seismicity in the next day.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 23, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The largest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.2 in Kamchatka, Russia. It occurred near
local solar midnight and was probably promoted by effects from the major geomagnetic storm of the past several days.
It was reported to have been lightly felt with intensity up to V in Kamchatka, Russia at Vilyuchinsk.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate intensity in Vilyuchinsk, Paratunka, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Kamchatka, Russia.
This event is the strongest in the region of Kamchatka since an M 7.8 on September 18, 2025
more than four months ago. That event seemed to end the major series
in Kamchatka that began in late July, 2025.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (51.4 degrees) from Honshu, Japan
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 02:35:34 51.8N 158.6E MB=4.4 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 22JAN2026 12:42:35 51.9N 158.5E Mw=6.2 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 22JAN2026 13:58:52 51.9N 158.7E mb=4.4 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
A highly unusual moderate earthquake of M 4.7 hit northeastern Utah today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Utah at Mantua; III in Coalville, Provo, Hanksville, Salt Lake City, Heber City, Peoa, Henefer, Hooper, Park City, Farmington, Lewiston, Mountain Home, Eden, Logan, Ogden, Kaysville, Roy, Smithfield and in Evanston, Wyoming, and in Fruita, Colorado. It was also felt in Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona.
EMSC reported a notable rumble accompanied the earthquake which was flet with
strong shaking in Utah at Silver summit, Mount Olympus, Woods Cross, Canyon Rim, Bountiful, Salt Lake City, West Valley City, Holladay, Cottonwood Heights, Bountiful, South Salt Lake, Murray, Layton and Midvale among others.
A foreshock of M 2.4 occurred two minutes befor the mainshock but was not reported felt.
The mainshock was followed by an aftershock of M 3.0 near Evanston, Wyoming. It was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity III in Salt Lake City, Kamas and II i Syracuse, Hyrum, Park City and in Evanston, Wyoming.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter since
at least 1990. Earthquakes about 200 km to the north occurred in September, 2017
with maximum magnitude M 5.3 on September 2, 2017. An M 4.7 also occurred about 200 km
to the southwest of today's epicenter on April 17, 2003. Today's event
is therefore a significant regional earthquake.
It is likely it was promoted by the strong geomagnetic storm of the last several
daysi as suggested in the previous issue of this summary:
"The current geomagnetic storm - the second strongest in at least 20 years
began to calm down today with Kp values reducing to Kp 4-5 as the day wore
on. Seismicity is generally dampened during strong geomagnetic storms
following the initial shock of the storm. This is thought to occur because
the randomness of the disturbance reduces telluric currents which can
trigger earthquakes. This appears to have occurred in the current situation.
In general, this is followed in the next day or two by a period in which
ionospheric ring currents strongly reform and in which moderate to strong
seismicity can be expected especially in areas which were at local solar
noon or midnight (western U.S) or noon (western Asia and eastern Europe)
at the time of commencement of the storm." (January 22, 20-26)
and
"In the current case, the storm began (according to GOES 18 and GOES 19 magnetometers
at 19:09 UT with a sudden negative shift in geomagnetic field strength and a major
decline in electron flux." (January 20, 2026)
Note that the longitude of this event in Utah at 110W is within minutes of
local solar noon - consistent with long-term triggering by the sudden commencement
of the geomagnetic storm.
Like earthquakes today in Iceland (M 4.5) and southern California this epicenter
is near the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 22JAN2026 14:49:20 40.9N 110.8W ML=4.6 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 14:47:30 40.9N 110.9W ML=2.4 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 14:54:16 40.9N 110.8W MD=2.0 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 18:22:17 40.9N 110.9W ML=3.0 EMSC UTAH
The storm triggered an immediate seismic reaction at the near solar noon area
of northern Nevada. An M 3.5 earthquake occurred near Empire, Nevada precisely
with the commencement of this storm at 19:09 UT. It was reported felt with
intensity II in Gardnerville, Nevada,
An M 4.1 was recorded in Chiapas, Mexico 7 minutes and 11 seconds after the
mainshock in Utah. This event at 29 degrees from Utah was consistent with
triggering by the PP- seismic wave which arrived in Chiapas at the time of
the M 4.0 there.
This epicenter is at 104 degrees from Hokkaido and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 22JAN2026 14:56:31 15.3N 94.3W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE CHIAPAS, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Alaska Peninsula was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Alaska Peninsula in Chignik Lagoon.
This event may have been promoted by a moderately strong solar flare the largest
of the day (C9.5 #1450) which began near the time of this earthquake. NEIC
give parameters for this flare as:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1450 1943 1954 2000 C9.5 (January 22, 2026) 6.5E-03
Mendoza, Argentina M 4.4 19:41 UT
Southern Alaska M 4.2 19:39 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 19:52 UT
Central Mid-Atlantic M 4.7 19:59 UT
O: 22JAN2026 21:22:30 54.1N 159.7W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 23JAN2026 03:49:31 54.1N 159.7W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
O: 22JAN2026 19:38:49 54.4N 159.9W MW=5.2 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
An M 4.4 also occurred today off the coast of northern California. This event
occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour. The epicenter occurred
at the same location as an M 4.4 off northern California of January 19, 2026.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in California at Arcata, II in McKinleyville and Alamdea and lesser shaking in Trinidad, Fortuna, Rio Dell and Crescent City.
At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"A moderate earthquake which was probably promoted by SFE
from this flare occurred off the coast of Northern California with M 4.2.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Northern California
at Loleta, Carlotta and Eureka and II in Ferndale, Brookings, Fortuna, Hydesville and in O'Brien, Oregon.
This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of northern California
since an M 4.5 on July 29, 2025 near this epicenter and is therefore a
significant regional earthquake. The association with the X1.9 solar flare
is most likely not a coincidence. The M 4.5 on July 29 was closely connected to the
M 8.7 in Kamchatka of the same day but occurred several minutes before that
event. It was summarized in this report at the time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today off the coast of northern California.
This event occurred about 6 minutes prior to the M 8.8 in Kamchatka. It may
be related to slow slippage in Kamchatka prior to the mainshock or to an
unidentified source triggering both.
It was widely felt with intensity II in northern California in Saratoga, Occidental, Eureka, McKinleyville, Arcata, Bayside, Ferndale.
The last earthquake off the coast of California with magnitude of M>4.5 was an M 5.3
on December 15, 2024, an aftershock of the M 7.0 there on December 5, 2024, so
the coincidental timing with the M 8.8 in Kamchatka could not be such
a coincidence after all. The distance between Northern California epicenter
and Kamchatka is 51 degrees (node 7). Travel time for a p-phase between
these two epicenter is about 9 minutes so no seismic data would have traversed
this distance in the 6.5 minutes between these two earthquakes." (July 29, 2025)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic pole and at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources." (January 19, 2026)
Today's epicenter is also at the seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 22JAN2026 07:28:29 40.6N 125.3W MB=4.4 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 22JAN2026 07:28:29 40.6N 125.3W MW=4.3 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 01:53:10 40.7N 125.1W MD=2.7 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Louisiana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Louisiana in Kountze, Texas.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Nicaragua was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Nicaragua in Managua.
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and may have been promoted by energy associated with that source.
O: 22JAN2026 11:13:43 11.9N 86.8W ML=4.1 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NICARAGUA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Iceland was not felt the area of the epicenter.
O: 22JAN2026 10:28:23 64.7N 17.4W MB=4.5 EMSC ICELAND
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao and like the events in Southern
California today at the sixth node from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
NEIC reported aftershocks in the area east of Los Angeles, California continued to be felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Borrego Springs, Thermal, San Diego, Rancho Mirage and Coachella.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 22JAN2026 08:10:25 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 22JAN2026 18:45:25 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 01:03:49 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 23JAN2026 01:08:26 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Eastern Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Eastern Los Angeles, California in Riverside.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 23JAN2026 03:33:43 34.1N 117.5W ML=2.4 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE LUANA (17S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC LUANA 2026-01-23 00:00 UT 16.6S 122.2E 70 kts North of western Australia
Tropical cyclone Luana (17S) continued today with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in northern Australia and central Indonesia is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 58W is in the Leeward and Windward Islands of the eastern Caribbean which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 22, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1380 1033 1049 1100 C8.3 (January 22, 2026) 8.5E-03
Iceland M 4.5 10:28 UT
1390 1218 1223 1230 C2.3 (January 22, 2026) 1.7E-03
Kamchatka M 6.2 12:42 UT
1410 1702 1707 1715 C4.3 (January 22, 2026) 2.9E-03
Queen Charlotte Is. M 3.4 17:01 UT
1420 1733 1745 1750 C2.6 (January 22, 2026) 2.5E-03
1440 1934 1941 1943 C1.9 (January 22, 2026) 1.8E-03
1450 1943 1954 2000 C9.5 (January 22, 2026) 6.5E-03
Mendoza, Argentina M 4.4 19:41 UT
Southern Alaska M 4.2 19:39 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 19:52 UT
Central Mid-Atlantic M 4.7 19:59 UT
1470 2116 2122 2126 C2.3 (January 22, 2026) 1.5E-03
1480 2229 2234 2239 C1.9 (January 22, 2026) 1.2E-03
1490 2345 2352 2356 C2.6 (January 22, 2026) 1.6E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 23-24 unsettled January 25. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 19, high: 16, mid-latitude: 15, time of max AP: 22:00 UT; Max AP: 4.3; Sunspot Number: 206; Radio Flux: 194
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 22, 2026 at 23:13:10 UT (#260122B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 22, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
UPDATE:
A strong M 6.2 occurred in Kamchatka on January 22, 2026. It occurred near
local solar midnight and was probably promoted by effects from the major geomagnetic storm of the past several days.
This event is the strongest in the region of Kamchatka since an M 7.8 on September 18, 2025
more than four months ago. That event seemed to end the major series
in Kamchatka that began in late July, 2025.
O: 22JAN2026 12:42:35 51.9N 158.5E MW=6.2 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
Significant earthquakes today in the western U.S. - in the Alaska Peninsula (M 5.2-5.5) and
in northern Utah near the Wyoming border (M 4.7) also followed the end of
the geomagnetic storm. More on these events in the next summary.
O: 22JAN2026 14:49:21 40.9N 110.9W MW=4.7 EMSC UTAH
O: 22JAN2026 19:38:50 54.3N 160.0W MW=5.2 EMSC SOUTH OF ALASKA
An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
and much of the western U.S. was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promote that event. The timing at local solar midnight of this flare suggest
strong triggering in likely from the Rocky Mountains to the west coast
of the U.S. in the next several days. SWPC gave the following parameters
for this flare:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.3 08:30 UT
The current geomagnetic storm - the second strongest in at least 20 years
began to calm down today with Kp values reducing to Kp 4-5 as the day wore
on. Seismicity is generally dampened during strong geomagnetic storms
following the initial shock of the storm. This is thought to occur because
the randomness of the disturbance reduces telluric currents which can
trigger earthquakes. This appears to have occurred in the current situation.
In general, this is followed in the next day or two by a period in which
ionospheric ring currents strongly reform and in which moderate to strong
seismicity can be expected especially in areas which were at local solar
noon or midnight (western U.S) or noon (western Asia and eastern Europe)
at the time of commencement of the storm. This is consistent with the
forecast for this time first published in this summary on January 4, 2026 as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands." (January 4, 2026)
with a follow-up on January 15 as:
" ... observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date (January 22)." (January 15-20, 2026)
and in the previous summary as:
"An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promoted that event." (January 20-21, 2026)
Light aftershocks continued today in the swarm east of Los Angeles, California
Many of these were lightly felt with intensity III in Palm Springs, Pala and Murrieta, California.
The strongest was an M 4.3-4.4 which occurred near local solar midnight.
This was reported in the previous issue of this summary as:
"Earthquakes continued today in the swarm east of Los Angeles. The strongest
of these was an M 4.3 which was widely felt near local solar midnight. NEIC
reported it was felt with intensity IV in Thousand Palms, Indian Wells, San Clemente, Coachella, Indio; III in Yorba Linda, Thermal, Big Bear City, Redlands Pala, Crestline, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, Menifee, Temecula, Winchester, La Quinta, Moreno Valley, El Cajon, Morongo Valley, Rancho Santa Margarita, Corona, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, among others.
EMSC reported tis event with M 4.4 was felt with a loud rumble in Southern California at
Indio, Bermuda Dunes, Indian Wells, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Joshua Tree among others.
This may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 1230 (M3.4) which peaked
While this epicenter was within minutes of local solar midnight.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.4 08:30 UT
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from that source." (January 21, 2026)
Today's activity is also near the sixth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21JAN2026 08:30:06 33.9N 116.2W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 22JAN2026 05:00:05 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 08:34:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 09:08:18 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 12:17:17 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 13:31:15 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 18:16:57 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 19:49:16 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 21:49:29 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 22:19:28 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
An M 4.4 also occurred today off the coast of northern California. This event
occurred near local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour. The epicenter occurred
at the same location as an M 4.4 off northern California of January 19, 2026.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in California at Arcata, II in McKinleyville and Alamdea and lesser shaking in Trinidad, Fortuna, Rio Dell and Crescent City.
At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"A moderate earthquake which was probably promoted by SFE
from this flare occurred off the coast of Northern California with M 4.2.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Northern California
at Loleta, Carlotta and Eureka and II in Ferndale, Brookings, Fortuna, Hydesville and in O'Brien, Oregon.
This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of northern California
since an M 4.5 on July 29, 2025 near this epicenter and is therefore a
significant regional earthquake. The association with the X1.9 solar flare
is most likely not a coincidence. The M 4.5 on July 29 was closely connected to the
M 8.7 in Kamchatka of the same day but occurred several minutes before that
event. It was summarized in this report at the time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today off the coast of northern California.
This event occurred about 6 minutes prior to the M 8.8 in Kamchatka. It may
be related to slow slippage in Kamchatka prior to the mainshock or to an
unidentified source triggering both.
It was widely felt with intensity II in northern California in Saratoga, Occidental, Eureka, McKinleyville, Arcata, Bayside, Ferndale.
The last earthquake off the coast of California with magnitude of M>4.5 was an M 5.3
on December 15, 2024, an aftershock of the M 7.0 there on December 5, 2024, so
the coincidental timing with the M 8.8 in Kamchatka could not be such
a coincidence after all. The distance between Northern California epicenter
and Kamchatka is 51 degrees (node 7). Travel time for a p-phase between
these two epicenter is about 9 minutes so no seismic data would have traversed
this distance in the 6.5 minutes between these two earthquakes." (July 29, 2025)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic pole and at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources." (January 19, 2026)
Today's epicenter is also at the seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 22JAN2026 07:28:29 40.6N 125.3W MB=4.4 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Louisiana was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Louisiana in Kountze, Texas.
This epicenter is at the sixth node from the North geomagnetic Pole; the fifth node
from Kamchatka and the fourth node from Hokkaido, Japan.
O: 22JAN2026 06:46:55 32.1N 93.3W ML=2.6 EMSC LOUISIANA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in Puget Sound, Washington was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Puget Sound, Washington with III in Renton, Tacoma, Federal Way, Kent and II in Carnation, Issaquah, and Monroe.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Maple Heights and Lake Desire, Washington.
O: 22JAN2026 04:22:05 47.6N 122.0W ML=2.9 EMSC PUGET SOUND REGION, WASHINGTON
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Guam was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guam with IV in Talofofo; III in Merizo, Santa Rita, Barrigada, Tamuning, Hagatna, Yigo, Mangilao, Dededo.
EMSC reported this earthquake was mild in Hagatna Village and Santa Rita Village, Guam with an earthquake noise.
This event is at the fifth node from Yukon, Canada and from the
North Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by constructive energy
interference from those two sources.
O: 22JAN2026 03:53:14 13.3N 145.4E MB=4.9 EMSC GUAM REGION
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.1 in the Volcano Islands, Japan.
It was not reported felt in this region. This event occurred near local solar
midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
The last earthquake in within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.1
occurred as an M 6.1 on February 12, 2024 but the last of larger magnitude
in this region was an M 6.3 on August 16, 2018. At the time this summary noted:
"A pair of strong earthquakes in the Volcano Islands of M 6.0 and 6.3-6.4 today were
likely triggered by the passage of Typhoon Soulik over the epicenter today. Typhoon Soulik has winds up to 80 kts.
This storm is expected to pass to the northwest over the next several days reaching Kyushu, Japan around
August 21. This is a classic example of weather-related
seismic triggering. Several strong storms have battered the Volcano Islands
in recent days, the last was TS Leepi which passed over these epicenters
August 12." (August 16, 2018)
This epicenter is at the sixth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and was
probably promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21JAN2026 16:37:46 23.2N 142.6E MW=6.1 EMSC VOLCANO ISLANDS, JAPAN REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Guerrero, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guerrero, Mexico with I-II in Tlalnepantla and Mexico City.
O: 21JAN2026 16:02:26 18.5N 101.0W MB=4.7 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 north of San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of north of San Francisco, California with II in Santa Rosa, Vallejo, San Rafael and Pleasanton.
O: 22JAN2026 00:46:37 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 21JAN2026 14:03:50 38.4N 122.6W MD=2.7 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Moro Gulf, Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Moro Gulf, Mindanao, Philippines with II in Midsayap.
O: 21JAN2026 12:59:22 6.6N 123.9E MB=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 21JAN2026 08:49:02 6.4N 123.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 11:55:58 6.4N 123.9E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.7 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Homer, II in Anchor Point and Eagle River.
O: 21JAN2026 09:31:02 59.5N 150.8W ML=3.7 EMSC KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
O: 21JAN2026 13:52:32 59.6N 150.2W ML=3.4 EMSC KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
GeoNet reported the following parameters for an earthquake south of South Island today:
O: 21JAN2026 06:47:22 48.4S 165.7E MB=4.4 GEONET Felt weakly by 2 and lightly by 0 and with severe intensity by 0 respondents in Southern South Island and in Snares Island, New Zealand.
O: 21JAN2026 06:47:22 48.4S 165.7E ML=4.4 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 4.5, M 4.0, M 4.2, M 4.0, M 4.6 in Western Turkey were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of western Turkey at Gordes, Akhisar, Salihli, Turgutlu, Usak, Balikesir, Manisa, Bergama, Gorukle, Tire, Menemen, Osmangazi, Buca, Bursa, Torbali, Pendik, Bigadic, and Sultanbeyli among others.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and at the fourth node from Mindananao and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 21JAN2026 15:11:50 39.1N 28.3E MB=4.5 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 20:11:37 39.1N 28.3E ML=4.2 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 23:24:58 39.1N 28.3E ML=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 20:28:56 39.2N 28.3E mb=4.5 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
O: 21JAN2026 23:12:53 39.2N 28.3E ML=4.0 EMSC WESTERN TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Poland was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Poland in Lubin, Polkowice, Rudna, Olesnica.
O: 21JAN2026 09:16:36 51.4N 16.2E ML=3.5 EMSC POLAND
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE 16P
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 16P 2026-01-22 00:00 UT 25.2S 172.4E 50 kts Fiji/Loyalty Islands
Tropical cyclone 16P continued today South of Vanuatu near the Fiji and Loyalty Islands with winds up to 50 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in Fiji and Loyalty Islands is possible at this time. The antipode at 25N 8W is off the coast of northern Africa in the Northern Mid-Atlantic and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the area north of Australia and near Sumbawa, Indonesia. This system is currently located at 11S 119E where seismicity may be enhanced at this time. The antipode at 11N 61W is north of Venezuela near the Trinidad and Tobago Islands which often show moderate seismic triggering from antipodal cyclones.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 21, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1190 0005 0009 0012 C2.1 (January 21, 2026) 8.9E-04
Southern Texas M 2.0 00:05 UT
Mindanao M 4.0 00:14 UT
Owen Fracture Zone M 5.0 00:27 UT
1200 0115 0135 0158 M1.1 (January 21, 2026) 2.2E-02
Moro Gulf M 4.8 01:26 UT M 5.4 01:33 UT
Utah M 2,3 01:28 UT
1210 0443 0448 0450 C2.0 (January 21, 2026) 9.5E-04
South Sandwich Is. M 5.2 04:54 UT
1220 0502 0513 0523 C5.1 (January 21, 2026) 4.5E-03
Moro Gulf M 4.7 05:14 UT
Southern Texas M 2.3 05:20 UT
Sumatra M 3.9 05:18 UT
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.3 08:30 UT
1240 1149 1157 1208 C2.2 (January 21, 2026) 2.6E-03
Portland, Oregon M 2.0 11:49 UT
1250 1209 1212 1220 C3.6 (January 21, 2026) 2.3E-03
1290 1624 1633 1640 C2.3 (January 21, 2026) 2.1E-03
Volcano Is. M 6.2 16:37 UT
1310 1826 1834 1839 C7.0 (January 21, 2026) 6.0E-03
Baja California M 4.1 18:39 UT
1320 1905 1910 1915 C3.2 (January 21, 2026) 2.0E-03
1330 1929 1938 1945 C8.6 (January 21, 2026) 6.0E-03
Greenland Sea M 3.6 19:36 UT
1340 1947 1955 2002 C7.6 (January 21, 2026) 6.5E-03
Southern California M 2.1 19:49 UT
Banda Sea M 4.0 19:55 UT
1360 2047 2052 2058 C3.2 (January 21, 2026) 2.1E-03
Michoacan M 3.7 20:57 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 22 active January 23 unsettled January 24. Solar M-flare chance: 60% X-class: 15% proton storm: 45%
AP Indicies: global: 73, high: 95, mid-latitude: 45, time of max AP: 04:00 UT; Max AP: 8 ; Sunspot Number: 166; Radio Flux: 188
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 21, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A new determination of the position of the North Geomagnetic Pole has been released by
the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) and the British Geological Survey (BGS).
This summary will use the new position at 86.38N 164.06E from this point on
replacing the previous model pole at 85.7N 139.3E in distance calculations.
The change is only slight moving the pole by about 35 km per year at current
pole migration velocities. The current pole is near the north rotational pole
north of Kamchatka, Russia. In some models the position of the geomagnetic
pole affects locations of geomagnetically triggered earthquakes and this
will revise these expectations as published in this summary.
An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promote that event.
The Planetary AP reached 143 today with high latitude at 174 and middle latitude at 91.
Similar sized storms occurred on October 29, 2003 (AP 189); July 27, 2004 (AP 162); November 8-10, 2004 (AP 189, 120, 181);
and May 11, 2024 (AP 273). The last geomagnetic storm approaching the
intensity of today's occurred on November 12, 2025 (AP 127).
Major earthquakes followed these storms on November 17, 2003 (M 7.8 Rat Islands); Sumatra (M 9.0+ December 26, 2004 and M 8.0 South of New Zealand December 23, 2024).
When the storm of May, 2024 occurred this summary noted:
"A severe geomagnetic storm occurred today with high latitude AP 146 and Planetary
AP 118. KP index as at its highest possible value of 9 around May 10 at 20:00 through
May 11 at 04:00 UT. This appears to be the most disturbed the earth's geomagnetic field
has been in the current solar cycle. It also includes a proton stor which together
should reduce sort-term seismicity but enhance seismicity around May 14-20.
It is likely that a major earthquake will occur in the next 10 days most
likely in the regions near the geomagnetic equator and/or at high auroral
latitudes. Effects with the X5.4 flare today are most likely in the Kurils,
Kamchatka, western Alaska and the Tonga/Vanuatu/Fiji/New Zealand areas
of the South Pacific. The last time a severe storm hit the geomagnetic
field was March 24, 2024 (high latitude AP 100, Planetary AP 64) when this summary noted:
"The last time high latitude AP was at 100 or greater was on November 4, 2021 when it reached 131. Planetary AP was 69 on that date.
"The last time high latitude AP exceeded 120 was on December 15, 2006 when it hit AP 120 with global AP at 104.
The earthquake in 2006 was followed several days later by an M 7.0 in Taiwan. The last time the AP disturbance at high latitudes exceeded today's index of 131 was on September 11-12 (AP 131 and 136).
The storm in September, 2005 was accompanied by an M 7.7 in New Ireland and an M 6.4 in the Nias region of Indonesia.
This history suggests that a major earthquake is likely in the next several
days. In general, strong geomagnetic storms see major earthquakes at the time
of the storm's commencement or about 4-5 days later as the ionospheric ring
currents at high latitude and about 10 degrees from the geomagnetic equator
reemerge after the disturbance. This often includes a strong to major
earthquake. At this time such an event appears most likely near the geomagnetic
equator or at high latitudes ... (November 5, 2021, March 25, 2024, May 11, 2024)
and
"As the geomagnetic storm wound down today, the expected resurgence of global
seismicity began. This started with an M 6.4 off the coast of Guatemala and Chiapas,
Mexico. Then near local solar noon an earthquake of M 4.9-5.0 occurred in Baja
California. This was accompanied by a number of foreshocks and moderate
aftershocks. This was followed by an M 5.9 in the Kermadec Islands, New
Zealand. Each of these had been expected as a consequence of recent
X-class solar flares." (May 13, 2024)
Earthquakes continued today in the swarm east of Los Angeles. The strongest
of these was an M 4.3 which was widely felt near local solar midnight. NEIC
reported it was felt with intensity IV in Thousand Palms, Indian Wells, San Clemente, Coachella, Indio; III in Yorba Linda, Thermal, Big Bear City, Redlands Pala, Crestline, Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, Menifee, Temecula, Winchester, La Quinta, Moreno Valley, El Cajon, Morongo Valley, Rancho Santa Margarita, Corona, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, among others.
EMSC reported tis event with M 4.4 was felt with a loud rumble in Southern California at
Indio, Bermuda Dunes, Indian Wells, Coachella, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Joshua Tree among others.
This may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 1230 (M3.4) which peaked
While this epicenter was within minutes of local solar midnight.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.4 08:30 UT
These epicenters are at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 21JAN2026 08:30:06 33.9N 116.2W ML=4.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 06:15:35 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:02:00 33.9N 116.1W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:18:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:49:34 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 08:20:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 11:05:58 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 14:34:58 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 16:17:23 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 18:48:10 33.9N 116.2W Mw=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 19:22:38 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 19:32:54 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 20:10:41 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 23:24:57 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 23:52:24 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 00:24:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 21JAN2026 04:01:06 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7-2.8 in South Carolina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of South Carolina with III in Elgin, Columbia, Rembert, Hoopkins, Lugoff, Lexington, Cassatt, Irmo, Blythewood, Camden and in North Carolina at Charlotte. It was felt with light intensity as far as Florida,
EMSC reported loud rumblings in South Carolina at Elgin, Blythewood, Hopkins, Forest Acres.
The last earthquake with M>=2.7 in South Carolina within about 200 km of this epicenter
was recorded by NEIC as an M 3.0 and M 2.9 on August 23, 2025. The last within
about 150 km was an M 2.7 on March 9, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"A M 2.8 earthquake was lightly felt in South Carolina today.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 2.8 in South Carolina was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of South Carolina in Elgin.
This continues a series in the area which continued throughout much of the year 2023. It is the
strongest earthquake in this area in more than a year - since an M 2.9 on February 18, 2023.
This series began in December, 2021 with an M 3.6. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
"A series of earthquakes also occurred today in South Carolina. The largest of these was an M 3.3-3.6 (EMSC).
NEIC reported the mainshock at M 3.3 was felt with intensity IV in South Carolina
with intensity IV in Lugoff and Elgin and III in Columbia, Camden, Rembert, Ridgeway, Blythewood.
An aftershock of M 2.5 was felt in South Carolina at Lugoff, Elgin, Columbia, Camden, Ridgeway, Blythewood, and other areas of South Carolina.
The only earthquake of M>3.6 in South Carolina in the past 10 years was an M 4.1
on February 15, 2014 and prior to that an M 4.4 on November 11, 2002 and August 21, 1992
also with M 4.4." (December 28, 2021, March 9, 2024)
Triggering of today's event by the geomagnetic storm which was at its height
when the earthquake occurred is possible.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the Noth Geomagnetic Pole and
at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 11:33:16 34.2N 80.7W ML=2.8 EMSC SOUTH CAROLINA
A series of moderate earthquake today occurred in the Owen Fracture Zone south of Yemen today.
These event of M 5.3, 4.6, 5.0 were not reported felt in this epicentral area.
They may have been promoted by the geomagnetic storm which was maximized
in the time period that these earthquakes occurred.
These epicenters are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka; the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Mindanao and 104 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted byenergy from those sources.
O: 21JAN2026 00:27:05 14.2N 53.8E MB=5.0 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
O: 20JAN2026 22:19:26 14.3N 53.9E mb=4.6 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
O: 21JAN2026 00:58:09 14.3N 53.8E mb=4.6 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
O: 21JAN2026 01:05:49 14.3N 53.8E Mw=5.3 EMSC OWEN FRACTURE ZONE REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Argentina in Cordoba.
EMSC reported it was felt strongly in Argentina at Rio Ceballos, Cordoba.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and at 102 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 21JAN2026 07:02:50 23.9S 66.7W MB=4.5 EMSC JUJUY, ARGENTINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Tanzania may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tanzania near Mbumi.
This epicenter is located at 100-105 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Honshu, Japan and the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and Mindanao
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 17:11:38 8.3S 39.3E MW=5.4 EMSC TANZANIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii with II in Mountain View, Waikoloa and Honomu.
O: 20JAN2026 15:30:25 19.2N 155.4W ML=3.3 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Oaxaca, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Oaxaca, Mexico with intensity in Xadani, III in Hualtulco, Veinte de Noviembre, Chipas and in Mtxico City area at Tlalnepantla, Mexico City and Tepotzotlan.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Honshu, Japan and the third node (120 degrees) from
the South Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by energy from those
sourcs.
O: 20JAN2026 11:30:14 15.9N 95.5W MW=5.0 EMSC OFFSHORE OAXACA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tonga in American Samoa.
This epicenter is at 102-103 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and the sixth node (60 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic pole
and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by enery from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 08:18:19 15.7S 173.6W MB=4.6 EMSC TONGA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Gulf of Honduras was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Gulf of Honduras at San Pedro Sula.
O: 20JAN2026 22:33:22 15.8N 88.1W ML=4.2 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Mindanao at Davao.
These epicenters are located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 10:29:54 6.4N 123.8E MB=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 21JAN2026 01:26:05 6.4N 123.8E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 05:14:27 6.4N 123.9E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 23:25:17 6.5N 123.8E mb=4.8 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 23:30:59 6.5N 123.9E mb=4.5 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 01:33:06 6.5N 123.8E Mw=5.4 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 21JAN2026 00:38:55 6.6N 123.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Switzerland was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Switzerland at Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Chalais, Liddes, Sierre and in Lech, Austria and in Italy at Breuil-Cervinia, Valtournenche, Antagnod, Gressoney-La-Trinite, Sain-Vincent, Chatillon,
Small tremors are common in Switzerland but events of M>=3.4 are not. The last
earthquakes in Switzerland within about 100 km of today's M 3.4 with equal
or larger magnitude were an M 4.2 on January 12, 2026 and an M 4.5 on March 12, 2022. At the time this summary
noted it as:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.5 was widely felt in the French Alps today. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in France in the Rhone-Alpes at Pallud, Cesarches, Tournon, and II-III in Faverges, Plancherine, Queige, Saint-Jorioz, La Balme-de-Thuy, Annecy and Villaz.
A lightly felt aftershock of M 3.8 also occurred about 18 minutes after the mainshock
Several light foreshocks of M 2.4 and 2.1 occurred prior to the mainshock beginning
atou three hours earlier. The last earthquake of M>=4.4 occurred as an M 4.4
on October 24, 2016, but the last of larger magnitude was an M 4.7-4.8 on April 7, 2014." (March 12, 2022)
This epicenter is located at 103 degrees from Mindanao and at 146 degrees from the
South Geomagnetic Pole and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 20:21:46 46.0N 7.7E MW=3.4 EMSC SWITZERLAND
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE 16P
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 16P 2026-01-21 00:00 UT 21.0S 168.4E 50 kts Loyalty Islands
Tropical cyclone 16P formed today South of Vanuatu near the Loyalty Islands with winds up to 50 kts. It is expected to track to the south and east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the southern Vanuatu and Loyalty Islands is possible at this time. The antipode at 22N 15W is off the coast of northern Africa in the Southern Mid-Atlantic and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to Los Angeles, California at 34N 118-119W around January 21-22, 2026 with winds up to 70 kts where it will dissiapate. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An 4.9 east of Los Angeles on January 19 at 34N 116W may have been promoted by antipodal effects of TC Dudzai. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 20, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
1230 0653 0712 0755 M3.4 (January 21, 2026) 2.8e-02
Argentina M 4.5 07:02 UT
Chiapas M 4.1 07:09 UT
South of New Zealand M 4.4 06:47 UT
Southern California M 4.3 08:30 UT
1020 0431 0438 0446 C2.0 (January 20, 2026) 1.8E-03
Loyalty Is. M 5.3 04:39 UT
Mindanao M 4.1 03:38 UT
1030 0528 0532 0534 C2.1 (January 20, 2026) 8.8E-04
Tonga M 5.1 05:39 UT
Southern California M 2.8 05:31 UT
1040 0607 0614 0618 C2.0 (January 20, 2026) 1.3E-03
Ascension Is. M 5.3 06:04 UT
1050 0624 0631 0636 C2.7 (January 20, 2026) 1.7E-03
Coast No. California M 2.7 06:25 UT
Mediterranean M 4.4 06:38 U
Coast Oregon M 3.4 06:30 UT
1060 0725 0733 0737 C4.4 (January 20, 2026) 2.4E-03
New Guinea M 5.9 07:22 UT
Illinois M 3.807:27 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 07:30 UT
Central Peru M 4.0 07:37 UT
Southern Texas M 2.0 07:41 UT
1110 0809 0816 0820 C4.0 (January 20, 2026) 2.0E-03
Santa Cruz Is. M 4.9 08:18 UT
Tonga M 4.6 08:18 UT
Southern Califonia M 3.8 08:20 UT
1140 1249 1322 1346 C4.2 (January 20, 2026) 1.1E-02
Loyalty Is. M 5.0 13:42 UT
1160 1532 1606 1709 C2.4 (January 20, 2026) 1.1E-02
Tajikistan M 4.3 15:46 UT
Eastern Tennessee M 2.0 16:23 UT
Nias, Indonesia M 4.4 16:25 UT
Tanzania M 5.4 17:11 UT
Rat Islands, M 3.7 17:12 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: severe storms January 21 minor storms January 22 active January 23. Solar M-flare chance: 60% X-class: 20% proton storm: 60%
AP Indicies: global: 143, high: 174, mid-latitude: 91, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 9.7; Sunspot Number: 172; Radio Flux: 178
An M3.4 solar flare occurred today. This flare occurred while California
was at local solar midnight. It was followed by the second strongest event
in the current earthquake swarm east of Los Angeles, California - an M 4.3
and may have helped promoted that event.
The Planetary AP reached 143 today with high latitude at 174 and middle latitude at 91.
Similar sized storms occurred on October 29, 2003 (AP 189); July 27, 2004 (AP 162); November 8-10, 2004 (AP 189, 120, 181);
and May 11, 2024 (AP 273). The last geomagnetic storm approaching the
intensity of today's occurred on November 12, 2025 (AP 127).
Major earthquakes followed these storms on November 17, 2003 (M 7.8 Rat Islands); Sumatra (M 9.0+ December 26, 2004 and M 8.0 South of New Zealand December 23, 2024).
When the storm of May, 2024 occurred this summary noted:
"A severe geomagnetic storm occurred today with high latitude AP 146 and Planetary
AP 118. KP index as at its highest possible value of 9 around May 10 at 20:00 through
May 11 at 04:00 UT. This appears to be the most disturbed the earth's geomagnetic field
has been in the current solar cycle. It also includes a proton stor which together
should reduce sort-term seismicity but enhance seismicity around May 14-20.
It is likely that a major earthquake will occur in the next 10 days most
likely in the regions near the geomagnetic equator and/or at high auroral
latitudes. Effects with the X5.4 flare today are most likely in the Kurils,
Kamchatka, western Alaska and the Tonga/Vanuatu/Fiji/New Zealand areas
of the South Pacific. The last time a severe storm hit the geomagnetic
field was March 24, 2024 (high latitude AP 100, Planetary AP 64) when this summary noted:
"The last time high latitude AP was at 100 or greater was on November 4, 2021 when it reached 131. Planetary AP was 69 on that date.
"The last time high latitude AP exceeded 120 was on December 15, 2006 when it hit AP 120 with global AP at 104.
The earthquake in 2006 was followed several days later by an M 7.0 in Taiwan. The last time the AP disturbance at high latitudes exceeded today's index of 131 was on September 11-12 (AP 131 and 136).
The storm in September, 2005 was accompanied by an M 7.7 in New Ireland and an M 6.4 in the Nias region of Indonesia.
This history suggests that a major earthquake is likely in the next several
days. In general, strong geomagnetic storms see major earthquakes at the time
of the storm's commencement or about 4-5 days later as the ionospheric ring
currents at high latitude and about 10 degrees from the geomagnetic equator
reemerge after the disturbance. This often includes a strong to major
earthquake. At this time such an event appears most likely near the geomagnetic
equator or at high latitudes ... (November 5, 2021, March 25, 2024, May 11, 2024)
and
"As the geomagnetic storm wound down today, the expected resurgence of global
seismicity began. This started with an M 6.4 off the coast of Guatemala and Chiapas,
Mexico. Then near local solar noon an earthquake of M 4.9-5.0 occurred in Baja
California. This was accompanied by a number of foreshocks and moderate
aftershocks. This was followed by an M 5.9 in the Kermadec Islands, New
Zealand. Each of these had been expected as a consequence of recent
X-class solar flares." (May 13, 2024)
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 20, 2026 at 18:00:26 UT (#260120B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>17.4 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 3.4 in Kashmir was simultaneous with this GRB as was an M 3.0
in Sumatra.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>18.44 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 20, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A major geomagnetic storm hit the earth late on UT day January 19. This is probably
caused by the CME from the X1.9 solar flare which occurred late on January 18
as reported in the previous issue of this summary. Today's storm reached global
Kp of 8 after a sudden commencement at 19:09 UT and proceeded to Kp of 9
in the following two hours. The last geomagnetic storm with planetary Kp 8 or greater
occurred on November 12, 2025 when Kp 8.67 was recorded early in the day. Kp of 9
was not reached during that storm. The last storm in which global Kp reached 9
was the storm of May 10-11, 2024. This is a G4-G5 geomagnetic storm which can
induce intense curents in the magnetosphere and heating of the ionosphere. They
can also trigger seismic activity especially in longitudes which are sub-solar and antisolar
at the time of the commencement of the storm.
In the current case, the storm began (according to GOES 18 and GOES 19 magnetometers
at 19:09 UT with a sudden negative shift in geomagnetic field strength and a major
decline in electron flux.
A second major change occurred at 21:20 UT when the field reversed and a sharp
rise in geomagnetic field strength occurred. This coincided with a major decline in
proton Flux at GOES altitudes (also at 21:20 UT). But the strom in continuing.
The storm triggered an immediate seismic reaction at the near solar noon area
of northern Nevada. An M 3.5 earthquake occurred near Empire, Nevada precisely
with the commencement of this storm at 19:09 UT. It was reported felt with
intensity II in Gardnerville, Nevada,
O: 19JAN2026 19:09:02 40.5N 119.6W ML=3.5 NEIC NEVADA
O: 19JAN2026 15:35:22 40.6N 119.6W MW=3.8 EMSC NEVADA
O: 19JAN2026 19:09:01 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.2 EMSC NEVADA
O: 20JAN2026 05:46:19 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.4 EMSC NEVADA
A second earthquake occurred later in the area of the western Andreanof Islands
with M 5.0 near local solar noon. This epicenter was near noon when the geomagnetic
storm was at maximum.
This epicenter is located at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole; the 10th node (36 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic pole and at the sevent
node from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 00:32:07 51.2N 178.4W ML=5.0 NEIC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIANS IS. ALASKA
O: 20JAN2026 00:32:06 51.2N 178.4W MB=4.3 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
O: 19JAN2026 14:08:02 51.3N 177.0W ML=3.7 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS.
The areas which were directly at local solar noon at the height of the initial
geomagnetic storm included California. This summary has warned that a moderate
earthquake was likely in this area due to the new moon stresses and the effect
of the X2.2 solar flare yesterday (January 18) and had specified one of these
regions in the area of southern California near Los Angeles as follows:
"Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the west and south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 118W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 34.5N 118-119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 65 kts. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An M 3.5 north of Los Angeles on January 18 at 35N 118W may suggest a possible site of an enhanced earthquake at that time. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date." (January 16-19, 2026)
So frequent readers of this summary should not be surprised that today's geomagnetic
storm appears to have brought this event a day earlier than expected. An M 4.9
occurred in Southern California today with the following parameters:
O: 20JAN2026 01:56:13 33.9N 116.2W ML=4.9 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported that nearly 3000 residents of southern California provided felt
data to USGS on this earthquake. It was reported with intensity V east of Los
Angeles in Indio and Palm Desert, California with IV in Winchester, Indian Wells,
San Bernardino, Escondido, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Palm Springs, and III in Laguna Hills, Placentia, Riverside, Fountain Valley, Ladera Ranch, Twentynine Palms, Laguna Niguel, Santa Ana, Desert Hot Springs, Vista, San Diego, Mohave Valley, Arizona and as far to the west as San Diego, Northridge, Los Angeles.
A series of light aftershocks is continuing at this writing.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter with M>4.9 was
recorded on July 7, 2010 about 75 km southwest of today's epicenter. At the time
this summary noted:
"A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.4-5.6 hit southern California today.
...
This earthquake was felt widely throughout southern California and Arizona.
Maximum intensity of VI was reported near the epicenter at Mountain Center,
Ocotillo, and Ranchita and within about 20 km of the epicenter. Intensity V was reported from Warner Springs,
Los Angeles, Coachella, La Quinta, Mecca, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Thermal,
Aguanpa, Anza, San Jacinto, and in general within about 40 km of the epicenter.
Most of the remainder of Southern California reported intensity II-IV for
this event. The earthquake was also felt in Baja California with intensity
IV in Tijuana and Tecate and lesser intensities within about 150 km of the
epicenter. Maximum intensity in Nevada occurred at Las Vegas with IV and
in Arizona it was felt within about 300 km of the epicenter with intensity
II-III.
The quake caused at least one rock slide and left people trapped in
elevators but no injuries were reported and no significant
damage occurred to buildings or roads in the area. Items fell from
shelves and some windows were broken and other minor damage was
reported. While it is not a classic aftershock of the Easter Day
Baja California earthquake it may reflect strain transfer from that
earthquake. The rock slide occurred near a tram in Palm Springs and
damaged several cars on the highway. The people in the elevators were
trapped near Rancho Mirage for about 40 minutes." (July 1, 2010)
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Southern California
with M>=4.9 occurred on April 14, 2025 with M 5.2.
This epicenter is located near the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and
the North Geomagnetic pole and may have been promoted by constructive
energy interference from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 01:56:16 33.8N 116.2W MW=4.9 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 01:57:49 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 01:59:04 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.9 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:00:24 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:06:45 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:27:26 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:37:09 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 02:50:56 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 04:57:26 33.9N 116.2W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 05:01:45 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 05:31:51 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 05:53:11 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 06:15:35 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:02:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:18:01 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 20JAN2026 07:49:34 33.9N 116.2W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
A highly unusual earthquake of M 3.5-3.8 shook the area near St. Louis, Missouri south of Chicago, Illinois
near local solar midnight on January 20, 2026. More than 1000 residents reported felt effects to USGS.
NEIC reported intensity V in Illinois at Morrisonville; IV in Coffeen, Carlinville, Nokomis, Roxana, Cowden, Palmer, Nebo, Tower Hill, Breese, Rushville, Butler, Collinsville, Chester, Marshall, Stonefort, Caseyville, Poseyville, Springfield among others. It was also felt with intensity III-IV in Missouri at Saint Louis, Florissant, Maryland Heights, Bixby, Eureka, Hillsboro, Paris, Berger, among others and in Indiana at Poseyville, Princeton, among others. It was also reported felt as far as Washington, Iowa with intensity II.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Illinois at Pana, Tayloville, Morisonville, Auburn, Southern View, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Murrayville, Jerseyville, White Hall, University City, Saint Charles, Missouria, Chesterfield, Crystal City and in the Chicago Loop.
It occurred during the peak of the geomagnetic storm when planetary Kp was 8
and was probably triggered by geomagnetic effects. The last earthquake within
about 150 km of this epicenter with M>=3.8, and the only such event in at
least 35 years was an M 3.9 on June 7, 2011. At the time this summary noted:
"A strong M-class solar flare occurred of class M2.2 began shortly after
06:00 UT on June 7. Global seismicity immediately lit up. The most widely
felt earthquakes in the hours following this flare occurred at longitudes
which were at solar noon (subsolar) or solar midnight (antisolar). These
are areas which are prime targets for solar flare effects (SFE). This
is the strongest solar flare since an X1.5 flare which occurred on March 9-10, 2011,
...
This flare may have triggered an M 3.9 earthquake
near Saint Louis, Missouri today as it occurred while that epicenter was
exactly anti-solar (local solar midnight), a prime time for solar flare
triggering.
...
We reported fully on the earthquake east of Saint Louis which occurred two
hours after the solar flare. This was the strongest earthquake in that
area in more than 40 years. The epicenter was within 10 minutes of exactly
local midnight at the time of the Solar Flare (the opposite longitude to
Xinjiang, China). It is likely that the M2.2 flare was the immediate trigger
for this earthquake." (June 7, 2011)
This epicenter in Illinois is at 145 degrees from TC Dudzai; 109 degrees from
Taiwan and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from northern Honshu, Japan and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 07:27:39 39.4N 89.2W MB=3.8 EMSC ILLINOIS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.9 in New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Guinea with III in Papua New Guinea in the highlands at Kainantu and Mount Hagen.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Papua New Guinea at Kainantu.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and Kamchatka
and at the eighth node from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 07:22:00 5.3S 146.0E MW=5.9 EMSC EASTERN NEW GUINEA REG., P.N.G
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.8 and M 3.9 in Nevada was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Nevada in Glenbrook.
An M 3.5 near Empire, Nevada also occurred today. This event coincided with
the beginning of the severe geomagnetic storm and was near local solar noon
at the time and probably was triggered by geomagnetic effects associated
with that storm. It was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity up
to II in Nevada at Gardnerville and Sparks.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Mindanao; the fifth node from Hokkaido, Japan
and the sevent node from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 15:35:22 40.6N 119.6W MW=3.8 EMSC NEVADA
O: 19JAN2026 19:09:01 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.2 EMSC NEVADA
O: 20JAN2026 05:46:19 40.6N 119.6W ML=3.4 EMSC NEVADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Tonga was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tonga with II in Neiafu Vava'u.
This epicenter is located at 102 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole;
at the sixth node from the South Geomagnetic Pole and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 20JAN2026 05:39:04 15.0S 173.2W MB=5.1 EMSC TONGA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 4.9 and M 5.3 in Southern Mindanao, Philippines were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Mindanao, Philippines with III in Buayan and Davao.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 19:00:22 6.4N 123.8E MW=5.3 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPIN
O: 19JAN2026 19:54:02 6.4N 123.8E mb=4.7 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 03:46:23 6.4N 123.7E ML=4.4 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 20JAN2026 04:38:18 6.4N 123.7E ML=4.1 EMSC MORO GULF, MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar in Rangoon.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Myanmar at Nyaungdon, Yangon.
This epicenter is located at the seventh node (53 degrees) from TC Dudzai; the fourth node
from Yukon, Canada; the sixth node from Kamchatka and the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 15:43:56 17.2N 95.8E MB=4.4 EMSC MYANMAR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 6.0 in the Loyalty Islands was not felt in the area(s) of the Loyalty Islands.
This epicenter is located at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Mindanao; the fourth
node (90 degrees from Yukon, Canada and at 100 km from TC Dudzai. It may
have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 13:01:01 22.3S 170.5E MB=5.0 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
O: 19JAN2026 13:02:23 22.3S 170.3E Mw=6.0 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
O: 20JAN2026 04:39:07 22.3S 170.1E Mw=5.3 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
O: 19JAN2026 09:25:52 22.4S 170.3E mb=4.7 EMSC SOUTHEAST OF LOYALTY ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Sichuan/Yunnan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Sichuan/Yunnan in Zhaotong, Yunnan, China.
This epicenter is located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole
and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 11:32:06 27.1N 103.4E MB=5.2 EMSC SICHUAN/YUNNAN, CHINA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Calle Blancos, Guadalupe, San Rafael, San Felipe, San Pedro, Alajuelita.
O: 19JAN2026 23:06:55 9.9N 84.1W ML=4.3 EMSC COSTA RICA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-20 00:00 UT 23.0S 58.4E 70 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 23N 121W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to Los Angeles, California at 34N 118-119W around January 21-22, 2026 with winds up to 70 kts where it will dissiapate. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An 4.9 east of Los Angeles on January 19 at 34N 116W may have been promoted by antipodal effects of TC Dudzai. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-20 00:00 UT 17.7N 130.0E 45 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 18S 50W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 19, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
930 1109 1119 1122 M1.1 (January 19, 2026) 4.3E-03
Sichuan, China M 5.2 11:32 UT
940 1223 1227 1230 C2.8 (January 19, 2026) 1.2E-03
Coquimbo Chile M 3.5 12:23 UT
950 1257 1307 1312 C3.4 (January 19, 2026) 2.5E-03
Loyalty Is. M 5.0, M 6.0 13:02, 13:05 UT
Sumbawa M 3.7 13:15 UT
Rat Is. M 4.1 13:18 UT
960 1357 1404 1407 C3.6 (January 19, 2026) 1.7E-03
Guerrero M 54.0 14:12 UT
Andreanof Is. M 3.7 14:08 UT
980 1522 1531 1542 C3.6 (January 19, 2026) 3.8E-03
Myanmar M 4.4 15:43 UT
Nevada M 3.8 15:35 UT
990 1744 1758 1819 C3.8 (January 19, 2026) 6.9E-03
Mariana Is. M 4.9 17:59 UT
1000 1909 1921 1945 C8.0 (January 19, 2026) 1.3E-02
Moro Gulf, Mindanao M 5.3 19:00 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: severe storms January 20 minor storms January 21 active January 22. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 25% proton storm: 99%
AP Indicies: global: 73, high: 91, mid-latitude: 64, time of max AP: 21:00 UT; Max AP: 8.7; Sunspot Number: 162; Radio Flux: 173
A severe geomagnetic storm occurred late on UT January 19, 2026. It reached high latitude
Kp of 9 (G5 severe storm levels) about 1800-1900 UT and resumed at kp 9
at high latitudes around 0600-0900 UT on January 20, 2026. Mid-latitude
Kp reached 8 late on January 19. This is the strongest geomagnetic storm
since planetary A reached 127 on November 12, 2025 (high latitude A 123 and middle latitude A 70) but middle
latitude Kp did not reach 8 with that storm. Today's storm was accompanied
by unusually large earthquakes in Southern California east of Los Angeles
of M 4.9 and an M 3.8 near Saint Louis, Missouri among others which were
apprently promoted by geomagnetic effects from the storm.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 19, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A major X-ray solar flare occurred on January 18, 2026 (#810 X1.9). SWPC reported the following
parameters for this flare. This is the most energetic solar flare since an X1.9 on June 19, 2025 (#2550).
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
810 1727 1809 1851 X1.9 (January 18, 2026) 5.8E-01
Pakistan M 5.7 06:21 UT
Honshu M 3.5 17:37 UT
Sulawesi M 4.6 17:54 UT
Xizang M 4.0 17:57 UT
Guerrero M 4.3 19:03 UT
Los Angeles, CA M 2.5 20:20 UT
Lake Baykal, Russia M 4.5 20:29 UT
The last X-class solar flare of any size occurred on December 8, 2025 with X1.1 ane a X1.7 on November 9, 2025
(#4640). The official start of this flare is 17:27 UT but X-ray flux
began a steep increase about 17:00 UT and the flare was still M-class output
as of 22:00 UT on January 18. The new moon also completed its cycle
during this flare as reported in earlier issues of this summary:
"The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight." (January 16-18, 2026)
Longitudes most likely to see enhanced seismicity with this solar flare
are from about 75 to 135 West longitude (Western Americas) which was sub-solar
in the duration of this flare. These are the most likely areas to see a moderate to strong
earthquake in the next several hours. Lesser enhancement is expected from 105 to 45 East
longitude (at local solar midnight) and includes much of eastern Asia.
A moderate earthquake which was probably promoted by SFE
from this flare occurred off the coast of Northern California with M 4.2.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity III in Northern California
at Loleta, Carlotta and Eureka and II in Ferndale, Brookings, Fortuna, Hydesville and in O'Brien, Oregon.
This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of northern California
since an M 4.5 on July 29, 2025 near this epicenter and is therefore a
significant regional earthquake. The association with the X1.9 solar flare
is most likely not a coincidence. The M 4.5 on July 29 was closely connected to the
M 8.7 in Kamchatka of the same day but occurred several minutes before that
event. It was summarized in this report at the time as:
"An earthquake of M 4.5 occurred today off the coast of northern California.
This event occurred about 6 minutes prior to the M 8.8 in Kamchatka. It may
be related to slow slippage in Kamchatka prior to the mainshock or to an
unidentified source triggering both.
It was widely felt with intensity II in northern California in Saratoga, Occidental, Eureka, McKinleyville, Arcata, Bayside, Ferndale.
The last earthquake off the coast of California with magnitude of M>4.5 was an M 5.3
on December 15, 2024, an aftershock of the M 7.0 there on December 5, 2024, so
the coincidental timing with the M 8.8 in Kamchatka could not be such
a coincidence after all. The distance between Northern California epicenter
and Kamchatka is 51 degrees (node 7). Travel time for a p-phase between
these two epicenter is about 9 minutes so no seismic data would have traversed
this distance in the 6.5 minutes between these two earthquakes." (July 29, 2025)
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Kamchatka and the North Geomagnetic pole and at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 00:20:33 40.4N 125.0W MW=4.2 NEIC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19JAN2026 00:20:33 40.4N 125.0W Mw=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
The largest earthquake at this time which was apparently triggered by
the combination solar flare and new moon energies occurred in Northwestern
Kashmir, Pakistan with M 5.7 (EMSC) to M 6.0 (GSRAS) with NEIC magnitude at M 5.9. EMSC reported it was felt with strong
intensity in Pakistan in Aliabad, Islamabad, with lesser shaking in
China and Rawalpindi, Pakistan. NEIC reported intensity VI in Northern Pakistan at Hunza and III in Rawalpindi, Punjab. This earthquake occurred within minutes of
local solar noon and the epicenter was near local midnight at the time
of the new moon and the X1.9 solar flare. The last earthquake in the area
of Kashmir, Pakistan within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=5.9
occurred in March 1990 with M 6.2 on March 5 and M 6.3 on March 25, 1990 - more than 35 years ago.
The last such earthquake within about 250 km occurred on October 8, 2005
with M 7.3-7.6. At the time this summary noted:
"A powerful earthquake hit the northern border of India and Bangladesh
today and has been reported to have killed thousands in the region (3000 confirmed
at the time of this writing). Data on the
NEIC website indicates the earthquake was most widely felt in the area of Muzaffarabad
with maximum intensity VIII but that it was was widely felt in India,
Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakshstan and India. Intensity VII was
reached at Swabi and Topi, Pakistan while intensity VI was reported at Srinagar,
India, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Lakhnau, India, Hoshiarpur, India. NewKerala.com
(online Indian news source) indicates that thousands were feared killed in
Pakistan while at least 260 died in Jammu and Kashmir. Widespread damage
was reported from the North West Frontier Province and the capital of Islamabad.
At least 500 were killed and 1700 injured in Mansehra district of Pakistan's
North West Frontier Province. Many villages are said to have been completely
destroyed by the earthquake. Pledges of internationalo aid were immediately
made and help is being dispatched. Telephone and power was out in the affected
area. Landslides were common following the mainshock and a series of strong
aftershocks ranging from M 5.0-6.3. Many roads were cut by landslides and
buildings collapsed in many areas. This is the
strongest earthquake in the region bounded by (30-40N 72-80E) in the past twenty
years - since a similar M 7.5 hit the area on August 23, 1985 about 500 km north
of this epicenter in the Wuqia and Shufu area. That earthquake killed at least
71 and injured 162 while leaving up to 85% of the buildings destroyed and more
than 15,000 homeless. Today's earthquake appears to be one of the most deadly
ever to hit this region. ... recent activity in central and southern Asia, especially the landfall of several
powerful typhoons had prompted us to include the region (10S-40N 50-100E) of
south and central Asia in a seismic watch first issued on Oct. 2 and effective
through Oct. 7. This watch was extended through Oct. 15. Readers are encouraged
to follow our watches as larger earthquakes most often occur in watch periods.
We emphasized the probability of strong activity associated with Typhoon
Longwang inland Asia in India, Afghanistan, China and Iran when we stated
in our summary on Oct. 3, 2005 in this regard: "As Longwang moves into Asia seismicity may
occur at higher levels in Central Asia (India, China, Afghanistan, Iran)." (geoForecaster Inc. Oct. 3, 2005).
The immediate trigger for this event may have been a moderate geomagnetic storm
which began late last night. This is the strongest geomagnetic storm in almost a
month - since early September and fluctuations in the GOES-12 fields were about
20-30% of the total field at the time of this earthquake (03:50 UT). This
geomagnetic storm comes after a week of extreme quiet in the geomagnetic field.
Following storms in early September there was concern voiced in Indian
Seismological circles and in the press that the current geomagnetic storms and
solar flares might be destabilizing the plate with a potential strong earthquake
as a possibility. On September 18, this summary noted these concerns in our
summary when we stated following a foreshock in the general area of today's event in the India-
Banagladesh region: "The online newspaper India Daily indicated that some Indian
Scientists believe this earthquake was related to a massive degradation of the
Indian Plate due to recent Solar Flares. ... Scientists at
the India National Geophysical Reserach Institute (NGRI) indicated
that the region has been hit by great earthquakes in 1897, 1905, 1934 and 1950
and by 10 other earthquakes of M>=7.5 in the past 100 years and that today's
earthquakes was not surprising according to New India Press (online). Rediff
(on line news source) noted that the earthquake was the severest in Jammu and
Kashmir in 120 years - since an M 7.0 on May 30, 1885. Fears of a second
earthquake have been raised in Lahore and strong aftershocks continue.
...
HISTORICAL ACTIVITY
The last earthquake of M>=7.5 within about 200 km of today's epicenter
was located on April 4, 2005 with M 8.6. Following is the summary of this
earthquake from our historical earthquake database:
The earthquake that struck the Dharamshala-Kangra area in Himachal Pradesh
on April 4th, 1905 is among the deadliest earthquakes in the history of
India. According to the provincial government of Punjab, 19,727 people
were killed at Sialkot. Many of the fatalities were from Dharamshala,
Kangra and neigbhouring towns and villages. Felt from Afghanistan to Bengal.
All the buildings were destroyed at Kangra including numerous churches
and temples.
One major difficulty in this event was that most government officials
were killed and there was no one to supervise the rescue and cleanup
efforts. Most of the deaths were due to the ground shaking.
Landslides, liquifaction and other earthquake effects caused
extensive damage throughout the region." (October 8, 2005)
MIS (official Meteorologial India Seismicity site) gives the time of this earthquake
as 11:51 IST with M 5.7 within 10 minutes of local noon.
This epicenter is located at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Honshu, Japan
and from the North Geomagnetic Pole; and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Dudzai and
Kamchatka and may hve been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 19JAN2026 06:21:12 36.8N 74.4E ML=5.7 EMSC NORTHWESTERN KASHMIR
O: 19JAN2026 06:21:12 36.8N 74.5E ML=6.0 GSRAS NORTHWESTERN KASHMIR
O: 19JAN2026 06:21:12 36.7N 74.4E ML=5.9 GSRAS NORTHWESTERN KASHMIR
Other quakes with the flare which occurred near local solar noon
have included an M 4.3 in Guerrero, Mexico and at local solar midnight
an M 4.0 in Tibet (Xizang) and Lake Baykal, Russia (M 4.5). An M 5.2 in the
Snares Island south of New Zealand occurred near the beginning of this flare.
This summary will continue updates on this important development.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in South San Francisco and Alameda.
O: 19JAN2026 04:56:35 36.7N 121.3W MD=2.7 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.0 and M 2.5 in eastern Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern Los Angeles, California with III at Lytle Creek, Corona, Colton, Lake Arrowhead, Upland, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, San Bernardino, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, and Riverside.
O: 18JAN2026 20:20:44 34.3N 117.5W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 19JAN2026 01:41:25 34.2N 117.4W ML=2.9 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.3-6.0 in Snares Island, New Zealand was not felt in this remote area.
GeoNet reported this event with the following parameters:
O: 18JAN2026 16:45:09 48.3S 165.1E MB=6.0 GEONET Felt weakly by 19 and lightly by 9 and with severe intensity by 0 respondents in Southern South Island and in Snares Island, New Zealand.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Kamchatka and at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 18JAN2026 16:45:08 48.3S 165.3E Mw=5.2 EMSC OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z.
O: 18JAN2026 16:45:08 48.3S 165.3E MW=6.0 GEONET OFF W. COAST OF S. ISLAND, N.Z
NEIC reported earthquake of M 3.6 and M 3.1 in Central California north of Los Angeles were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California with III in Randsburg, Weldon, Johannesburg and II in San Bernardino, Ridgecrest, and Trona.
O: 18JAN2026 16:24:48 35.3N 117.8W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 18JAN2026 14:54:12 35.3N 117.8W Mw=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California at Vista.
EMSC reported this event with M 2.9 was felt with moderate shaking in Fontana, Bloomington, Colton, Muscoy, Crestline, Grand Terace, Pedley, Eastvale, Moreno Valley, California.
O: 19JAN2026 01:41:25 34.2N 117.4W ML=2.9 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Guam was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guam with III in Tamuning, Santa Rita and Yona and II in Mangilao and Dededo.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 18JAN2026 09:51:33 13.8N 145.1E MB=4.5 EMSC GUAM REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei and Taichung Counties.
EMSC reported moderate to light shaking in Taiwan in Ilan, Taipei, Taoyuan Counties.
O: 18JAN2026 08:47:45 24.3N 121.9E MW=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN
O: 18JAN2026 23:48:27 23.3N 120.8E ML=4.3 EMSC TAIWAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Baykal, Russia may have been felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baykal, Russia,
This epicenter is within 100 km of being antipodal to an M 7.4 last year
in the Drake Passage. It is also at the third node (120 degrees) from the
South Geomagnetic Pole and the seventh node (52 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 18JAN2026 20:29:33 55.3N 110.0E MB=4.5 EMSC LAKE BAYKAL REGION, RUSSIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Costa Rica was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Costa Rica in Golfito with a loud noise.
O: 19JAN2026 03:48:18 9.0N 83.3W ML=4.5 EMSC COSTA RICA
O: 18JAN2026 15:48:09 8.4N 82.9W ML=4.4 EMSC PANAMA-COSTA RICA BORDER REGION
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 in Lebanon was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Lebanon in El Hermel, Zgharta, Tripoli, Jbail, Jounieh, Jdaidet el Matn, Baabda, Beirut, Ra;s Bayrut.
This epicenter is at the sixth node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and from
TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
The earthquake occurred near local solar noon.
O: 18JAN2026 11:01:38 34.2N 36.4E ML=3.4 EMSC LEBANON - SYRIA REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-19 00:00 UT 21.1S 62.8E 65 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the west and south over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 21N 118W is west of Baja and the Gulf of California area of western Mexico and is not likely to see enhanced seismicity at this time. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 34.5N 118-119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 65 kts. It will not spend much time at this antipodal location as it will be moving rapidly to the south at that time, somewhat mitigating potential triggering in southern California at that time. An M 3.5 north of Los Angeles on January 18 at 35N 118W may suggest a possible site of an enhanced earthquake at that time. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-19 00:00 UT 16.7N 126.6E 45 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 17S 54W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 17, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
600 0306 0311 0317 C1.5 (January 18, 2026) 1.0E-03
Chiapas M 4.5 03:13 UT
610 0341 0349 0353 C1.7 (January 18, 2026) 1.5E-03
680 0353 0408 0422 C2.7 (January 18, 2026) 4.2E-03
Azerbaijan M 4.0 03:56 UT
Oaxaca M 4.0 04:03 UT
Molucca Sea M 5.1 04:16 UT
640 0601 0620 0632 C7.1 (January 18, 2026) 8.9E-03
Andreanof Is. M 3.5 06:03 UT
Papua M 4.9 06:38 UT
700 1142 1148 1155 C2.2 (January 18, 2026) 1.7E-03
Southern California M 2.7 11:42 UT
740 1359 1404 1410 C2.3 (January 18, 2026) 1.5E-03
760 1631 1637 1643 C2.5 (January 18, 2026) 1.6E-03
810 1727 1809 1851 X1.9 (January 18, 2026) 5.8E-01
Pakistan M 5.7 06:21 UT
Honshu M 3.5 17:37 UT
Sulawesi M 4.6 17:54 UT
Xizang M 4.0 17:57 UT
Guerrero M 4.3 19:03 UT
Los Angeles, CA M 2.5 20:20 UT
Lake Baykal, Russia M 4.5 20:29 UT
810 1739 1757 1944 3200 (January 18, 2026) RADIO BURST
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 19-20 disturbed January 21. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 20% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 15, high: 25, mid-latitude: 12, time of max AP: 12:00 UT; Max AP: 5.3; Sunspot Number: 140; Radio Flux: 148
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 18, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight.
Moderate geomagnetic storminess continued today with no sudden commencements.
At the same time, global seismicity was at quiet levels. This is the pattern
often seen and expected while geomagnetic disturbances are active and will
change in the next several days.
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.4 in the South Sandwich Islands. It was not reported felt in this remote area.
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Taiwan and from Yukon, Canada and may
have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those sources.
O: 17JAN2026 18:00:21 56.0S 28.9W MB=5.4 EMSC SOUTH SANDWICH ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska with III in Talkeetna, Fort Richardson, Anchorage, and II in Chugiak.
An M 3.8 earlier in the day also occurred in Southern Alaska. NEIC reported intensity II in Anchorage and Valdez, Alaska with this event.
The activity in Alaska may have been promoted by a moderate solar flare which
occurred today while this area was near local solar midnight as reported in
the previous issue of this summary:
"A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time." (January 17, 2026)
The epicenter of the M 4.2 is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hokkaido,
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 17JAN2026 14:06:00 60.9N 147.2W ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
O: 18JAN2026 02:45:01 61.9N 150.9W ML=4.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
O: 17JAN2026 18:26:01 61.2N 151.4W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii at Captain Cook.
O: 18JAN2026 00:12:42 19.4N 155.8W ML=3.2 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Southeastern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southeastern Alaska with III in Sitka.
O: 17JAN2026 21:45:51 57.2N 136.3W ML=4.0 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Anchorage, Alaska.
O: 17JAN2026 14:06:00 60.9N 147.2W ML=3.8 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei.
O: 17JAN2026 17:01:30 24.3N 121.8E ML=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 near Tokyo, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of near Tokyo, Japan in Komae, Tokyo.
O: 17JAN2026 16:49:48 35.6N 140.1E MB=4.5 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California in Salinas.
O: 17JAN2026 13:53:24 36.7N 121.3W ML=3.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 17JAN2026 14:12:00 36.7N 121.3W MD=2.4 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 18JAN2026 00:30:22 36.7N 121.3W MD=2.3 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Azerbaijan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Azerbaijan in Shamakhi.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-18 00:00 UT 18.3S 66.5E 70 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 114W is south of the Gulf of California area of western Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 35N 119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 75 kts. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-18 00:00 UT 14.6N 125.5E 45 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the east over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 14S 55W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 17, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
220 0049 0054 0058 C3.1 (January 17, 2026) 1.4E-03
240 0220 0226 0229 C3.0 (January 17, 2026) 2.3E-03
250 0229 0237 0242 C4.4 (January 17, 2026) 3.8E-03
260 0242 0246 0248 C4.7 (January 17, 2026) 2.2E-03
270 0302 0307 0313 C2.4 (January 17, 2026) 1.7E-03
280 0357 0404 0408 C1.9 (January 17, 2026) 1.3E-03
Antofagasta M 3.8 03:57 UT
290 0413 0420 0425 C2.0 (January 17, 2026) 1.4E-03
Taiwan M 5.0 04:18 UT
320 0603 0609 0614 C2.8 (January 17, 2026) 1.7E-03
420 0729 0734 0743 C2.2 (January 17, 2026) 2.2E-03
350 0743 0748 0750 C2.0 (January 17, 2026) 1.2E-03
380 1019 1029 1032 M2.1 (January 17, 2026) 7.5E-03
470 1503 1507 1510 C5.6 (January 17, 2026) 2.6E-03
500 1804 1813 1822 C1.9 (January 17, 2026) 2.0E-03
South Sandwich Is. M 5.4 18:01 UT
Myanmar M 4.0 18:21 UT
Greenland Sea M 3.6 17:54 UT
550 2332 2342 2346 C8.4 (January 17, 2026) 5.1E-03
560 2346 2351 2354 M1.1 (January 17, 2026) 5.2E-03
Guerrero M 4.0 23:56 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 00:02 UT
XXXX 0601 0620 0632 C7.1 (January 18, 2026) 8.9E-03 *
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 18 active January 19-20. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 27, high: 39, mid-latitude: 18, time of max AP: 01:00 UT; Max AP: 5.3; Sunspot Number: 124; Radio Flux: 159
A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time.
The geomagnetic field for January 15 was active with a G-1 geomagnetic
storm and Kp5-5.3 occurring late in the day. The maximum Kp at high latitudes
occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 UT with Kp of 8. The High latitude A index today
reached 66. The last time that high latitude kp reached 8 was on November 12, 2025.
The last day that the A-index was higher than today's was also November 13, 2025.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 17, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight.
A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time.
The geomagnetic field for January 15 was active with a G-1 geomagnetic
storm and Kp 5-5.3 occurring late in the day. The maximum Kp at high latitudes
occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 UT with Kp of 8. The High latitude A index today
reached 66. The last time that high latitude kp reached 8 was on November 12, 2025.
The last day that the A-index was higher than today's was also November 13, 2025.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1007 1020 1040 M2.2 (January 17, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.5 south of Western Australia on the
Western Indian-Antarctic Ridge. It was not felt in this remote area. This earthquake
occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour. This is the
strongest earthquake within about 250 km of this epicenter south of Australia
since an M 5.6 on March 31, 2023 and before that an M 5.6 on August 30, 2012. No
events of significantly larger magnitude have occurred in this area in the
past 35 years. At the time of the M 5.6 on March 31, 2023 this summary reportedL
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.6 south of Australia on the
Indian-Antarctic Ridge. The last earthquake in this area of the Indian-Antarctic
Ridge with M>=5.6 occurred on August 30, 2012 with M 5.6. Two other events of M 5.6
have occurred within about 500 km of this epicenter in the past 35 years - an M 5.6 on April 27, 2010 and an M 5.6 on June 3, 2009.
No events of larger magnitude have hit the area in at least 35 years.
This activity may have been promoted by tidal effects. This epicenter is near the
longitude of maximum tidal stress with the upcoming full moon" (March 31, 2023) as noted in
This epicenter is near the fourth node from Honshu, Japan; the fifth node from
Taiwan and the sixth node from Mindanao and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 16:41:09 50.1S 114.2E MW=5.5 EMSC WESTERN INDIAN-ANTARCTIC RIDGE
O: 16JAN2026 17:52:15 50.1S 114.2E Mw=5.2 EMSC WESTERN INDIAN-ANTARCTIC RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.4 in Hokkaido, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Honshu, Japan at Morioka, Iwate.
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 16JAN2026 19:34:14 41.3N 142.7E MW=5.4 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 16JAN2026 15:39:30 44.3N 142.3E ML=4.2 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii with IV in Pahala, III in Naalehu and II in Captain Cook.
O: 16JAN2026 17:55:20 19.2N 155.5W ML=3.2 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Southern Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Peru in Arica, Tarapaca Chile.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Peru at Sobraya and Pocollay.
O: 16JAN2026 07:34:37 17.6S 70.2W MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN PERU
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Central Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Turkey at Kahramanmaras, Gaziantep, and Mersin.
O: 16JAN2026 10:19:01 38.2N 36.7E ML=4.0 EMSC CENTRAL TURKEY
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in Albania was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Albania in Voskopoje, Dardhas, Bucimas, Pogradec, Korce, Polican, Elbasan, Tirana; in Budva, Montenegro and in North Macedonia at Ohrid, Bitola, Stuga.
O: 16JAN2026 10:28:51 40.8N 20.6E ML=3.9 EMSC ALBANIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-17 00:00 UT 17.4S 68.9E 110 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 110 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 112W is in the Revillo Gigedo Island area of western Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 35N 119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 75 kts. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL STORM NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TS NOKEAN 2026-01-17 00:00 UT 14.1N 124.4E 65 kts Central Philippines
Tropical Storm Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area of the central Philippines with winds up to 65 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 14S 55W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 16, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1007 1020 1040 M2.2 (January 17, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
9980 0259 0303 0308 C1.5 (January 16, 2026) 8.2E-04
Oregon M 6.0 03:25 UT
Taiwan M 4.6 03:09 UT
30 0847 0909 0922 C6.6 (January 16, 2026) 8.9E-03
Yukon M 2.7 08:48 UT
Taiwan M 4.5 08:49 UT
Honshu M 4.8 09:04 UT
60 1136 1141 1149 C1.3 (January 16, 2026) 1.1E-03
70 1231 1240 1246 C2.0 (January 16, 2026) 1.6E-03
Sulu, Philippines M 4.5 12:41 UT
Minahasa M 4.4 12:41 UT
Honduras M 3.0 12:42 UT
110 1715 1721 1724 C1.4 (January 16, 2026) 7.7E-04
120 1904 1915 1922 C4.0 (January 16, 2026) 3.0E-03
160 2014 2022 2026 C1.5 (January 16, 2026) 1.1E-03
170 2036 2043 2047 C1.9 (January 16, 2026) 1.3E-03
Kamchatka M 4.3 20:39 UT
190 2258 2310 2315 C5.2 (January 16, 2026) 3.4E-03
Oaxaca M 4.4 23:05 UT
200 2325 2330 2336 C2.8 (January 16, 2026) 1.8E-03
Honshu M 3.8 23:27 UT
Komandorsky M 5.2 23:22
Seram M 5.1 23:50 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 19, 2026 minor storms January 17-18. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies: global: 26, high: 66, mid-latitude: 17, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 8; Sunspot Number: 144; Radio Flux: 148
A moderate M2.2 solar flare occurred on January 17 beginning at about 10:07 UT.
Areas most susceptible to SFE from this flare are located near 30 East longitude
and include areas of Greece and Turkey which are at local solar noon at
the time of this flare. Expected enhanced seismicity in this region in the next
day. The area at local solar midnight at 150 West longitude includes
southern Alaska and Hawaii. Enhanced seismicity in this area is also possible
at this time.
The geomagnetic field for January 15 was active with a G-1 geomagnetic
storm and Kp5-5.3 occurring late in the day. The maximum Kp at high latitudes
occurred between 17:00 and 20:00 UT with Kp of 8. The High latitude A index today
reached 66. The last time that high latitude kp reached 8 was on November 12, 2025.
The last day that the A-index was higher than today's was also November 13, 2025.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 16, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A electron flux abrupt change also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT. A second strong geomagnetic excursion followed
starting at about 03:20 UT as recorded on the GOES-18 magnetometer which is
situated over 137 West longitude. In the hour this excursion (which dropped
the measured geomagnetic field strength from about 125 nT to 40 nT - reducing
the field strength by near two-third), the strongest earthquake of the day occurred
under this satellite off the coast of Oregon with M 6.0.
Minor geomagnetic storms are expected begin late on January 16 and last through
January 18. These could trigger enhanced seismicity at high latitudes and
near the geomagnetic equator.
The occurrence of the new moon on January 18, 2026 is likely to help enable
moderate to strong seismicity in the next several days.
The new moon will arrive on January 18, 2026 at 19:52 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are near 118W and those at local solar midnight near 62E. In the west these include western North America including the western U.S. coast line and portions of the East Pacific Rise and in the east portions of the central Indian Ocean and Central Asia near Hindu Kush, Pakistan and Afghanistan among others. These areas are most likely to see tidal triggering in the next week. A large earthquake is possible in this time and tidal triggering is not limited to these regions but is most likely near local solar noon or local solar midnight.
A strong earthquake of M 6.0 occurred today in the region off the coast of
Oregon. NEIC reported it was felt along the coast of Oregon with intensity IV in
Port Orford; III in Neskowin, Portland, Sherwood, Otis, Siletz, Seal Rock, Lake Oswego and Reedsport.
No tsunami was expected nor observed with this earthquake. The last earthquakes
off the coast of Oregon with M>=6 occurred as an M 6.0 on October 30, 2024 and an M 6.3 on October 29, 2019.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong M7.2 solar flare occurred today beginning as a C5.4 at 20:14 UT as the earthquake occurred
and continuing until about 21:14 UT as an M7.2 flare with the following
preliminary paramaters from SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
3390 2014 2022 2029 C5.4 (October 30, 2024) 5.5E-03
3410 2029 2053 2114 M7.2 (October 30, 2024) 1.1E-01
Off coast of Oregon M 6.0 20:15 UT
An earthquake of M 6.0 occurred minutes into the time of occurrence of these flare off the coast of Oregon.
This earthquake occurred within several minutes of local solar noon and was
likely triggered by Solar Flare Effects (SFE) from this flare which maximize near
local solar noon. It also occurred shortly about an hour after a strong Gamma Ray
Burst. Both the flare and the M 6.0-6.1 earthquake may have been triggered
by energy flux associated with the Gamma Ray Burst (GRB #241030). NEIC reported it was lightly felt in Oregon at Bandon, Coquille, Coos Bay, North Bend, Waldport, Newport, Veneta, Eugene, Tillamook, Albany, Tolovana Park, Salem, Astoria, Portland, Hood River, Vancouver, Ashford, Tacoma, Redmond, Lynnwood, Everett (IV), Washington, and in Crescent City, Redding, McKinleyville, Fortuna, California and perhaps as far as 1000 km from the epicenter in Central California. The parameters for this earthquake and a regional aftershock of
M 4.3 onshore in Oregon from EMSC are:
O: 30OCT2024 20:15:19 43.4N 127.8W ML=6.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
O: 30OCT2024 20:16:19 44.6N 120.5W ML=4.3 EMSC OREGON
The last earthquakes within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=6 occurred
with M 6.3 on August 29, 2019 and M 6.2 on August 22, 2018. Only one other such
event has hit the area in the past 15 years - an M 6.0 on April 11, 2012.
At the time of the 2019 event this summary noted:
"This is the strongest earthquake off the coast of Oregon within about 250
km of this epicenter in more than 10 years - since an M 6.3 on January 10, 2008
and prior to that an M 6.3 on January 16, 2003. The only event in the region
with greater magnitude in the past 30 years was an M 6.9 on July 13, 1991." (August 29, 2019)
More recently on September 2, 2024 this summary reviewed recent seismicity in the area as:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.2 off the coast of Oregon.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 4.2 off the coast of Oregon was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Oregon in Portland.
This area has been relatively quiet in recent months. The last earthquake
of M>=4.2 occurred on May 4, 2024 with M 4.3. The last of significantly larger
magnitude was an M 5.7 on March 27, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.7 off the coast of
Oregon. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to III along the coast of Oregon,
especially in the Port Orford area. EMSC reported light shaking in Springfield, Oregon. A foreshock of M 3.0 hit the area within
minutes of local solar noon about 12 hours earlier and was felt in the Port Orford,
Oregon area. These earthquake occurred near local solar noon and
midnight and may have been promoted by tidal stresses with the full moon" (March 27, 2024, September 2, 2024)
Strong Earthquakes off the coast of Oregon and Northern California often occur together
in periods of regional activation of the west coast of the U.S. and Canada"( October 30, 2024)
This summary had suggested several possible precursors to this event in previous
issues. Some of these included:
"This earthquake in the Kuril Islands also occurred during a strong M3.3 class
solar flare. This flare occurred on the solar rim and had a major Coronal
Mass Emission associated with it. The sunspot region will continue
to rotate reaching an area directly in the center of the sun as seen from
earth around January 20-21. A major flare at that time from this sunspot
group could trigger additional seismicity. This will occur with the new
moon of January 18 (UT) which will see areas of coastal California at
local solar noon at its completion. The combination could promote a moderate
to strong earthquake ..."" (January 12, 2026)
"Some earthquakes occur at longitudes which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE." (Daily reminder in Solar Flare section of this summary)
(note that the area of Oregon was nearly at local solar noon at the time
of this flare).
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in east-central South Dakota was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of east-central South Dakota.
Earthquakes in this area have occasionally preceded larger global earthquakes
especially along the Western North American boundary and to a lesser extent
in the western Pacific Ring of Fire." (January 10, 2026)
"A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 14:00 UT when electron flux started
a steep increase. The A-index for the day of 32 is the highest A-value
since December 3, 2025 when it also reached 32-33. The storm reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 6.0 between 1800 and 2100 UT.
GOES magnetometers show a near doubling of field strength at the start o
the major storm at about 20:00-20:15 UT. Longitudes most likely to
see a seismic increase are at local solar noon and include areas near
120 West, including much of California. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 6.6 on December 3, 2025." (January 12, 2026)
It may also be of some interest that this event continues a series of significant
earthquake in the past several days at 44 North latitude including those
in Hokkaido, Japan and northern Italy.
This epicenter is at 147 degrees from TC Dudzai; and at the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 03:25:53 43.7N 128.0W MW=6.0 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
O: 16JAN2026 06:35:03 43.6N 127.9W ML=3.1 EMSC OFF COAST OF OREGON
The earthquake off the coast of Oregon was followed by an unusual earthquake
in the Gulf of Honduras off the east coast of northern Guatemala of M 5.2-5.4. This event
had been expected at this time as it occurred at the antipode of TC Jenna
as noted in earlier issues of this summary:
"Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 110 kts south of Sumatra exploding in size over the past day. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 16N 86W - an area of Honduras. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. It is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area around that time." (January 5, 2026)
"Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 18N 90W - an area of northern Guatemala. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. TC Jenna is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to northern Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area in the next two days." (January 6-7, 2026)
The earthquake in northern Guatemala and Honduras today was widely felt in Honduras and
Belize. NEIC reported intensity V in Honduras in Cortes at Puerto Cortes, Cofradia and San Pedro Sula; IV in Pena Blanca, Villanueva, Armenta, Choloma,ana Zaotal del Norte and in Punta Gorda, Toledo and Dangriga Stann Creek Belize.
EMSC reported moderat to strong shakin in Honduras at Choloma, Pena Blanca, El Zaotal del Norte, San Pedro Sula, El Progreso, Tela, Santa Barbara, Corozal, Coxen Hole, El Lolo and Tegucigalpa; in Belize at San Ignacio, Belize City, Punta Gorda, Placencia, Dangriga, Belmopan, Benque Viejo el Carmen, and in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala,
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Honduras or Guatemala
with equal or greater magnitude than M 5.2 occurred on August 2, 2022 with M 5.4
and as an M 5.2 on August 25, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual M 5.4 occurred today of the coast of Honduras. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity VI in Honduras at El Triunfo de la Cruz, Atlantida; IV in El Porvenir and III in Choloma, and La Jutosa, Cortes.
The mainshock was followed by several aftershocks of M 4.2 which were lightly felt in the same area.
A similar event within about 150 km of this epicenter occurred on April 10, 2013 (M 5.4). This is the strongest earthquake in Honduras since an M 6.0 on April 16, 2020 followed
by an aftershock of M 5.7 on August 10, 2020. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
A strong M 6.0 was also felt in the region north of Honduras today. NEIC reported maximum shaking V at Savannah Bight, Jose Santos, Monte Placentero; IV in Roatan Islas, Sandy Bay, Trujilo Colon, Nueva Armenia, Jutiapa, Utila Islas and Corozal, Honduras.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter north of Honduras
since an M 7.3 on May 28, 2009. An M 7.6 also hit slightly outside this zone
in Honduras on January 10, 2018 and like the event in northern Colombia two days
ago at 104 degrees from the M 6.8 in eastern Turkey of January 24. It is part of an activation of Central America which began in northern Colombia
two days ago as noted in this summary:
"Further moderate to large seisicity in the region of Central and South America
is likely as the new moon approaches. In the absence of other important
triggers to seismicity such as geomagnetic storms, major earthquakes and
tropical cyclones, the tidal factors tend to dominate earthquake triggering and
these are strongest near the full moon (around April 23)." (April 15-26, 2020)
(April 17, 2020, August 2, 2022)
This epicenter is near the fourth node from Kamchatka and 105 degrees from
Hokkaido, Japan and may have been promoted by enery from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 06:08:45 15.7N 88.2W MW=5.2 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 06:28:16 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.5 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 06:52:45 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.5 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 07:10:46 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.0 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 07:44:09 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.2 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
O: 16JAN2026 07:54:06 15.8N 88.1W ML=3.5 EMSC GULF OF HONDURAS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in northern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Chile in Arica, Tarapaca.
O: 16JAN2026 07:34:37 17.6S 70.2W MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in northern Colombia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Colombia with III in La Calera, Cundinamarca and II in La Capilla, Boyaca and Armenia, Quindio.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Colombia at San Gil, Chiqinquira, Soacha, Itagui.
Like the Oregon event today (see above) this epicenter is at 144 degrees
from TC Dudzai and from Taiwan and at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 16JAN2026 07:05:28 6.8N 73.0W MB=4.9 EMSC NORTHERN COLOMBIA
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 4.9 in Guerrero, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guerrero, Mexico with IV in Acapulco, and II in the states of Pueble, Oaxaca, Mexico, Veracruz, and in Mexico City.
EMSC reported moderat shaking in Mexico at Tres Palos, Chilpancingo, Ciudad de Huitzico, Colonia Milpillas, Xochimilco, Benito Juarez, Los Reyes Acaquilpan, Venustiano Carranza, Villa Hermosa, Santiago Teyahualco.
O: 16JAN2026 06:42:56 16.8N 99.5W MB=4.9 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 08:21:36 16.8N 99.6W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in New Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of New Mexico at Carlsbad.
O: 15JAN2026 23:31:28 32.0N 103.8W ML=2.0 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 01:21:45 32.0N 103.8W ML=2.0 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 08:50:30 32.5N 104.7W ML=3.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 09:04:47 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 10:10:10 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.6 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 13:27:22 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.7 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 00:31:01 32.5N 104.6W ML=3.4 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 03:45:52 32.5N 104.6W ML=2.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 16JAN2026 05:18:46 32.5N 104.6W ML=3.3 EMSC NEW MEXICO
O: 15JAN2026 09:15:56 32.6N 104.6W ML=3.3 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Salinas, Carmel Valley, Pebble Beach, Monterey and II in Salinas, Hollister, San Ramon, and Gonzales.
O: 16JAN2026 02:24:54 36.7N 121.3W MW=3.3 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Northern Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Chile in Iquique, Tarapaca with intensity IV and in Arica with III.
EMSC also reported moderate shaking in Iquique and Arica, Chile.
O: 16JAN2026 02:13:23 19.8S 70.1W MW=5.0 EMSC TARAPACA, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco, California with III in Tracy and II in Milpitas, Fremont, San Jose, Santa Cruz, Alameda.
O: 15JAN2026 14:54:41 37.5N 121.6W ML=3.0 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay at Mandalay and Meiktila.
EMSC reported light shaking in Myanmar at Meiktila, Kyaukse, Nyaungshwe, Yamenthin, Sagaing, Indein, Puin Oo Lwin, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, Raunggyi, Syriam and in Thailand at Chiang Mai.
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from TC Dudzai and Hokkaido, Japan
and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference from those
two sources.
O: 15JAN2026 12:12:18 21.1N 96.0E MB=4.9 EMSC MYANMAR
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Taiwan in Yilan and Taoyuan, Taipei.
O: 16JAN2026 03:09:32 24.4N 122.0E ML=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-16 00:00 UT 17.4S 68.9E 110 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 110 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 112W is in the Revillo Gigedo Island area of western Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California. Current path projections for this storm show it reaching an area antipodal to western Los Angeles, California at 35N 119W around January 22, 2026 with winds up to 75 kts. Previous observations have shown enhanced seismicity in the region of Bakersfield and possibly Los Angeles is likely at that time. This could include a moderate-sized earthquake in southern California near that date.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NOKEAN 2026-01-16 00:00 UT 12.5N 127.0E 45 kts East of Central Philippines
Tropical Depression Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area east of northern Mindanao, Philippines with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 12S 53W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 15, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9860 0620 0636 0700 C9.7 (January 15, 2026) 1.6E-02
Papua M 4.2 06:18 UT
Southern Alaska M 3.7 06:28 UT
Dead Sea M 4.2 07:00 UT
9870 1245 1252 1256 C2.3 (January 15, 2026) 1.2E-03
Banda M 4.1 12:56 UT
9890 1308 1314 1316 C1.6 (January 15, 2026) 8.4E-04
9920 1847 1853 1855 C1.4 (January 15, 2026) 7.3E-04
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 16, 2026 minor storms January 17-18. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 5% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 12, high: 17, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 08:00 UT; Max AP: 4; Sunspot Number: 123; Radio Flux: 139
A electron flux abrupt change also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT, the strongest earthquake of the day.
Minor geomagnetic storms are expected begin late on January 16 and last through
January 18. These could trigger enhanced seismicity at high latitudes and
near the geomagnetic equator.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 15, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In the previous issue of this summary the following observations were made:
"A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:20 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment." (January 14, 2026)
The earthquake of M 5.6 in Hokkaido is the strongest in that region within
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hokkaido, Japan may have been felt with intensity up to IV in Akkeshi, Japan.
This is the strongest earthquake in Hokkaido within about 200 km since an M 5.8 on October 24, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.8-5.9 in Hokkaido, northern
Japan. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in Sibetsu, Hokkaido.
JMA reported intensity up to V (Japanese intensity scale maximizes at 7) in several areas of eastern Hokkaido and lesser intensity in eastern Hokkaido within about 150 km of the epicenter.
There was some minor damage reported but no major damage or tsunami with
this earthquake. Video of the shaking can be found on the web. The last earthquake
in Hokkaido within about 200 km of today's epicenter of M>=5.9 was an M
6.0 on June 21, 2025 and an M 5.9 on June 18, 2025. At the time this summary
noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.9-6.1 hit the region of Hokkaido, Japan today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity I in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. No tsunami was observed nor expected." (June 18, 2025)
The last earthquake of significantly larger magnitude in Hokkaido in this
area occurred as an M 6.7 on January 14, 2016. At the time this summary noted:
The earthquake in Hokkaido, Japan was reported with maximum intensity V in Aomori at Misawa and IV in Aomori, Hachinohe, in Hokkaido at Obihiro, Sapporo and Shizunai. Intensity II-III was
NEIC also reported felt activity from central Honshu Prefectures of Tokyo; Miyashiro, Saitama, Wakuya, Sendai, Miyagi, Yokohama, Kanagawa; Morioka, Iwate, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, Otofuke, Kitahiroshima, Iwanai, Hakodate, Chitose, Asahikawa, Hokkaido; Fukushima; Narita, Chiba, Hokkaido, Japan.
NEIC also reported a second earthquake of M 6.7 about a minute earlier in
Hokkaido. NEIC reported this was felt with intensity V in Obihiro, Hokkaido and IV in Aomori, Misawa and Sapporo. It was also felt with intensity II-III up to 1000 km away in Settsu, Osaka and 750 km in Tokyo. Also reported with intensity II-III in Hachinohe, Iwanai, Morioka, and Sendai, Japan.
Tidal stresses may have helped promote this earthquake. The occurrence was
within about an hour of local solar midnight, a prime time for tidal stresses
to promote seismicity. ... The last earthquake within about 200 km of this
epicenter with M>=6.7 occurred on March 14, 2012 with M 7.0. No tsunami was
reported with today's earthquake." (January 14, 2016)
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar midnight and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour." (October 24, 2025)
O: 14JAN2026 22:13:13 42.7N 145.5E ML=5.6 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 14JAN2026 23:18:19 37.6N 95.3E ML=5.0 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
An abrupt change in electron flux also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT, the strongest earthquake of the day.
NEIC reported the earthquake in the Rat Islands may have been felt with intensity
up ot IV in the area of Attu Station, Alaska. The last earthquake in the Rat Islands
within about 200 km of today's epicenter with M>=5.9 occurred as an M 5.9 on August 28, 2025 but
the lawst of larger magnitude was an M 6.3 on December 14, 2022. At the time
this summary noted:
"Two strong earthquakes occurred in the world today - an M 6.3 in the Rat Islands, Aleutians, Alaska
and an M 6.0-6.2 in Taiwan. This activity coincided with a major increase in
strong solar flares with several M-class solar flares recorded including an M6.3
(flare 200) and an M4.5 (flare 450). The M6.3 is the strongest since an M8.7 on October 2, 2022 (flare 6640).
An X1.0 also occurred on October 2, 2022 (Flare 6890), the only X-flare in the past
six monthsAn X1.0 also occurred on October 2, 2022 (Flare 6890), the only X-flare in the past
six months. It is likely that this solar activity helped promote today's
earthquakes which occurred near the geomagnetic equator and at high latitudes
- regions where SFE is a likely seismic trigger.
...
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada or the world today was an M 6.3
in the Rat Islands, Aleutians, Alaska. It was not reported felt in this remote
region. A smaller earthquake of M 5.3 hit the Rat Islands on December 10, 2022.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.3 in the Rat Islands, Aleutians, Alaska. It was not reported felt in this remote epicentral area.
The last earthquake with M>=5.3 in the Rat Islands was an M 6.3 half a year
ago on June 4, 2022. At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"The event of M 6.3 in the Rat Islands was not reported felt in this remote area.
This is the strongest earthquake in the Rat Islands since an M 6.4 on April 2, 2019.
These appear to be aftershocks of the M 7.9 that hit about 50 km southeast of today's epicenter
on June 23, 2014. Today's event occurred near local solar noon and was likely
promoted by high tidal stresses which maximize near this hour. It may also have
been promoted by the recent geomagnetic storm." (June 5, 2022, December 14, 2022)
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole; and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and 108 degrees from TC Dudzai
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 08:52:45 51.7N 176.7E MB=5.9 NEIC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 15JAN2026 08:52:45 51.7N 176.7E mb=5.6 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
During this electron flux excursion moderate earthquakes occurred in New Mexico (M 3.5);
the Ionian Sea south of Italy (M 4.4); San Juan, Argentina (M 4.9) and Guerrero,
Mexico (M 4.0).
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in the Dead Sea region was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Dead Sea region with III in Bet Shemesh, Jerusalam and II in Gazzah and Za'tarah Bayt Lahm, Palestine.
EMSC reported it was felt in the Dead Sea region in Israel at Arad, Dimona, Beersheva, 'Omer, Bet Shemesh, West Jerusalem, Sederot, Ashkelon, Gedera, Rehovot, Rishon LeZiyyon, Yehud, Ramat Gan, Kokhav Ya'ir, Hadera, Haifa; in Beirut, Lebanon and in Jordan at Al Mazar al Janubi, Isra, At Tafilah, Qir Moav, Al Jubayhah, Amman, Al 'Abdalli, Wadi as Sir, Ma'an, and in Palestine at Khallat Hamamah among others.
The last earthquake in the Dead Sea region with M>=4.3 within about 200 km
of today's event was an M 4.7 on July 4, 2018 and events of M 4.5 and M 4.6 on November 20 and 23, 2007/
At the time of the event in July, 2018 this summary noted:
"Seismicity in the area of the eastern Mediterranean Sea remained at high levels today.
This included an M 4.8 in the Dead Sea area of Israel, the strongest in the current
swarm and an M 5.0 in Albania, an unusually large quake for Albania.
The swarm of earthquakes in Israel in the Dead Sea area continued and enhanced today with
an M 4.8. NEIC reported it was felt in Israel in Hazafon with intensity IV in Eilabun, Yavne'el, Rame, Zefat, Rosh Pinna, Shagor, Hazor HaGelilit. Lesser shaking of II-III was felt in Israel at Nazerat Illit, Nazerat, Iksal, Sajur, Ilut, Karmiel, Neink Peqi'in, Sulam, Timrat, Kisra-Sumei, Afula, Jish, Tuba-Zangariyye, Hazor HaGelilit, Kefar Weradim, Qiryat Tiv'on, Yoqnw'qm Illit, in Haifa at Rekhasim, in Jordan at al-Mugayyir and al-Mansiyah, and in general within about 200 km of the epicenter. It was also reported felt in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Jordan.
The last earthquake of M>=4.8 in the Dead Sea region was an M 5.1 on February 15, 2008
more than 10 years ago." (July 4, 2018)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
CD Dudzai; the fourth node (90 degrees) from Mindanao and Yukon, Canada
and may at the third node (120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic pole
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 07:00:26 31.1N 35.3E ML=4.3 EMSC DEAD SEA REGION
An earthquake of M 4.4 in Southern California today was the strongest event
in the continental U.S. today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in
El Centro, California. Several lighter foreshocks and aftershocks accompanied
the mainshock. An M 3.5 foreshock was felt with intensity IV in California at Holtville, III in Brawley, El Centro, Imperial and II in Heber and in Mexicali, Baja California.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Mexicali, Baja California and in Lomas de Abolo, Ejido el Choropo, Mexico
and in Yuma, Arizona with a loud rumble. Strong aftershock sequences in this
area of southern California often include a second moderate earthquake.
This event continues an exceptionally active period of seismicity throughout
California including an M 4.4 in northern California yesterday (see previous
summary issue for details). This is the strongest earthquake in southern California within about 100 km
of today's epicenter since an M 5.5 on January 23, 2025. The last event of significantly
lare magnitude in the region was an M 4.9 on May 12, 2024 followed by an M 4.6
afterhock on May 12 and again on June 5, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.9-5.0 in Baja California
near the border with California (US), It was widely felt with intensity up to
VI in the region of Delta, Baja California, Mexico. EMSC reported light to moderate
shaking in Southern California in Calexico, El Centro, Carlsbad, Oceanside, in Arizona at Yuma; Holtville and in Baja California in Mexicali.
Numerous foreshocks and aftershocks were felt in the Delta Baja California region of Mexico with light to moderate intensity (II-IV).
The M 4.9 is the strongest earthquake in Baja within about 200 km of this event in more than three years.
An M 4.8 hit the same epicenter on March 31, 2021. The series began with a
light event of M 2.4 that occurred at the height of the strongest solar flare
of the day - an X1.0 which peaked at 16:35 UT. An earthquake of M 3.9 off the
coast of Honshu, Japan also occurred with the peak of this X1.0 class flare
at 16:37 UT. A similar simultaneity of the foreshock to this event occurred
with M 4.1 on May 8, 2024 and an X-class solar flare. At the time this summary noted
this as:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.1 on the
border between Southern California and Baja California. This earthquake
was closely associated with a series of strong solar flares beginning
with flare 270 (C9.3) around 01:00 UT and ending with flares 280 and 290 (about 01:15-01:35 UT) - an X1.0 class flare.
It is likely it was promoted by SFE from those sources. (May 8, 2024, May 12, 2024)
It may be of some interest that the earthquake in the Dead Sea (see above) and
the similar earthquake in Southern California occurred near the same latitude (31.1 north latitude).
An earlier M 3.5 in Baja California was also at 31.1 degrees north latitude.
An M 3.5 in New Mexico was also at this latitude today (32.5N).
Today's earthquake in Southern California occurred near local solar midnight
and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
This epicenter is at 101 degrees from Taiwan and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North
Geomagnetic Pole and from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 09:54:37 32.8N 115.5W ML=4.4 NEIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 15JAN2026 09:54:37 32.8N 115.5W ML=4.3 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Jalisco, Mexico was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Jalisco, Mexico with III in Puerto Vallarta and II in Bucerias, Nayarit, Mexico.
EMSC gave this event M 4.1 and noted it was strongly felt with a loud earthquake noise in Jalisco, Mexico
at Boca de Tomatlan, Boca Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta, Las Jarretaderas, Las Juntas, Mexico.
This epicenter is near the antipode of Tropical Cyclone Dudzai as reported
in previous issues of this summary:
"Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 85 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 104W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far noth as the Gulf of California." (January 14, 2026)
This earthquake in Jalisco, Mexico follows two moderate events of M 4.4 and M 4.4
north of this in the Gulf of California that occurred earlier in the day. These
events were not reported to have been felt. These were also likely promoted by
antipodal effects from TC Dudzai (see above).
In addition to being antipodal to TC Dudzai this area is also at the third node
(120 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole and from Taiwan and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 15JAN2026 03:32:27 18.0N 103.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE MICHOACAN, MEXICO
O: 14JAN2026 13:18:50 20.5N 105.3W ML=4.1 EMSC JALISCO, MEXICO
O: 14JAN2026 07:40:37 23.5N 108.5W ML=4.4 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
O: 14JAN2026 06:50:42 23.6N 108.5W ML=4.4 EMSC GULF OF CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in New Mexico may have been felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Hope, New Mexico.
While the Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico has seen active seismicity
in recent years, this epicenter is not associated with much of that as
it is located about 100 km north and west of the most active seismic sites.
The last earthquake in this area of M>=3.5 was an M 3.5 on October 16, 2025.
The last of larger magnitude was an M 4.0 and M 3.9 on February 23 and 24, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual earthquake of M 4.0 occurred today in New Mexico near the border with
western Texas in the Permian Basin. NEIC reported these earthquakes of M 4.0 and 2.8 in Western Texas were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Texas in Atoka, New Mexico.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Artesia. This event is somewhat unusual as most activity in this region in recent
years has been occurring about 100 km to the south of today's epicenter.
The last earthquake with M>=4 within about 100 km of today's epicenter was an M 4.0 on July 19, 2021 about
100 km southeast of today's event. Two events hit within about 50 km on March 28 and May 31, 2010. The
only event of larger magnitude than M 4.0-4.1 in the region in the past 35 years
was an M 5.0 about 150 km to the southeast on January 2, 1992.
It is likely that today's event was promoted by SFE from the X6.3 flare
along with tidal stresses from the full moon of February 24." (February 23-24, 2024)
This epicenter is at the third node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and
may have been promoted by energy associated with that location.
O: 15JAN2026 08:50:31 32.5N 104.7W ML=3.5 EMSC NEW MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Argentina in Mendoza.
O: 15JAN2026 08:30:14 31.5S 68.9W MB=4.9 EMSC SAN JUAN, ARGENTINA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Eastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Eastern Honshu, Japan with III in Takayama, Gifu and Nagano and II in Okazaki, Aichi.
O: 15JAN2026 05:40:16 36.3N 137.7E MW=4.7 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 15JAN2026 05:48:05 36.3N 137.8E Mw=5.1 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 15JAN2026 05:43:30 36.4N 137.6E ML=4.3 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 north of San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of north of San Francisco, California with III in Napa and Sacramento and II in Winters.
O: 14JAN2026 15:48:16 38.6N 122.2W MD=2.8 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 14JAN2026 20:48:52 38.5N 122.3W MD=2.1 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Guatemala was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guatemala in San Marcos la Laguna, Solola.
O: 14JAN2026 11:44:26 13.5N 91.6W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE GUATEMALA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-15 00:00 UT 17.3S 75.2E 115 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 115 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 18N 104W is in Jalisco and Michoacan, Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far north as the Gulf of California.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION NOKAEN (1W)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD NOKEAN 2026-01-15 00:00 UT 10.0N 128.9E 40 kts East of Central Philippines
Tropical Depression Nokaen (1W) continued today in the area east of northern Mindanao, Philippines with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 10N 51W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 14, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9670 0334 0350 0354 C9.6 (January 14, 2026) 4.4E-03
Siberia M 4.5 03:44 UT
9680 0409 0416 0424 C2.5 (January 14, 2026) 2.0E-03
9710 0625 0628 0630 C1.2 (January 14, 2026) 5.5E-04
Oaxaca M 4.0 06:27 UT
Myanmar M 4.0 06:26 UT
Gulf of California M 4.4 06:50 UT
9770 0945 0953 0957 C1.8 (January 14, 2026) 1.1E-03
Oaxaca M 4.2 09:47 UT
Washington State M 2.4 09:55 UT
9810 1607 1617 1625 C3.6 (January 14, 2026) 2.9E-03
Fiji M 4.5 16:21 UT
9820 2010 2033 2052 M1.6 (January 14, 2026) 2.3E-02
New Guinea M 4.2 20:30 UT
Kuril M 5.1 20:36 UT
iSan Francisco M 2.2 21:01 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 15 quiet January 16, 2026 minor storms January 17. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 7, high: 10, mid-latitude: 5, time of max AP: 14:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 70; Radio Flux: 127
A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:10 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment.
A electron flux abrupt change also occurred on January 15, 2026 peaking at
about 08:50 UT on the GOES-18 instrumentation. This was followed by an M 5.9
earthquake in the Rat Islands at 08:52 UT, the strongest earthquake of the day.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 14, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:20 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment. more on these in the next issue
of this summary.
O: 14JAN2026 22:13:13 42.7N 145.5E ML=5.6 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 14JAN2026 23:18:19 37.6N 95.3E ML=5.0 EMSC NORTHERN QINGHAI, CHINA
The most unusual earthquake in the world today was an M 4.6 in northern Italy near Fornace Zarattini.
NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity IV in Emilia-Romagna, Ital at Forli and Cesena and III in Bagnacavallo and Ravenna and in Serravalle, San Marino.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Italy at Roncadello, Faenza, Forli, Lugo, San Potito, Carpena, Castel Bolognese, Madonna Dell'Albero, Ravenna, Brisighella, Imola, Lido Adriano, Cesena, Punta Maria, Toscanella, Galeata, Gatteo-Sant'Angelo, Rimini, Falciano, Montelabbate among others. It was felt as far as Croatia and Slovenia.
An M 4.2 aftershock occurred minutes later and was also felt in the same area.
This earthquake occurred in late morning, local solar time. It is the strongest
earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Northern Italy since an
M 5.1 on September 18, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"An unusually large M 5.1 struck the area of Northern Italy today. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity IV in San Godenzo, Toscana, Brisighella Emilia-Romagna, Castrocaro Terme and Terra del Sole and Forli with lesser shaking in Borgo, San Lornzo, Scarperia, Riolo Terme, Pontassieve and Imola among others.
This is the strongest earthquake in northern Italy within about 200 km of
this epicenter since an M 5.6 about 200 km to the east on November 9, 2022 but the
last within about 100 km of today's epicenter was an 6.1 on May 20, 2012 and and M 5.5
aftershock on May 29, 2012. At the time of the May 20, 2012 event this summary noted:
"Three strong earthquakes of M 5.8-6.1 hit in the world today and were probably
triggered by tidal forces associated with the upcoming solar eclipse which
will occur later today. The most widely felt and damaging of today's events
occurred as an M 6.1 in northern Italy ...
The last earthquake in northern Italy of similar or larger magnitude (and the only such
event in the past 22 years) was an M 6.4 on September 26, 1997." (May 20, 2012, September 18, 2023)
This epicenter is located at 102 degrees from Mindanao and at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Yukon, Canada as well as at 143 degrees from the South Geomagnetic
pole and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 08:27:59 44.3N 12.0E MB=4.6 EMSC NORTHERN ITALY
O: 13JAN2026 08:29:18 44.3N 12.0E ML=4.2 EMSC NORTHERN ITALY
O: 14JAN2026 07:16:18 44.4N 12.0E ML=2.7 EMSC NORTHERN ITALY
A strong M 6.2 (EMSC) to Mb 7.0 (RSSC - the local Russian Seismic Network) occurred today in the southern Kuril Islands
east of Hokkaido, Japan. News reports indicated it was lightly felt in the
general remote epicentral area near Kuril'sk, Russia. The last earthquake of M>=6.2
within about 200 km of this epicenter occurred as an M 6.5 on December 28, 2023. At
the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.5 in the Kuril Islands. NEIC reported
that three people reported feeling this earthquake with intensity up to VI mainly in the northeastern parts of Sapporo, Japan and in Kuril'sk, Russia.
The last earthquake in the Kuril Islands within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred on February 13, 2020 and prior to that as an M 6.7 on May 25, 2001. A great earthquake
hit the area with M 8.3 on October 4, 1994 nearly 30 years ago. Strong aftershocks
continued through February 1997." (December 28, 2023)
"Today's event of M 7.0 in the Kuril Islands is the strongest quake recorded in the
Southern Kuril Islands in near seven years - since an M 7.2 on April 19, 2013 and prior to that an M 7.3 on November 17, 2002." (February 13, 2020, December 28, 2023)
Today's event continues the series of events in the Kuril Islands reported in the previous issue of this summary.
It is consistent with the forecast of January 4, 2026 for the next strong
earthquake in the series as reiterated in the previous issue as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai and the
eighth node (45 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
This earthquake may have been promoted by SFE from a moderate B9 solar flare
as it occurred at the maximum output of that flare. Several aftershocks
were also apparently related to subsequent solar flares (see flare list
in this summary). Data on this flare (#9550 B9.2) from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9550 0730 0733 0738 B9.2 (January 13, 2026) 4.9E-04
Kuril Islands M 6.2 07:34 UT
Fiji M 4.6 07:38 UT
It may be of some interest that the earthquake in Italy (see above) occurred
at the same latitude as the swarm in the Kuril Islands (44.3-44.5 North latitude).
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:08 44.7N 149.2E MW=6.2 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 08:51:34 44.5N 149.4E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 09:39:43 44.5N 149.3E mb=4.4 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 09:54:32 44.5N 149.2E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 08:22:32 44.6N 149.3E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:08 44.6N 149.3E MW=6.2 EMSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:07 45.3N 149.7E MB=7.0 RSSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
The most widely felt earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today ocurred in northern
California near Willits with M 4.4. It was reported by NEIC to have been felt with
intensity V in Redwood Valley; IV in Potter Valley, Willits, upper Lake, Philo; III in Pittsburg, Hopland, Ukiah, Hidden Valley Lark and Yorkville.
EMSC reported it as a strong but short shaking in California at Willits, Laytonville, Fort Bragg, and Lakeport.
An aftershock of M 3.8 was reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity IV in California at Redwood Valley; III in Potter Valley, Point Arena, Willits, Ukiah and II in San Jose and Philo.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter in Northern California
with M>=4.4 occurred on June 18, 2023 also with M 4.4. Three other events in this area
have occurred with M 4.4 in the past 19 years but the strongest earthquake in
the area since 2000 was an M 4.8 on April 18, 2007. i
At the time of the previouis M 4.4 this summary noted in this regard:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.4 in Northern Canada. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Lakeport, Upper Lake, Nice and III in Ukiah, Hopland, Yorkville, Boonville, Lucerne and Redwood Valley among others.
The last earthquake in the Lake Country of Northern California (not including
seismicity in the Geysers area) with M>=4.4 occurred on 4.4 on December 6, 2020 and an M 4.5 on September 25, 2012. The
only event in the area in the pat 35 years of significantly larger magnitude than M 4.4 was an M 4.8
on April 18, 2007." (June 18, 2023)
Several faults including the San Andreas run through this area and could produce
major earthquakes if they rupture along the length of the fault.
This epicenter is located at 101 degrees from Mindanao; at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Taiwan and at the seventh node from the North Geomagnetic Pole and Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 21:10:54 39.4N 123.3W MW=4.4 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 13JAN2026 22:51:55 39.4N 123.2W Mw=3.5 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 14JAN2026 04:42:45 39.8N 123.3W MD=2.9 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in San Francisco Bay, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco Bay, California with III in Burlingame, San Bruno and Pacifica and II in South San Francisco and Daly City.
An earlier shock of M 2.2 was also lightly felt at the same epicenter.
This event occurred near local solar noon in the ongoing series of earthquakes
in this area near this hour (see above for description of the Lake Country
M 4.4 in California today for further example).
O: 14JAN2026 02:00:56 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 13JAN2026 22:35:34 37.6N 122.5W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California with IV in Mecca and II in Palm Springs.
O: 14JAN2026 00:56:14 33.6N 115.9W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 13JAN2026 22:42:02 33.5N 115.9W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in eastern Greater Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern Greater Los Angeles, California with III in Moreno Valley, Redlands, Riverside, Moreno Valley, Grand Terrace, and II in Bloomington.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have been
triggered by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
O: 13JAN2026 21:33:25 34.0N 117.2W ML=2.7 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of central California in Palmdale, Edwards and Littlerock.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have been
triggered by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
O: 13JAN2026 20:20:28 35.3N 117.8W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 13JAN2026 18:38:15 35.3N 117.8W ML=2.0 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
P: 14JAN2026 178785 35.9N 117.7W 2.5-4.4 AAAAA So. California
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in central California near San Simeon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of in central California near San Simeon in Nipomo and Templeton.
O: 13JAN2026 13:07:03 35.8N 121.2W MD=2.6 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in North Island, New Zealand was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of North Island, New Zealand with III in Palmerston North and II in Kapiti, Wellington.
GeoNet reported the following parameters for this earthquake:
O: 13JAN2026 21:31:33 40.6S 176.1E ML=4.7 GEONET Felt with moderate to light intensity in the area southeast of Wellington, New Zealand and in southern North Island and northern South Island. 2391 reports of felt events were made of which 1445 reported weak and 828 light intensity with 105 reports of moderate shaking and 7 with strong and 0 severe and 6 with extreme intensity came from the area.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter with M>=4.9 occurred on January 28, 2025 with
M 5.1. At the time this summary noted:
"Minutes after the unusual earthquake of M 4.7 northwest of New Zealand an M 5.1 was widely felt in the Manawatu-Wanganui region north of Wellington, New Zealand. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity V in Feilding and IV in Minatangi, Levin, Palmerston North, Rongotea, Wanganui, Masterton, Eketahuna, Taihape and in Wellington at Featherston, Kapiti, Otaki, Porirua and Upper Hutt. Also felt in south Island with intensity II at Cheviot, Centerbury.
and III in Hawke's Bay at Napier, Otane. The last earthquake within North Island
within about 150 km of this epicenter with M>=5.7 occurred on February 15, 2023 with M 5.7. This is an
unusual epicenter being about 100 km east of most of the activity in this region
of New Zealand. Unusual activity near 176E and east of that that tends to be confined
to northern North Island, New Zealand and is generally at intermediate dept. The
last such event felt widely in New Zealand was an M 5.9 on November 22, 2016. At
the time this summary noted:
"An M 5.4-5.6 aftershock also hit North Island near Hawke's Bay today which may have
been associated with the earthquake off Japan. This is not a classical aftershock
of the South Island earthquake a week ago. It was felt throughout the Hawke's
Bay area about 200 km northeast of Wellington. While tsunamis were not noted
or expected from this earthquake, seiche was observed in swimming pools in Porangahau Beach
according to multiple observations. A number of aftershocks were also recorded
by GeoNet. This appears to be an extension of the rupture of November 13-14 (M 7.9) to the northeast.
It was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses as it occurred within 5 minutes
of local solar noon, a prime time for tidal stresses in an area (see previous
reports) where tidal triggering of seismicity is common." (November 22, 2016, January 28, 2025)
O: 13JAN2026 10:21:32 40.6S 176.1E MB=4.9 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the Kuril Islands was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Kuril Islands in Severo-Kuril'sk, Russia.
O: 14JAN2026 03:08:58 50.8N 157.1E MB=5.1 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 20:17:03 49.9N 156.1E mb=4.2 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Pakistan at Upper Dir.
It occurred near local solar noon.
O: 13JAN2026 08:40:25 36.8N 71.3E MB=4.3 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-14 00:00 UT 17.2S 76.2E 85 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 85 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 104W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days as far noth as the Gulf of California.
TROPICAL DEPRESSION 1W
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TD 1W 2026-01-14 00:00 UT 9.3N 129.7E 40 kts East of Central Philippines
Tropical Depression 1W formed today in the area east of northern Mindanao, Philippines with winds up to 40 kts. It is expected to track to the to the west and to turn to the north over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the central Philippines is possible at this time. The antipode at 9N 51W is not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 13, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9550 0730 0733 0738 B9.2 (January 13, 2026) 4.9E-04
Kuril Islands M 6.2 07:34 UT
Fiji M 4.6 07:38 UT
9560 0913 0954 1015 C1.9 (January 13, 2026) 6.2E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.4 09:39 UT M 4.9 09:54 UT
So. Peru M 3.1 09:47 UT
9570 1015 1018 1020 C1.8 (January 13, 2026) 8.8E-04
North Is. New Zealand M 4.9 10:21 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 10:25 UT
9580 1202 1213 1235 C1.5 (January 13, 2026) 2.8E-03
9600 1609 1619 1622 C1.3 (January 13, 2026) 1.2E-03
9610 1622 1648 1657 C2.4 (January 13, 2026) 4.4E-03
9620 1854 1903 1914 C1.4 (January 13, 2026) 1.7E-03
Molucca Sea M 4.9 18:58 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled January 14-15 quiet January 16, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 10, high: 12, mid-latitude: 9, time of max AP: 11:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 49; Radio Flux: 117
A strong enhancement in electron flux at satellite altitudes occurred on
January 14, 2026 beginning at 22:13 and lasting through 23:10 UT. A minor increase in global
Kp was also registered at this time. The GOES magnetometers recorded a stron increase
in the intensity of the geomagnetic field of about 40% on GOES 18 at 137W longitude.
A slight increase in proton flux was also recorded at this time on Goes-18 instruments.
The strongest earthquake of the day - an M 5.6 in Hokkaido, Japan occurred at 22:13 UT -
consistent with triggering by the sudden commencement of this geomagnetic excursion.
An M 5.0 in Central China near Dunhuang, China that occurred at 23:18 UT on January 14, 2026 is also consistent with
triggering with change in geomagnetic environment.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 14, 2026 at 11:40:26 UT (#260114A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.0 occurred in Guatemala at 11:44 UT on January 14, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
An earthquake of M 4.9 occurred in Western Iran at 17:02 UT on January 11, 2026.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
January 13, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong M 6.2 (EMSC) to Mb 7.0 (RSSC - the local Russian Seismic Network) occurred today in the southern Kuril Islands
east of Hokkaido, Japan. News reports indicated it was lightly felt in the
general remote epicentral area near Kuril'sk, Russia. The last earthquake of M>=6.2
within about 200 km of this epicenter occurred as an M 6.5 on December 28, 2023. At
the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.5 in the Kuril Islands. NEIC reported
that three people reported feeling this earthquake with intensity up to VI mainly in the northeastern parts of Sapporo, Japan and in Kuril'sk, Russia.
The last earthquake in the Kuril Islands within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred on February 13, 2020 and prior to that as an M 6.7 on May 25, 2001. A great earthquake
hit the area with M 8.3 on October 4, 1994 nearly 30 years ago. Strong aftershocks
continued through February 1997." (December 28, 2023)
"Today's event of M 7.0 in the Kuril Islands is the strongest quake recorded in the
Southern Kuril Islands in near seven years - since an M 7.2 on April 19, 2013 and prior to that an M 7.3 on November 17, 2002." (February 13, 2020, December 28, 2023)
Today's event continues the series of events in the Kuril Islands reported in the previous issue of this summary.
It is consistent with the forecast of January 4, 2026 for the next strong
earthquake in the series as reiterated in the previous issue as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai and the
eighth node (45 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:08 44.6N 149.3E MW=6.2 EMSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
O: 13JAN2026 07:34:07 45.3N 149.7E MB=7.0 RSSC SOUTHERN KURIL ISLANDS
Less than six minutes before the earthquake in the southern Kurils an M 5.3 occurred
in northern Chile. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity III in Calama, Antofagasta and II in Iquique, Tarapaca, Chile.
O: 13JAN2026 07:28:22 21.3S 68.9W MW=5.3 EMSC NORTHERN CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii at Holualoa and Kailua Kona.
An unusual M 5.6 occurred 21 minutes earlier in the region of Easter Island
in the South Pacific. These two epicenters are separated by about 66 degrees -
the distance an S-phase and ScS phase body wave would traverse in 21 minutes.
The earthquake in Hawaii may have been promoted from the M 5.6 in the South Pacific.
At the same time an EMP was reported to have occurred and caused disruption
to several nuclear submarine systems. This is unconfirmed but if it occurred
a strong EMP could promoted seismicity under the right enviromental circumstances.
The earthquake in the Easter Island area is the strongest within about 200
km of that epicenter since an M 5.9 on June 18, 2018.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.9 on the Southeast Pacific Rise.
It was followed by an aftershock of M 4.9. The mainshock occurred within minutes
of local solar midnight, a prime time for tidal stresses and was probably
promoted by these. This is the strongest quake within about 200 km of this
epicenter in the Easter Island region since an M 5.9 on May 10, 2012. The strongest
quake in the area since 1990 was an M 6.2 on September 17, 2009." (June 18, 2018)
The epicenter in the South Pacific is located at the third node (120 degrees) from the North Geomagnetic Pole as well
Mindanao and Hokkaido, Japan and may hae been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 13JAN2026 04:00:47 19.5N 155.8W MW=2.9 EMSC HAWAII
O: 13JAN2026 03:39:27 29.8S 111.9W MW=5.6 EMSC EASTER ISLAND REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in the Texas Panhandle was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Texas Panhandle in Amarillo.
This is an active area for light earthquakes and continues a series in the
area which began on January 10, 2026 with an M 2.8. The last earthquake
in the area of significantly larger magnitude was an M 3.4 on August 14, 2023.
O: 12JAN2026 21:41:54 35.3N 101.8W ML=2.6 EMSC TEXAS PANHANDLE REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in northern Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Mindanao, Philippines at Purok, Caraga.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in northern Mindanao at San Isidro, General Luna and Surigao City.
O: 12JAN2026 16:48:25 10.0N 126.1E MB=4.8 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei, Ilan, and Taichung Counties, Taiwan.
O: 12JAN2026 13:31:49 24.7N 122.1E MW=4.6 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-13 00:00 UT 17.2S 77.6E 100 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today as a major storm in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 100 kts. It is expected to track to the south and turning to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 103W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days. The Revillo Gigedo Island group will be antipodal to TC Dudzai around January 17. This active region could see further enhancement at that time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 12, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9440 1003 1015 1022 C5.2 (January 12, 2026) 4.0E-03
South Sandwich Is. M 4.7 10:02 UT
Kep. Kai, Indonesia M 4.1 10:09 UT
9470 1242 1247 1254 C1.4 (January 12, 2026) 1.1E-03
Costa Rica M 4.4 12:49 UT M 4.2 12:52 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active January 13 unsettled January 14 quiet January 15, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 25% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 18, high: 24, mid-latitude: 14, time of max AP: 09:00 UT; Max AP: 5; Sunspot Number: 52; Radio Flux: 113
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 11, 2026 at 16:33:14 UT (#260111A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 12, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The geomagnetic storm which began late on January 10, 2026 (see previous issue for a summary)
continued today on January 11. A period of time from 18:00 to 22:00 UT was the
most intense with high latitude Kp reaching 6 for nine hour and Planetary
KP reaching 5.3 around 21:00 UT. Middle latitude Kps also were elevated, with the
daily Kp of 20. The last time the middle latitude Kp exceeded 20 was on December 4, 2025 with Kp 24.
Earthquakes of M 5.1 and M 5.6 in the Kuril Islands occurred during the height
of this geomagnetic storm and may have been triggered by it.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.6 in the southern Kuril Islands.
NEIC reported it was probably felt with intensity up to II in the area of Kuril'sk, Russia.
This event occurred within minutes of local solar noon and was probably
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
It is consistent with the regional forecast for this area made in an earlier
issue of this forecast for this time which read:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This earthquake in the Kuril Islands also occurred during a strong M3.3 class
solar flare. This flare occurred on the solar rim and had a major Coronal
Mass Emission associated with it. The sunspot region will continue
to rotate reaching an area directly in the center of the sun as seen from
earth around January 20-21. A major flare at that time from this sunspot
group could trigger additional seismicity. This will occur with the new
moon of January 18 (UT) which will see areas of coastal California at
local solar noon at its completion. The combination could promote a moderate
to strong earthquake in the currently active region near San Ramon, California.
This summary will keep readers advised on this possibility. SWPC data for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9370 2153 2314 0031 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01
9370 2153 2314 0200 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
Southern Peru M 4.2 21:51 UT
San Francisco M 2.5 21:44 UT
Ryukyu Is. M 4.7 23:50 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 23:53 UT
Baja California M 4.0 23:54 UT
Fox Is. M 4.1 00:06 UT
Hokkaido M 4.8 00:50 UT M 4.1 00:48 UT M 4.3 00:58 UT
Argentina M 4.4 00:57 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
The M 5.6 epicenter in the Kuril Islands today is located at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from TC Dudzai and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Mindanao and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 12JAN2026 01:52:57 47.7N 147.4E MW=5.6 EMSC NORTHWEST OF KURIL ISLANDS
The earthquake of M 5.6 in the Kuril Islands was not alone among moderate earthquakes
today in the area from Hokkaido, Japan to Kamchatka. A series of such events
occurred with the flare and geomagnetic storm which coincided.
Other events occurred in northern Honshu, Japan (M 4.1); the southern Kurils
(M 4.7, 4.4); Hokkaido, Japan (M 4.8, 4.1, 4.3); northwest of the Kuril Islands (M 5.6);
the northern Kurils (M 4.9, 5.1, 4.2, 4.9 and 4.4); Kamchatka (M 4.9, 4.2, 4.6, 4.5, 5.0)
and in northern Kamchatka M 4.9, 4.4). These events show that the entire
subduction zone from northern Honshu through Kamchatka was activated
simultaneously - probably by the combination flare and geomagnetic storm.
That this happened piecemeal with approximiately 200 km between each
outburst without a corresponding strong to major
event is highly unusual and suggests that the locked segments between those
activated today are tightly locked may prevent a mega-thrust earthquake from happening
soon.
O: 12JAN2026 03:14:30 38.3N 141.8E ML=4.1 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU,
O: 11JAN2026 17:35:56 43.3N 147.9E MB=4.7 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 17:14:42 43.5N 147.1E mb=4.4 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 12JAN2026 00:50:16 45.1N 142.2E MB=4.8 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 12JAN2026 00:48:30 45.0N 142.2E ML=4.1 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 12JAN2026 00:58:30 45.0N 142.2E ML=4.3 EMSC HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
O: 12JAN2026 01:52:57 47.7N 147.4E MW=5.6 EMSC NORTHWEST OF KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 07:29:50 49.2N 156.0E MB=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 19:37:55 49.3N 156.1E mb=5.1 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 12JAN2026 03:46:50 49.3N 156.2E mb=4.2 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 18:27:50 49.5N 156.1E mb=4.9 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 11JAN2026 16:13:18 50.0N 156.9E mb=4.4 EMSC KURIL ISLANDS
O: 12JAN2026 05:00:42 51.9N 158.5E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 11JAN2026 19:16:29 51.3N 159.9E mb=4.2 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 11JAN2026 09:02:48 51.5N 160.1E mb=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 11JAN2026 10:38:06 51.7N 159.4E mb=4.5 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 12JAN2026 06:21:44 52.8N 159.3E MB=5.0 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported these earthquake were lightly felt in Russia at Yelizovo and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
O: 12JAN2026 05:04:07 56.0N 162.8E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 12JAN2026 05:35:22 55.6N 162.6E mb=4.4 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
Activation of seismicity was not limited to the Pacific Northwest quadrant. In the
U.S. and Mexico a series of earthquakes including an M 4.0 occurred near the
U.S./Mexico border in Baja California. These were closely associated with
the M3.3 solar flare as well as the day's geomagnetic storm and were
likely triggered by them. NEIC reported they were likely felt with intensity
up to II in the epicentral area near Maneadero, Baja California, Mexico.
These epicenters are at 60.0 degrees (node 6) from the North Geomagnetic
Pole and from Kamchatka and at 102 degrees from Taiwan and were likely
promoted by constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 10:37:13 31.4N 115.6W ML=3.2 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 22:35:41 31.4N 115.2W ML=3.0 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 22:18:13 31.5N 115.7W ML=3.3 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 23:54:23 31.6N 115.8W ML=3.9 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 12JAN2026 05:02:06 31.6N 115.7W ML=3.1 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 11JAN2026 08:12:51 32.8N 115.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Caliente, Frazier Park and II in Los Angeles, Tehachapi and Bakersfield.
This epicenter is located at 104 degrees from Mindanao and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 12JAN2026 07:02:46 35.1N 119.0W ML=3.1 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in eastern France near the Italy/Switzerland border occurred today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Rhone-alpes, France.
EMSC reported hard shaking in Courmayeur, Italy and in France at Les Contamines-Montjoie, La Bathie and in Troistorrents, and Les Avanchets, Switzerland.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this French epicenter
northwest of Turin, Italy since an M 4.5 on March 12, 2022. At the time this
summary noted:
"A moderate earthquake of M 4.5 was widely felt in the French Alps today. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in France in the Rhone-Alpes at Pallud, Cesarches, Tournon, and II-III in Faverges, Plancherine, Queige, Saint-Jorioz, La Balme-de-Thuy, Annecy and Villaz.
A lightly felt aftershock of M 3.8 also occurred about 18 minutes after the mainshock
Several light foreshocks of M 2.4 and 2.1 occurred prior to the mainshock beginning
atou three hours earlier. The last earthquake of M>=4.4 occurred as an M 4.4
on October 24, 2016, but the last of larger magnitude was an M 4.7-4.8 on April 7, 2014." (March 12, 2022)
Like the earthquake in Central California (See above) this epicenter is located
at 104 degrees from Mindanao and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Dudzai and Taiwan
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 12JAN2026 06:28:50 45.9N 6.8E ML=4.2 NEIC FRANCE
O: 12JAN2026 06:28:50 45.9N 6.8E ML=3.6 EMSC FRANCE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Hindu Kush, Afghanistan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hindu Kush, Afghanistan in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from TC Dudzai and the North Geomagnetic Pole
and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and Kamchatka and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 12JAN2026 03:18:16 36.5N 68.3E MB=4.2 EMSC HINDU KUSH REGION, AFGHANISTAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska in Chugiak.
O: 11JAN2026 23:37:21 61.7N 149.6W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco, California in Alameda, Antioch, Stockton and Brentwood.
This was likely triggered by the M3.3 solar flare today (see above).
O: 11JAN2026 21:44:25 38.0N 121.8W MD=2.5 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines in Dumlan.
O: 11JAN2026 17:28:01 7.3N 126.3E MB=4.7 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California at Placerville.
O: 11JAN2026 17:23:11 39.5N 120.3W MD=2.5 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.8 in Western Iran was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Western Iran with IV in Iraq at al-Haritlah, al-Basrah; III in Abu al-Hasib and in Kuwait in Hawalli.
EMSC reported it was felt with strong shaking in Iraq at Al Harithah, Al Basrah al Qadimah, Basrah, Al Madinah and in Kuwait at Kuwait City, As Salimiyah, Hawalli, Al Mahbulah, Ad Diwaniyah, Kasnazan.
This is an unusual earthquake, the largest recorded within about 150 km of
this epicenter in at least 35 year. Most such regional events occur about 150 km
to the north and east of today's epicenter. The last of these was an M 5.1 on February 16, 2025
about 150 km to the north of today's epicenter on February 16, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in Western Iran was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Western Iran at Ahwaz Khuzestan; II in Araq Markazi and possible in Kuwait.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Iran at Dorud County, Ilam, Esfahan.
A foreshock of M 4.4 was reported lightly felt in Iran in Dorud County and in Hamadan." (February 16, 2025)
The last earthquake of significantly larger magnitude in western Iran occurred
on December 5, 2024 with M 5.6 and was noted in this summary as:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.6 in Khuzestan, Iran. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V at Masjed Soleyman and Khurramabad, Lorestan withi IV felt in Ahwaz, Bandar-e Mah Shahr, Desful, Shushter, Khuzestan. It was also felt with intensity III in Kuwait at Salmiya, Abu Hulayfah, al-Manqaf, and Subhan Mubarak.
NEIC reported an aftershock of M 5.0 in Iran was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Iran at Ahwaz, Khuzestan.
The mainshock was followed by aftershocks of M 4.9 and 5.0 - both of which were
felt in the same epicentral area. The last earthquake of M>=5.6 within about
250 km of today's epicenter was an M 5.7 on July 8, 2019. At the time this
summary noted:
"The second largest earthquake of the day was an M 5.7 in Western Iran. NEIC reported maximum intensity VII in Iran at Khuzestan and lesser shaking within abotu 200 km of the epicenter,
It was accompanied by several moderate aftershocks. The last earthquake within about
250 km of this epicenter with M>=5.7 was an M 6.2 and aftershocks on August 18, 2014." (July 8, 2019)
Today's unusual epicenter located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from
the North Geomagnetic Pole; the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 17:02:39 31.0N 48.1E MB=4.9 EMSC WESTERN IRAN
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Myanmar in Idia at Imphal, Dimapur, Bokajan, Lumding Railway Colony, Sibsagar, Tezpur,Naharlagun, Tinsukia, amd Guwahati.
O: 11JAN2026 20:15:40 24.8N 95.1E MB=4.5 EMSC MYANMAR
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-12 00:00 UT 16.6S 77.8E 125 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai continued today as a major storm in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 125 kts. It is expected to track to the south and turning to the west over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 17N 103W is in Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity. Watch for enhanced seismicity in western Mexico in the next several days. The Revillo Gigedo Island group will be antipodal to TC Dudzai around January 17. This active region could see further enhancement at that time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 11, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
9270 1409 1418 1421 C3.0 (January 11, 2026) 9.7E-04
9370 2153 2314 0031 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01
Southern Peru M 4.2 21:51 UT
San Francisco M 2.5 21:44 UT
Ryukyu Is. M 4.7 23:50 UT
Banda Sea M 4.3 23:53 UT
Baja California M 4.0 23:54 UT
Fox Is. M 4.1 00:06 UT
Hokkaido M 4.8 00:50 UT M 4.1 00:48 UT M 4.3 00:58 UT
Argentina M 4.4 00:57 UT
9370 2153 2314 0200 M3.3 (January 11, 2026) 2.1E-01 *
Kuril Is. M 5.6 01:53 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: Major storms January 12 active January 13-14, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 31, high: 46, mid-latitude: 20, time of max AP: 18:00 to 22:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 84; Radio Flux: 111
The geomagnetic storm which began late on January 10, 2026 (see previous issue for a summary)
continued today on January 11. A period of time from 18:00 to 22:00 UT was the
most intense with high latitude Kp reaching 6 for nine hour and Planetary
KP reaching 5.3 around 21:00 UT. Middle latitude Kps also were elevated, with the
daily Kp of 20. The last time the middle latitude Kp exceeded 20 was on December 4, 2025 with Kp 24.
Earthquakes of M 5.1 and M 5.6 in the Kuril Islands occurred during the height
of this geomagnetic storm and may have been triggered by it.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 11, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 14:00 UT when electron flux started
a steep increase. The A-index for the day of 32 is the highest A-value
since December 3, 2025 when it also reached 32-33. The storm reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 6.0 between 1800 and 2100 UT.
GOES magnetometers show a near doubling of field strenght at the start o
the major storm at about 20:00-20:15 UT. Longitudes most likely to
see a seismic increase are at local solar noon and include areas near
120 West, including much of California. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 6.6 on December 3, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances. Additional seismic enhancement is possible in
South America and the Caribbean with this storm.
Earthquakes in the San Ramon series in northern California east of San Francisco
showed a surge late on January 10 and early on January 11 (UT) with the
geomagnetic storm (see above). These included earthquakes up to M 3.0 which
NEIC reported were felt with intensity IV in Danville and San Ramon, California and III in Dublin with II in Livermore, Alamo, Menlo Park, Union City, Pleasanton, San Francisco.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in San Ramon, Blackhawk, Dublin.
These epicenters are located at 102 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines and
at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 04:10:25 37.8N 122.0W ML=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 11JAN2026 04:21:07 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 11JAN2026 06:01:59 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 11JAN2026 06:43:52 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 6.4 in the Talaud Islands of Indonesia.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in Mindanao at Silway with III in Davao, and II in Buayan, Barra, Kinamayan, and IV in Manado, Sulawesi, Indonesia.
BMG (the local Indonesian network) reported this earthquake with M 7.1 was felt with maximum intensity VI in the Talaud Islands at Kararuan, Damau, Lirung, Melonguane, Salibabu, Kalonga, Pulutan, Moronge, Beo, Rainis, Essang, Gemeh. Lesser shaking was reported with intensity III in Kab. Sangihe, Siau, Halmahera, Morotai and II in Minahasa, Manado, Bitung, Ternate.
PHIVOLCS reported it with M 6.4 was felt in the Philippines with intensity II in Glan, Sarangani; Tupi, South Cotabato and lightly in Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and Sarangani, Davao Occidental; Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarar; Cith of General Santos; Alabel, Malapatan, Maitum, Sarangani and Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.
This the strongest earthquake near the Talaud Islands within about 200
km of today's epicenter since an M 6.6 on April 9, 2024. At the time this
summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.6 in Talaud, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to IV in Tobelo, Indonesia.
PHIVOLCS reported this earthquake of M 6.5 in Talaud, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II in the area(s) of Saranagani, City of Davao at Malungon and Glan.
BMG reported intensity IV in Ibu, Halmahera, Barat, Maluu; III in Kat Sangihe, Talaud, Siau, Halmeahera, Pulau Morotai, Tidore and Ternate among others,
This is the strongest earthquake in the Molucca Sea and Talaud within about
200 km of this epicenter since an M 7.0 on January 18, 2023 and may be
an aftershock of that event. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 7.0-7.2 in the Molucca Sea, Indonesia. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in Mandao, Sulawesi and in Southern Mindanao, Philippines in General Santos City, Panabo, San Jose, Carpenter Hill, Rotonda and Davao.
PHIVOLCS reported it was felt with intensity II in Mindanao at Glan, Maaim and Malungon, Sarangani; Banga, City of Koronadal, Polomolok, Tampakan and Tupi, South Cotabato, City of General Santos, Kalamansig, Palimbang, and President Qirino, Sultan Kudarat and with
intensity I in Lake Sebu and Surallah, South Cotabato, Columbio, Sultan Kudarat.
While BMG did not expect a tsunami with this earthquake, PTWC suggested a minor tsunami is possible with this earthquake and tsunami warnings were made by BMG.
In Manado the capital of North Sulawesi and in Melonguane the quake was felt strongly and forced
many people to run from buildings. Residents reported feeling disoriented and dizzy in the area
of Gorontalo and that it lasted a long time. The earthquake was also felt in the Maluku Islands.
No major damage has been reported at this time. This earthquake occurred
at the end of a C3.0 class solar flare (see flare listing below) near local solar noon and may have
been promoted by tidal and/or SFE.
...
The last strong earthquake in the Molucca Sea occurred with M 6.3 on July 10, 2021." (January 18, 2023, April 9, 2024)
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar midnight as the strong geomagnetic
storm (see above) was beginning its sudden commencement. This was activity
which was considered possible with this storm as reported in the previous
issue of this summary:
"A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 13:00 UT and reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 4.33 about the same
time. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 5.0 on December 21, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances." (January 9-10, 2026)
These epicenters are at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and
at the seventh node (52 degrees) from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:23 3.7N 127.0W ML=6.4 NEIC TALAUD ISLANDS, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:25 3.6N 127.0W ML=7.1 BMG TALAUD ISLANDS, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:21 3.4N 127.0W ML=6.4 PHIV EAST OF BALUT ISLAND, PHILIPPINES
O: 10JAN2026 14:58:26 3.7N 127.0E MW=6.5 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 15:15:15 3.7N 127.0E mb=5.2 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
O: 10JAN2026 19:40:52 3.7N 127.1E ML=4.0 EMSC KEPULAUAN TALAUD, INDONESIA
An earthquake of M 3.8 shook Azerbaijan three minutes before the Talaud earthquake.
This is not enough time for seismic wave interaction but both may have
been triggered by the start of today's geomagnetic storm.
This epicenter is located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Dudzai and from
Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 14:55:50 40.7N 48.6E MB=3.8 EMSC AZERBAIJAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in northeastern Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northeastern Honshu, Japan in Yamoto, Miyagi and Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.
This epicenter is at the sevent node (51 degrees) from Yukon, Canada
and at 103 degrees from the South Geomagnetic pole and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 11JAN2026 04:15:37 39.6N 141.7E MB=5.2 EMSC EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 off the west coast of Lebanon was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Lebanon with III in Jabal Lubnan at B'abda, Juniyah and Beirut.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Lebanon at Ra's Bayrut, Beirut, Baabda. Jdaidet el Matn, Sidon, Jounieh among others.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and was likely
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is located near the sixth node (60 degrees) from the North
Geomagnetic Pole and from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 21:50:20 34.0N 34.8E MC=3.4 EMSC CYPRUS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Northern Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Mindanao, Philippines in Sapao, Caraga.
EMSC reported light shaking in General Luna and Siargao.
This epicenter is located near the seventh node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka
and from TC Dudzai and may have been promoted by constructive
interference of energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 14:29:18 10.1N 126.0E MB=4.4 EMSC LEYTE, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Southern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern California at Hemet, Idyllwild, Menifee, Winchester, Palm Springs, Beaumont.
O: 10JAN2026 12:48:41 33.7N 116.8W ML=2.7 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Southern Idaho was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Idaho at Lowman.
O: 10JAN2026 11:31:23 44.4N 115.0W ML=2.6 EMSC SOUTHERN IDAHO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.7 in Northern California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern California at Redding.
O: 10JAN2026 11:08:44 40.8N 122.5W MD=2.6 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 south of Bali, Indonesia was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of south of Bali, Indonesia with III in Kuta and Denpasar.
EMSC reported a quick tremor in Bali at Pecatu, Kangin, Jimbaran, Bualu, Kelanabian, Nusa Dua, Jabajero, Kuta, Legian, Banjar Gunungpande, Denpasar, Banjar Medura, Banjar Kertajiwa, Klumbu, Banjar Pegeringsingan, and Banjar Kedisan.
O: 10JAN2026 09:34:05 9.2S 114.7E MB=4.4 EMSC SOUTH OF BALI, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in the Texas Panhandle was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Texas Panhandle at Amarillo and Clerendon.
O: 10JAN2026 08:33:59 35.3N 101.7W ML=2.8 EMSC TEXAS PANHANDLE REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Petropavlovsk,- Kamchatsky with intensity up to IV.
O: 10JAN2026 14:38:06 52.9N 160.7E MB=5.1 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 10JAN2026 15:34:09 51.6N 158.6E mb=5.1 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 10JAN2026 11:31:09 52.8N 160.9E Mw=5.3 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 10JAN2026 07:57:46 52.9N 160.9E Mw=5.5 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Southern Peru was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Southern Peru in Mollendo, Ciudad Satelite, Arequipa.
O: 10JAN2026 19:44:27 17.1S 72.0W ML=4.0 EMSC NEAR COAST OF SOUTHERN PERU
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE KOJI (13P)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC KOJI 2026-01-11 00:00 UT 20.1S 147.7E 45 kts North of Eastern Australia
Tropical cyclone Koji (13P) continued north of eastern Australia today. This system is currently located at 20S 148E with winds up to 45 kts. It is expected to track to the south today and to make landfall in Australia on January 11, 2026. The antipode is at 20N 32W off North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean and is not a seismic region.
TROPICAL CYCLONE DUDZAI (14S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC DUDZAI 2026-01-11 00:00 UT 15.0S 77.0E 70 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical cyclone Dudzai formed today in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 70 kts. It is expected to track to the southeast over the next several days. Regional seismic enhancement in the Indian Ridge systems is possible at this time. The antipode at 15N 103W is south of Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity on the East Pacific Rise in this area has been known to be affected by Indian Ocean Cyclones. Watch for enhanced seismicity and western Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 10, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8960 0804 0814 0817 C1.1 (January 10, 2025) 5.6E-04
Kuril Is. M 5.0 08:05 UT
Kamchatka M 5.5 07:58 UT
Greece M 3.9 08:15 UT
9050 1753 1807 1816 C1.0 (January 10, 2025) 1.2E-03
Jan Mayen M 4.5 18:00 UT
Gulf of California M 4.4 18:25 UT
9070 1848 1854 1857 C1.1 (January 10, 2025) 5.1E-04
9100 1931 1942 2000 C2.1 (January 10, 2025) 2.5E-03
Southern Peru M 4.0 19:44 UT
Talaud M 4.0 19:40 UT
9110 2001 2014 2024 C3.8 (January 10, 2025) 3.8E-03
9130 2208 2232 2252 C2.0 (January 10, 2025) 4.6E-03
Western Texas M 2.5 22:08 UT
Guerrero M 4.1 22:19 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: Minor storms January 11 active January 12-13, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 32, high: 40, mid-latitude: 15, time of max AP: 18:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 65; Radio Flux: 114
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 14:00 UT when electron flux started
a steep increase. The A-index for the day of 32 is the highest A-value
since December 3, 2025 when it also reached 32-33. The storm reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 6.0 between 1800 and 2100 UT.
GOES magnetometers show a near doubling of field strenght at the start o
the major storm at about 20:00-20:15 UT. Longitudes most likely to
see a seismic increase are at local solar noon and include areas near
120 West, including much of California. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 6.6 on December 3, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances. Additional seismic enhancement is possible in
South America and the Caribbean with this storm.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 10, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 13:00 UT and reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 4.33 about the same
time. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 5.0 on December 21, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Kamchatka was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kamchatka in Petropavlovsk,- Kamchatsky with intensity up to IV.
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from TC Jenna and at
the seventh node from Mindanao, Philippines and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 07:57:45 52.8N 161.0E MB=5.5 EMSC KAMCHATKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.1 in the Ionian Sea, Italy was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Ionian Sea, Italy in Sicily, Italy at Syracuse, Catania, Montagnareale, Francavilla di Sicilia and in Malta at Sliema, Qrendi, Dingli, San Giljan, Melliena and Msida.
EMSC reported it was felt with moderate to strong intensity in Italy at Ferruzzano, Locri, Pellaro, Terreti, Reggio Calabria, Bagnara Calabra, Sambatello, Villa San Giovanni, Faro Superiore, Messina, Taormina, Rombiolo, Gaggi, Vibo Valentia, Giardini Naxos, Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto and others and in Malta at Sliema, Swieqi, San Giljan Sprachcaffe, Marsaskala among others.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=5.1 occurred
on December 17, 2009 at a depth of 257 km and was lightly felt on the surface.
Today's M 5.1 is the strongest shallow focus earthquake in this area
in at least 35 years.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines; the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Hokkaido and TC Jenna and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 10JAN2026 04:53:12 37.9N 16.3E MB=5.1 EMSC IONIAN SEA, ITALY
Sixteen seconds later an M 4.6 occurred in Greece. EMSC reported it was felt with moderate intensity
in Greece at Lamia, Kainouryion, Amfissa, Karditsa, Volos, Mitropoli, Nafpaktos, Agrino, Patra.
The simultaneity of the event with the earthquake in the Ionian Sea could not
have been produced by seismic waves, as they did not have time to travel
this distance. That leaves possible external stresses triggering both
or coincidence.
O: 10JAN2026 04:53:28 39.0N 22.4E ML=4.6 EMSC GREECE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.5 in Maurtius-Reunion region was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mauritius-Reunion region with light intensity.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since
an M 5.6 on January 5, 2013. At the time this summary noted:
"The earthquake of M 5.1-5.2 in the Reunion and Mauritius region of the South
Indian Ocean was the largest event in the world today outside of southeastern
Alaska. Moderate activity in the region has been confined over the past five years to
to an epicenter about 300 km to the northeast of today's event. The earthquake
today is the strongest within 200 km of this epicenter ioccurred four years
ago on December 2, 2009 with M 5.3. The last of significantly larger magnitude
was an M 6.5 on April 16, 2006. Like the earthquake in Hawaii it is likely
that this event may have been immediately triggered by movement of magma
into cracks and crevasses in the volcanic region of La Reunion by passing
waves from the great Alaskan earthquake. The Reunion epicenter is located
at 142-144 degrees from the Alaskan and Queen Charlotte Islands epicenters.
After reflecting and refracting off core boundaries seismic waves are concentrated
on the surface in this distance zone from strong earthquakes. This concentration
of energy has been considered a possible triggering agent as seismicity in this
distance zone often increases following major earthquakes. A second such
distance range is around 103 degrees from major shocks. Earthquakes of M 4.1
in Flores, Indonesia and Chile of M 4.9 occurred in this distance range from
Alaska today. It is also likely stresses
resulting in this earthquake were acquired from the passage of a
strong tropical cyclone through the area over the past several days. This
is emphasized by a second earthquake on the path about 500 km to the north
of Reunion of M 4.8 today. In our summary yesterday it was emphasized that
this storm - Dumile - could trigger seismicity in the area at this time. That
summary stated:
"TC Dumile (07-S) continued today east of Madagascar in the South Indian Ocean with winds up to 85 kts. It is
expected to travel along the east coast of Madagascar over the next week. There is some
chance for seismicity in the La Reunion area as the eye of this storm will
pass over this island today (January 3-4, 2013) or along Madagascar over the
course of this storm. A volcanic episode at La Reunion could occur in association
with this storm." (January 4-5, 2013)
This appears to be a continuation of seismicity related to Tropical Cyclone
Grant which passed north of this epicenter several days ago. Previously
an M 5.5 occurred in the Rodrigues area and was reported in this summary as:
"A moderate M 5.4 occurred today in the Rodrigues Islands, Mauritius north of Reunion in the
South Indian Ocean. NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity
up to IV in the area near Port Mathurin, Mauritius.
The last earthquake of M>=5.4 within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred more than 35 years ago. Regional seismicity generally
occurs about 200 km east of today's epicenter and to the south. An M 5.5
about 250 km to the east of today's event occurred on June 7, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.5 also occurred today near Reunion in the South Indian Ocean. It was followed
by several moderate regional aftershocks. It was preceded by an M 4.5 foreshock
slightly to the north of the mainquake. This mainshock occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic
stresses which seismic effects are maximized near this hour. At the same time the first named Tropical
Storm of the season formed in the area south of Michoacan, Mexico (Cosme). TS Barbara was also forming in the
area near Michoacan at the time.
...
This earthquake in the South Indian Ocean may also have been promoted by a C1.3
class solar flare (#8860)...." (June 7, 2025)
Tropical Cyclone Grant passed near this epicenter in the past several days
as noted in previous issues of this summary and may have promoted this earthquake.
On January 4 this summary noted this possibility as:
"TC GRANT 2026-01-03 00:00 UT 15.0S 64.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 45 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely as TC Grant passes to the north in the next two days. ..." (January 4-5, 2026)
In addition to promotion from TC Grant this epicenter is also at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Taiwan and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 10:09:26 19.1S 64.0E MW=5.4 EMSC RODRIGUES REGION, MAURITIUS " (January 6, 2026)
O: 10JAN2026 03:22:28 19.9S 66.3E MW=5.5 EMSC MAURITIUS-REUNION AREA
Unfelt earthquakes of M 5.6 also occurred today in the area of the Fiji
Islands and in northern Vanuatu. These events occurred near local solar noon
and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses.
The M 5.6 in Vanuatu is located at the fifth node from TC Jenna; at 102 degrees
from TC Grant and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09JAN2026 23:19:35 13.7S 166.6E MW=5.6 EMSC VANUATU
The earthquake in the Fiji Islands is located at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 10JAN2026 00:06:02 26.3S 177.5W MW=5.6 EMSC SOUTH OF FIJI ISLANDS
NEIC reported earthquake of M 2.9, 2.8 and 2.6 in the San Francisco, California east Bay aea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the San Francisco, California east Bay area were widely felt with intensity IV in Danville and III in San Ramon, Castro Valley, Hayward, Dublin, and II in Burlingame, San Francisco and Walnut Creek.
EMSC reported light shaking in San Ramon, Hayward and Mission District, California.
These continue the current series in the eastern San Francisco Bay area which
may be precursory to a larger regional event associated with a major solar
flare near local solar noon or midnight.
O: 10JAN2026 01:54:35 38.0N 122.2W MD=2.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 16:14:09 37.8N 121.9W ML=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 16:16:41 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 16:18:31 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 17:58:04 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 09JAN2026 18:06:56 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.8 in east-central South Dakota was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of east-central South Dakota.
Earthquakes in this area have occasionally preceded larger global earthquakes
especially along the Western North American boundary and to a lesser extent
in the western Pacific Ring of Fire.
This epicenter is at 103 degrees from Taiwan and 146 degrees from TC Grant
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09JAN2026 12:35:12 44.0N 97.8W MW=2.8 EMSC SOUTH DAKOTA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Central Peru at El Carmen.
This epicenter is at the fourth node from Yukon, Canada; the third node from Kamchatka and 144
degrees from TC Jenna and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 09JAN2026 17:08:50 13.3S 73.3W MB=4.6 EMSC CENTRAL PERU
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in the Dodecanese Islands was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Dodecanes Islands at Fethiye, Dalaman, Ortaca, and Acipayam, Turkey.
O: 10JAN2026 02:55:01 36.4N 28.7E MW=4.1 EMSC DODECANESE IS.-TURKEY BORDER R
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Luzon, Philippines was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Luzon, Philippines with strong shaking in Santa Cruz and milder intensity in Payocpoc Sur, Baguio.
O: 09JAN2026 16:00:18 16.1N 119.8E MB=4.7 EMSC LUZON, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in SE Honshu, Japan was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Tokyo, Kamagaya, Komae, Toda, Nishitokyo.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from TC Jenna and the fourth
node (90 degrees) from TC Grant and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 09JAN2026 11:07:58 35.3N 140.5E MB=4.9 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAP
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE KOJI (13P)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC KOJI 2026-01-10 00:00 UT 17.9S 148.0E 55 kts North of Eastern Australia
Tropical cyclone Koji (13P) formed north of eastern Australia today. This system is currently located at 17S 148E with winds up to 55 kts. It is expected to track to the west and north today. The antipode is at 17N 32W off North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean and is not a seismic region.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the South Indian Ocean. This system is currently located at 13S 76E and moving to the south with winds up to 33 kts. Regional seismic enhancement is possible at this time. The antipode at 13N 104W is south of Jalisco, Mexico. Seismicity on the East Pacific Rise in this area has been known to be affected by Indian Ocean Cyclones. Watch for enhanced seismicity as far north as the Revillo Gigedo Islands and western Mexico in the next several days.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 9, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8820 1115 1128 1134 C3.4 (January 9, 2026) 2.3E-03
Eastern Honshu, M 4.4 11:24 UT M 4.0 11:35 UT
8860 1409 1422 1434 C1.2 (January 9, 2026) 1.6E-03
8870 1729 1748 1805 C1.0 (January 9, 2026) 2.0E-03
Minahasa M 4.4 17:38 UT
San Francisco M 2.1 17:58 UT
8900 2230 2242 2300 C1.2 (January 9, 2026) 2.0E-03
Guerrero M 3.4, 3.4 22:32 UT 22:35 UT
Vanuatu M 5.6 23:19 UT
Kenai Alaska, M 3.2 22:30 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: Minor storms January 10-11 active January 12, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 15% X-class: 1% proton storm: 1%
AP Indicies: global: 12, high: 12, mid-latitude: 9, time of max AP: 02:00 UT; Max AP: 3; Sunspot Number: 80; Radio Flux: 117
A geomagnetic storm began on January 10 around 13:00 UT and reached Kp at
high latitudes of 6 around 15:00 and Planetary KP of 4.33 about the same
time. This appears to be the strongest geomagnetic storm since planetary Kp
reached 5.0 on December 21, 2025. Sudden commencement storms such as this
can trigger immediate enhanced seismicity near the geomagnetic equator
and at high latitudes and such an event, especially in Indonesia which was
at local solar midnight when this storm initiated seems likely in the
current circumstances.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 9, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate earthquake of M 5.4 occurred in North Island, New Zealand today.
NEIC reported this event with M 5.0 was felt with intensity III in New Zealand
at Wellington, Porirua, Kapiti, Nelson, Palmerston, New Plymouth, Lower Hutt, Makara-Ohariu, Richmond, Tasman, Urenui, Levin and II in Wanganui, Taupo, Patea, Ypper Hutt, Carterton, and Te Kuiti, Waikato.
The last earthquake within North Island, New Zealand within about 150 km of
this epicenter with M>=5.4 occurred on February 15, 2023 with M 5.7. At the
time this summary noted:
"The M 5.7-6.3 in the Cook Strait, New Zealand was reported by NEIC to have been felt with maximum intensity VI in Foxton, V in Porirua, Makara-Ohariu, Kapiti, Wellington with IV in Levin, Upper Hutt, Wanganui, Lower Hutt, Palmerston North among many other communities.
This earthquake may have been promoted by effects of Cyclone Gabrielle which
hit the Kermadec Islands of northern New Zealand the remainder of New
Zealand in the past several days. That storm wrecked havoc on North Island
this week. New Zealand declared a National State of Emergency today. This
is only the third time this has happened in New Zealand history. At least four
have been declared dead and 1400 missing through the effects of TC Gabrielle
which included 80-100 mph winds and 6-12 inches of rain through North Island.
Travel was difficult or impossible throughout North Island and internet and cell
phone service were out when the cyclone damaged a fiber optic cable.
No tsunami was immediately observed or expected with today's earthquake.
Today's event in New Zealand occurred at the beginning of solar Flare 9620
and may have been promoted by SFE associated with that flare. SWPC parameters
for this flare follow:
Today's earthquake in the Cook Strait is the strongest in this region south
of Wellington, New Zealand since an M 6,2 on January 20, 2014 about 150 km
east of today's epicenter. Earthquakes about 150 km to the south of this
occurred with M 6.4-6.5 in South Island on July 21 and August 16, 2013, the
only such events in the region of Cook Strait in the past 35 years." (February 15, 2023)
GeoNet reported the following parameters for this event:
O: 08JAN2026 19:29:37 39.8S 174.5E MB=5.4 GEONET Felt with moderate to strong intensity in the area of Southern North Island, New Zealand and northern South Island. 14077 reports of felt events were made of which 7426 reported weak and 5702 light intensity with 880 reports of moderate shaking and 51 with strong and 5 severe and 12 with extreme intensity came from the area.
Today's epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from TC Jenna and
may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08JAN2026 10:20:15 37.8S 176.3E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
P: 02JAN2026 178632 37.0S 178.0E 3.0-4.6 CABAA North Island, N.Z.
P: 07JAN2026 178632 39.0S 176.0E 3.0-4.6 ABAAA North Island, N.Z.
O: 08JAN2026 19:29:36 39.8S 174.5E MW=5.0 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
O: 08JAN2026 19:29:36 39.8S 174.5E MW=5.4 GEONET NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
Two moderate earthquake of M 5.3 were felt widely near Tajikistan today. NEIC reported these were felt with intensity III in Os, Kyrgyzstan and II in Quva Farg'ona, Uzbekistan and in Pakistan at Baffa, Northwest Frontier and Islamabad.
EMSC reported they were felt with moderate intensity in Osh, Barken, Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan; Roghun, Tajikistan, Fergana, Qo'qon, Chortoq, Uchko'prik, Uchqurghon Shahri, To'rqao'rg'on, Kirguli, Toshloq, Oltiariq, Rishton, Uzbekistan, Kashgar, China, among others.
The last earthquakes within about 150 km of these epicenters with M>=5.3 occurred
with M 5.3 on November 13, 2023 - an aftershock of an M 6.8 on February 23, 2023.
Today's activity in Tajikistan is also likely aftershocks of that event.
At the time this summary noted in this regard:
"A strong to major earthquake of M 6.8-7.2 hit the area of Tajikistan and Pakistan today. NEIC reported maximum intensity VIII with damage in Tajikistan at Murgob and II-III in Os, and Dushanbe. Intensity IV was felt in North-west Frontier, Pakistan in Mardan and Risalpur with lesser shaking in Hunza, Gilgit, Abottabad and in Uzbekistan at Quva.
While no major damage was immediately reported from this remote area, many local
residents in Badakhstan woke during the quake and rushed outside. The mainshock
was also felt wide in western Xinjiang, China including at Kashgar and Artux accorrding
to Chinese state television. CENC reported the earthquake with M 7.2 (epicenter 38.0N 73.3E).
A series of moderate aftershocks of M 4.5-5.2 followed the mainshock. There was some concern that a large lake (Sarez) could flood a vast area
spanning several countries if disturbed by this earthquake.
Internet photos showed cracked pavement and damage to buildings.
...
moon and was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses from that alignment.
Today's event in Tajikistan is the strongest within about 300 km of this
epicenter since an M 7.2 about 50 km northwest of today's epicenter on December 7, 2015 -
the only such event in the region in at least 35 years. At the time this summary noted
in this regard:
"A major earthquake of M 7.2 hit the region of Tajikistan on December 7, 2015.
It was felt widely with moderate intensity in the countries of Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, China, India, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
Areas reporting moderate shaking of II-IV in Tajikistan included Dushanbe and Sughd;
in Uzbekistan at Navoiy and Tashkent; in Afghanistan at Kabul, Kapisa and Nangarhar;
in India at Delhi, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh;
in Xinjiang, China; Almaty, Kazakhstan; Biskek, Os, and Celalabad, Kyrgyzstan and in
Pakistan in the Federal Capital area, Northwest Frontier, and Punjab.
A series of regional aftershocks followed including an M 5.5 in Kyrgyzstan. An M 5.6
in Coquimbo, Chile a minute after the Tajikistan quake is probably coincidental
but global stresses may have helped trigger both at the same time. A major promoter of this earthquake was probably the M 7.5 in Hindu Kush of
October 26, 2015, the strongest in that region since an M 7.3 on March 3, 2002.
This epicenter is about 400 km from the current event. There have been no earthquakes
of M>=7.2 in an area within about 300 km of this epicenter in at least 25 years.
Major earthquakes within this area have occurred in the past century however.
The last was an M 7.1-7.4 on August 23, 1985. Others occurred on August 11, 1974 (M 7.3);
April 15, 1955 (M 7.2); February 18, 1911 (M 7.4-7.8) and August 22, 1902 (M 8.2).
The earthquake in 1985 was deadly and preceded the great Mexico City earthquake
of September, 1985 by less than a month. This summary's history noted on August 23
reported in regard to this event in 1985:
"At least 71 killed, 162 injured. About 85% of buildings were destroyed in the
Wuqia and Shufu area left up to 15,000 homeless. Highways were cracked nd
sandblows occurred in Wuqia County. Damage occurred at Kashi. Also felt in the USSR,
Rawalpindi, Islamabad and Peshaway, Pakistan." (August 23, 2015, December 8, 2015, February 23, 2023)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and TC Jenna and
at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Honshu and was probably promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 16:59:57 37.4N 74.7E MB=5.3 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
O: 08JAN2026 21:14:16 38.3N 73.3E MW=5.3 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
O: 08JAN2026 19:08:36 38.4N 73.9E mb=4.6 EMSC TAJIKISTAN
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Morocco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Morocco in Malaga, Spain in Ojen, Malaga, Fuengirola.
EMSC reported it was lightly felt in Gibraltar as well as in Spain at Fuengirola, Alhaurin de la Torre, Malaga, Torrox and in Kenitra, Morocco.
Today's event is located near the antipode of the M 5.4 in North Island, New
Zealand today (see above) and may have been associated with antipodally focused
energy from that source and an M 4.4 in North Island, New Zealand earlier in the day. This is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in
the Strait of Gibraltar since an M 4.4 on December 5, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
O: 08JAN2026 10:20:15 37.8S 176.3E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Strait of Gibraltar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Strait of Gibraltar in Malaga, Spain at Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Rincon de la Victoria.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Spain at Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Mijas, Torremolinos, Alhaurin de la Torre, Marbella, Malaga, Casarabonela, Rincon de la Victoria, Benahavis, Torre del Mar, Benamocarra, Velez-Malaga, Vinuela, Manilava, Albarrobo among others." (December 5, 2025.
The last earthquake in this area of M>4.4 was an M 5.2 on January 7, 2023
three years ago. At that time it was reported in this summary:
"An earthquake of M 5.2 near antipode of the M 5.5 in Auckland, New Zealand of
January 3, 2023 occurred today in Morocco. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Taza, Morocco. EMSC
reported moderate shaking in Morocco at Bni Bouayach, Imzouren, Al Hoceima, El Arba de Trougout, Ajdir, Driouch, En Nador, Taza, Bni Chiker and Selouane among other communities. This
is near the longitude of maximum tidal stress with today's full moon and
is consistent with tidal triggering from that tidal alignment. Today's
earthquake is the strongest in the region of the Strait of Gibraltar or Morocco
since an M 4.9 north of this on October 4, 2022 and an M 5.5 on May 20, 2022.
At the time of the October event, this summary noted:
"An unusually large M 4.9 occurred in the Strait of Gibraltar today. This area
has been active at lower magnitudes for several weeks. The only earthquake
near this epicenter in the past two years with M>=4.9 occurred on August 28, 2021 (M 5.1)
and an M 4.9 on June 2, 2022. At the time of the event in August 2021 this summary noted
in this regard:
"An earthquake of M 5.1-5.3 also occurred today in the Strait of Gibraltar. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity V in Ceuta, Spain, IV in Benamccarra, Velez-Malaga and Melila, Spain and II-III in Spain at Torremolinos and Granada and in Gibraltar and in Morocco at Al Hoceima and Inzouren.
This area became active in January, 2016 with a maximum sized event of M 6.3 on
January 25, 2016. Today's M 5.3 is the strongest aftershock in the region
since an M 5.6 on March 15, 2016" (August 29, 2021, October 4, 2022, January 7, 2023)
Today's epicenter is located at 102-104 degrees from Taiwan and TC Jenna and
at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources. It is also about 200 km from the exact antipode
of an M 4.4 in North Island, New Zealand that occurred about 7 hours earlier.
O: 08JAN2026 17:32:06 35.8N 4.6W MB=4.4 EMSC STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR
O: 08JAN2026 10:20:15 37.8S 176.3E MB=4.4 EMSC NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.1 and M 3.1 in Louisiana were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Louisiana with III in Coushatta,Shreveport, Mansfield, and II in Ringgold and in Natchez, Mississippi and Texarkana, Texas.
The second of these may have been promoted by SFE from solar flare 8600 (C2.7)
which began simultaneously with the earthquake and with an M 4.3 in Gansu, China. Data on this flare from
SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8600 1600 1609 1611 C2.7 (January 8, 2025) 1.2E-03
Louisiana M 3.1 16:01 UT
Gansu, China M 4.3 16:01 UT
The last earthquake in Louisiana within about 150 km of this epicenter was an
M 3.2 on August 22, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"Unusual earthquakes of M 3.0 and M 2.6 were felt along the Texas-Louisiana border today shortly
before the M 7.5 in the Drake Passage. NEIC reported intensity III in Center, San Augustine, Shelbyville, Texas and II in Kilgore, Tyler Texas.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter since
a series of earthquakes hit about 100 km north of this in Louisiana in December
2024 and January, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 3.5 was widely felt today in the area of Texas and Louisiana. NEIC reported maximum
shaking of V at Allen Texas with IV in Louisiana at Mooringsport, Shreveport and Barksdale, AFB. Intensity II was felt in Bossier City, and in Texas at Karnack, Kilgore, with lesser shaking in Louisiana at Belcher, Benton, Greenwood, Bossier City an Stephens, Arkansas.
Along with a similar M 3.5 on January 27, 2024 this is the largest earthquake
in the region of Louisiana within about 100 km of today's epicenter in at least
35 years. A series of earthquakes of M 3.0 and M 3.1 began in this area on December
19, 2024 ..." (January 18, 2025, August 22, 2025)
The current series in Lousiana began with an M 3.9 and M 4.8 on May 10 and 17, 2012
after no such earthquake in the period between 1994 and 2012.
These epicenters area located at the fifth node from Kamchatka and the fourth node
from Hokkaido, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 16:01:36 32.1N 93.4W ML=3.1 EMSC LOUISIANA
O: 08JAN2026 15:06:38 32.1N 93.3W ML=3.1 EMSC LOUISIANA
An earthquake of M 4.2 occurred at local solar midnight in the Geysers area
of Northern California north of San Francisco today.
This event was discussed in the previous issue of this summary in part as:
"An earthquake of M 4.2 shook regions of northern California in the Geysers area
north of San Francisco today. NEIC reported it was widely felt with intensity up to V in California at Nice;
IV in Middletown; III in Cloverdale, Geyserville, Penngrove, Kelseyville, Calistoga, Clearlake Oaks, Lakeport, Healdsburg and II in Forestville, Petaluma, Ukiah, Clearlake, Saratoga, Fairfield, Napa, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Saint Helena, Cotati, and Yorkville.
This earthquake occurred within several minutes of local solar midnight and
was probably promoted by tidal stresses which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake of M>=4.2 within about 50 km of this epicenter in the
California Geysers area occurred as an M 4.7 on January 2, 2025 more than
a year ago.
...
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Jenna; the seventh
node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka and 101 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (January 8, 2026)
Triggering within minutes of local solar midnight and local solar noon often indicates high levels of regional stress
and can precede stronger regional events.
O: 08JAN2026 08:00:21 38.8N 122.9W ML=4.2 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Argentina was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Argentina in San Juan, Mendoza and Cordoba.
O: 08JAN2026 14:14:57 31.3S 67.5W MB=5.2 EMSC SAN JUAN, ARGENTINA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Myanmar in Mandalay, Sagaing, Pyin Oo Lwin, Meiktila and Nyaungshwe with an earthquake noise.
O: 08JAN2026 14:56:35 21.9N 96.1E ML=4.5 EMSC MYANMAR
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.9 in Assam, India was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Assam, India in Dispur, Guwahati, Palasbari, Nongpoh, Meghalaya, and in Pemagatshel, Bhutan.
This epicenter is located at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japand an TC Jenna
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 13:00:47 26.7N 92.3E ML=3.9 EMSC ASSAM, INDIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE JENNA (12S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC JENNA 2026-01-09 00:00 UT 18.2S 90.3E 55 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 18N 90W - an area of northern Guatemala. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. TC Jenna is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to northern Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area in the next two days.
A tropical cyclone may be forming north of eastern Australia. This system is currently located at 14S 148E with winds up to 37 kts. It is expected to track to the west and north today. The antipode is at 14N 33W off North Africa in the Atlantic Ocean and is not a seismic region.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 8, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8470 0133 0139 0145 C1.2 (January 8, 2025) 8.9E-04
Central Mediterranean M 4.7 01:50 UT
8490 0215 0227 0242 C2.3 (January 8, 2025) 3.3E-03
8500 0442 0446 0448 C1.5 (January 8, 2025) 5.9E-04
Minahasa M 4.0 04:41 UT
Guyana M 4.5 05:06 UT
8510 0524 0542 0549 C4.4 (January 8, 2025) 3.9E-03
Ecuador M 5.5 05:18 UT
8540 0825 0833 0835 C1.3 (January 8, 2025) 8.0E-04
Hokkaido M 4.4 08:28 UT
8600 1600 1609 1611 C2.7 (January 8, 2025) 1.2E-03
Louisiana M 3.1 16:01 UT
Gansu, China M 4.3 16:01 UT
8630 1618 1730 1846 C5.6 (January 8, 2025) 3.5E-02
8680 1945 1956 2007 C3.4 (January 8, 2025) 4.2E-03
Aru, Indonesia M 4.1 20:03 UT
North Is. New Zealand, M 5.0 19:30 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 9 active January 10 unsettled January 11, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 14, high: 15, mid-latitude: 8, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 4; Sunspot Number: 96; Radio Flux: 140
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 8, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
An earthquake of M 4.2 shook regions of northern California in the Geysers area
north of San Francisco today. NEIC reported it was widely felt with intensity up to V in California at Nice;
IV in Middletown; III in Cloverdale, Geyserville, Penngrove, Kelseyville, Calistoga, Clearlake Oaks, Lakeport, Healdsburg and II in Forestville, Petaluma, Ukiah, Clearlake, Saratoga, Fairfield, Napa, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Saint Helena, Cotati, and Yorkville.
This earthquake occurred within several minutes of local solar midnight and
was probably promoted by tidal stresses which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake of M>=4.2 within about 50 km of this epicenter in the
California Geysers area occurred as an M 4.7 on January 2, 2025 more than
a year ago. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.7 in the Geysers
region of Northern California. Press reported the earthquake was felt as far
as San Francisco as a rolling motion. While some minor damage was reported
no significant damage was noted. More than 1500 people reported to the USGS
that they had felt this earthquake. Maximum intensity occurred as VI at Sacramento with V in California at Kelseyville, Middletown, III in San Francisco, Calistoga, Fairfield, Hercules, Saint Helena, Yountville, Oakland, San Rafael, San Anselmo, Sausalito, Santa Rosa, Clearlake, Cloverdale, Geyserville, Glenhaven, Healdsburg, Hopland, Lakeport, Lower Lake, Monte Rio, Nice, Hidden Valley Lake. It was felt lightly in areas as far as 250 km from the epicenter in Nevada, and Central California.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in northern California at Kelseyville, Middletown, Healdsburg, Petaluma, Fairfield, Vallejo, Pinole, and San Francisco.
This earthquake is near the fourth node (90 degrees) from the M 7.4 in Vanuatu
of December 17, 2024 and may be an FFA of that event. Also like many of the
larger eventss in the California Geysers area this was closely associated
with the supermoon of December 30, 2024 and with the strongest geomagnetic
storm in nearly three months, both of which probably helped promote today's
M 4.7 in northern California. The last earthquake in
the Geysers area of California within about 100 km of today's epicenter with
M>=4.7 occurred on December 14, 2016 with M 5.0. The largest earthquake in the area
and the only of M>6.0 in the past 35 years occurred as an M 6.0 near Napa on
August 24, 2014. At the time of the 2016 earthquake this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in California today was an M 5.0 north of San Francisco
in the Geysers area of California. NEIC reported the mainshock was felt with intensity up to VI (minor damage) with reports of intensity V from Kelseyville; IV from Geyserville, Cloverdale, Middletown, Lakeport, Lower Lake, Cazadero, Upper Lake, Mendocino, and in general within about 100 km of the epicenter. Lesser shaking was reported from as far away as 470 km at Nipomo but these reports
probably refer to the Templeton earthquake in central California. Lesser shaking
associated with the Geysers event probably was limited to areas within about
150 km of that epicenter including, but not limited to San Mateo, San Rafael, Vacaville, Fairfield, Napa, Sonoma, Petaluma, Potter Valley, Yountville, Bodega Bay, Rohnert Park, Saint Helena, Santa Rosa, Ukiah, Sebastopol, Angwin, Healdsburg, Hopland, Hidden Valley Lake, Lucerne, Clearlake, Windsor, Calistoga, Guerneville, and Forestville, California.
Aftershocks were felt with intensity II-III in Lakeport, Calistoga, Sebastopol, Ukiah, Saint Helena, Cloverdale, Healdsburg, Windsor, Santa Rosa and San Francisco, California.
No major damage was reported with this earthquake. It is the strongest earthquake
in the Geysers area within about 50 km of this epicenter in at least 25 years.
Earthquakes hit the Napa area with M 6.0 on August 24, 2014 and with M 5.0 on September 3, 2000.
While smaller earthquakes in the Geysers, California are nearly continuous, events
of larger magnitude are uncommon. Today's earthquake may be the largest ever
recorded in the Geysers area, in fact. An M 5.0 was recorded on May 7, 1955 but
magnitudes were not well determined at the time. No other events in the Geysers
area have reached M>=5.0 until today." (December 14, 2016, January 2, 2025)
This epicenter is at 144 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Jenna; the seventh
node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka and 101 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 08:00:21 38.8N 122.9W ML=4.2 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
An earlier M 2.0 occurred north of San Francisco today within a few minutes
of local solar noon. This repeats a pattern which is common among light
earthquakes in this area in the past several months and could be precursory
to a stronger earthquake upcoming. EMSC reported it was felt with light
intensity in the San Francisco Bay area near Vallejo.
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Jenna; the fifth
node (72 degrees) from northern Honshu and 102 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 07JAN2026 20:08:17 38.1N 122.2W ML=2.0 NEIC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 3.0, M 3.3 in Central California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central California with III in Trona and II in Ridgecrest, Long Beach, Inyokern, Lancaster.
These followed an M 3.6 earlier in the day which was felt with intensity II in Independence,
California.
These epicenters are 105 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines and may have
been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 08JAN2026 05:28:06 35.7N 117.5W ML=3.0 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 07JAN2026 23:56:43 35.7N 117.5W ML=3.3 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
O: 07JAN2026 23:56:43 37.3N 117.9W ML=3.6 NEIC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
An earthquake of M 2.6 occurred today in the area of eastern Los Angeles, California.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II in the greater Los Angeles area
with intensity II in Palmdale, Lake Arrowhead, Cedarpines Park, Crestline, San Bernardino and Garden Grove.
This event occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by
tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses.
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted
by energy from that source.
O: 07JAN2026 20:51:41 34.2N 117.3W ML=2.6 NEIC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.5 on the Peru-Ecuador border. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity IV in San Ignacio, Cajamarca, Peru and Yantzaza Zamora, Chinchipe, Ecuador with III in Ecuador in the Loja, Azuay, PichinchaSantiago and Chimborazo areas and in Peru in Piura and Santiago.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Ecuador at Loja, Guayaquil, Eloy Alfaro.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar midnight and may have
been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
The last earthquake of M>=5.5 within about 200 km of this epicenter occurred
as an M 5.5 on October 22, 2025. The last of larger magnitude was an M 6.8 on March 18, 2023.
At the time of this event about 200 km northwest of today's epicenter this summary
noted:
"A strong M 6.7-6.8 hit the coast of Western Ecuador and northern Peru today.
NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity IX at Balao, Guayas, Ecuador; VIII in Naranjito; VI in Naranjal, VI in Plahyas, Guayaquil, Santa Lucia, Cuenca Azuay, V in Samborondon, Eloy Alfaro among others. Initial news reports indicate extensive but minor damage to buildings and
structures with at least eleven people killed in the quake including one in Peru. Much of the damage
and casualties occurred in Cuenca and Machala when walls collapsed. The epicenter
was near Balao about two hours from Guayaquil. It was felt in at least 13 provinces
of Ecuador. Many communities lost power and a two-story home and wharf collapsed. No tsunami was observed
nor expected.
The time of this earthquake in Ecuador was within about 12 minutes of local
solar noon at a longitude near the longitude of maximum tidal stress (see above)
with the coming new moon. It is likely this earthquake was promoted by strong tidal stresses associated
with the new moon of March 21 (2023)" (March 18, 2023)
O: 08JAN2026 05:17:50 4.2S 77.8W ML=5.5 NEIC NORTHERN PERU
An unusual M 4.5 earthquake occurred about 11 minutes before the M 5.5 in
Ecuador (see above) in the area north of Guyana and eastern Venezuela.
NEIC reported it may have been felt lightly in Mabaruma, Guyana. This earthquake
occurred, like those in northern Peru (see above) near local solar midnight
and may have been promoted by tidal stresses with the full moon of January 3, 2026. The last
event in Guyana within about 200 km of this rare epicenter with M>=4.5
was recorded as an M 5.2 and M 4.6 on January 25, 2022.
At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.3 was also felt in Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean today. NEIC reported maximum intensity VI in Tabaquite and II-III in Sangre Grande and Tunapuna, Trinidad and Tobago with II in Mataruma, Guayana.
While no damage has been reported with this earthquake some light damage is
possible - perhaps from landslides. No tsunami threat exists with this earthquake.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 5.8
on July 3, 2008." (January 2, 2022)
The surface wave from this earthquake would have arrived in Ecuador at the
time of the M 5.5 there (22 degrees and 10 minutes 50 seconds later). It may
have helped trigger that subsequent earthquake. This seems unlikely due
to the relatively small (M 4.5) magnitude of the event in Guyana but the
timing is pretty precise.
This epicenter is at 146-149 degrees from TC Jenna and from Taiwan and may
have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 08JAN2026 05:06:59 9.1N 59.9W ML=4.5 NEIC GUYANA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in Northern Utah was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Northern Utah with II at Providence, Logan, Wellsville, Ogden, Provo, Smithfield.
This event may have been triggered by the S-wave from an M 5.5 which occurred
25.5 minutes earlier in Fiji. The S-phase would have been at the Utah epicenter
when that subsequent earthquake occurred.
O: 07JAN2026 22:25:46 41.8N 111.6W ML=3.0 NEIC NORTHERN UTAH
A moderately strong M 5.5 also occurred in the Fiji Islands with deep focus
today. It may have been felt light on the surface. This occurren near
local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses.
This epicenter is at 60.0 degrees (node 6) from Mindanao; at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu and Taiwan
and at the fourth node (90 degrees) fro Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 07JAN2026 22:00:13 23.4S 179.9W ML=5.5 NEIC SOUTH OF FIJI ISLANDS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Guam was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Guam with III in Tamuning.
O: 07JAN2026 18:02:00 14.0N 145.3E ML=4.9 NEIC GUAM
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in the Central Mediterranean was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of the Eastern Mediterranean in Chania, Greece.
O: 08JAN2026 01:50:05 35.4N 22.6E ML=4.7 EMSC CENTRAL MEDITERRANEAN SEA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE JENNA (12S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC JENNA 2026-01-08 00:00 UT 18.2S 90.3E 55 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 18N 90W - an area of northern Guatemala. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. TC Jenna is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to northern Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area in the next two days.
A tropical cyclone may be forming in the North Indian Ocean. This system is currently at 6N 84E in an area of little seismicity and moving NNW with winds up to 32 kts. The antipode at 6S 96W is also not a seismic area.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 7, 2026. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
8170 0344 0354 0357 C2.9 (January 7, 2026) 1.5E-03
Mindanao M 4.4 03:58 UT
8180 0402 0409 0412 C2.6 (January 7, 2026) 1.2E-03
Mindanao M 5.5 04:12 UT
8200 0525 0528 0533 C2.8 (January 7, 2026) 1.3E-03
8210 0606 0612 0614 C7.4 (January 7, 2026) 1.9E-03
Mindanao M 4.6 06:16 UT
8280 1121 1132 1138 C2.1 (January 7, 2026) 1.7E-03
Nevada M 2.9 11:22 UT
Northern California M 2.0 11:31 UT
8290 1208 1213 1217 C1.3 (January 7, 2026) 7.5E-04
8330 1356 1401 1408 C1.5 (January 7, 2026) 1.1E-03
8340 1412 1419 1427 C1.9 (January 7, 2026) 1.6E-03
8350 1543 1551 1602 C1.1 (January 7, 2026) 1.3E-03
Central California M 3.6 15:44 UT
8360 1614 1620 1626 C1.7 (January 7, 2026) 1.1E-03
Chiapas M 4.2 16:27 UT
8420 2152 2158 2200 C1.6 (January 7, 2026) 8.4E-04
8430 2201 2207 2212 C2.1 (January 7, 2026) 1.3E-03
Fiji M 5.5 22:00 UT
8440 2306 2314 2316 C3.2 (January 7, 2026) 1.2E-03
Northern California M 2.0 23:15 UT
Veracruz, Mexico M 4.0 23:00 UT
8460 2357 0004 0010 C1.3 (January 7, 2026) 1.0E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 8, minor storms January 9 active January 10, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 5 high: 2, mid-latitude: 3, time of max AP: 22:00 UT; Max AP: 2; Sunspot Number: 118; Radio Flux: 135
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 4, 2026 at 05:37:02 UT (#260104A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on January 1, 2026 at 00:56:30 UT (#260101A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>16.17 was assigned to this GRB by SWIFT.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 7, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.4 aftershock in Mindanao, Philippines.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to V in Mindanao, Philippines with intensity V in Tagum, IV in Davao, Barra, Igpit, Padada, Buayan, III in Andili, Bato, Kiokong, Mawab, Bansalan, San Policarpio, Brasilisa, Caraga, and II in Balogo, Alegria, Kidapawan, Tulunan, General Luna, Baliwagan, Koronadal.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Mindanao in Mati where a witness likened the
shaking to being popcorn in a kettle. It was also felt with strong shaking
in Magugpo Poblacion, Davao, Ula, Tungao, General Santos, Klinan, Cagayan de Oro, Igpit, Tabogan.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have been
promoted by full moon tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near
this hour. The mainshock was followed by an M 5.5 aftershock about an hour later. This is the strongest earthquake in central Mindanao within about 200 km
of this epicenter since an M 7.4 on October 10, 2025 and an aftershock of M 6.7
on the same date. Distances from today's Mindanao epicenter to other earthquakes
today (and for the past three months) are included in the "DATA" section of
this summary. Today's earthquake appears to be an aftershock of those events.
At the time this summary noted:
"A major M 7.4 earthquake has occurred in Mindanao, Philippines. A tsunami alert
is currently in effect. PTWC issued a tsunami warning but only small waves
were reported and it was later withdrawn. NEIC reported the mainshock of M 7.4
was widely felt with intensity up to VIII (with damage) in Central and northern Mindanao
north to Cebu. Intensity reports published by NEIC indicated it was felt with
intensity VI in Caraga Philippines at Bayugan; V in Butuan; IV in Masarawag, Bicol, Bancasi, and III in Caraga at San Francisco, Legazpi City, Albay, Brasilisa, and II-II in Pulau at Meyungs, and Ngetkip and in Sulawesi, Indonesia.
PHIVOLCS (the local Philippines earthquake network) reported intensity V in Copostela, Maco, Mawab, Monkayo, Montevista, Nabunturan and Pantukan, Davao De Oro; Asuncion, Braulio E. Dujali, Carmen, New Corella,City of Panabo, Island Garden City of Samat, Santo Tomas and City of Tagum, Davao del Norte,
City of Davao, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental; Cateel and City of Mati, Davao Oriental; City of Kidapawan, Cotabato; Alabel, Glan and Malungon, Sarangani, City of Koronadal, Tampakan and Tup, South Cotabate, City of General Santos; City of Butuan, Claver, Gigaquit and Mainit, Surigao Del Norte, In addition intensity IV was felt in the areas of the city of Tacloban, Budkidnon, Davao Del Sur, Davao Occidental, Cotabato, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Surigao del Norte and III in City of Iloilo, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Ormoc City, southern Leyte, Budidnon, City of Iligan, City of Cagayan de Oro, Davao Occidental, Cotabato, Sarangani, Sorsogon as well as throughout most of Mindanao, Leyte and Samar, Philippines.
The largest aftershocks at the time of this writing were of M 5.8-5.9. The first
of these occurred 8 minutes after the mainshock and could have been triggered
by a reflected PcP seismic wave. The second occurred within a couple
of minutes of local solar noon - as did many other significant earthquakes
around the world today and was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses
with the full moon of October 7. PHIVOLCS reported it was felt with strong intensity.
The last earthquake at shallow depth within about 200 km of this epicenter
in Mindanao, Philippines was an M 7.6 on December 2, 2023. At the time this
summary noted (in part):
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 7.6 in Mindanao, Philippines. NEIC reported it was felt with damage and intensity up to IX in Mindanao, Philippines.
PHIVOLCS reported it was felt with maximum intensity VII in the City of Tandag, Surigao del Sur; VI in Maco and Monkayo, Davao de Oro; Bayabas, City of Bislig and Hinatuan, Surgao del sur and V in the City of Borongan, Eastern Samar; Palo, Leyte, City of Cagayan de Oro; Nabunturan, Davao de Oro; City of Tagum, Davao del Norte; City of Davao; City of Cadadbaran, Agusan del Norte, Esperanza and Talacogon, Agusan del Sur and with lesser shaling in Bohol, City of Nandaue, Tacloban, Leyte, Budidon, Iligan, Sarangani, South Cotabato, Zamboanga, Davao, Bukidnon among others. Moderate to strong aftershocks were reported by NEIC with intensity up to V.
At least one person was confirmed killed in the earthquake with four others injured
and nine missing at initial count. More than 500 families were displaced. A tsunami warning was initially
made but was later withdrawn when no major tsunami waves were observed. Many people fled to higher ground because of the
fear of tsunami. Tsunami waves were observed in Japan with height up to 0.4 meters (1.3 feet).
Other tsunami waves were measured in the Philippines in Davao (0.3 ft); Legaspi (0.1 ft) and in Malakal Koror (Palau) east of the Philippines with 0.01 m height. A smaller event of M 6.9 hit Mindanao to the south of this two weeks ago. That event killed at least
9 and caused considerable damage to built structures, including a shopping mall ceiling
which collapsed. In today's activity there were no reports of major damage but some
roads in Surigao Del Sur were cracked by the movement associated with the
earthquakes. The mainshock occurred near local solar midnight at a location on the geomagnetic
equator as the strong geomagnetic storm was prevalent and was probably
triggered by effects associated with that storm.
Today's event of M 7.6 was the strongest in the world since an M 7.7 on May 19, 2023 in the
Loyalty Islands. Other events of M>=7.6 in the year 2023 occurred with M 7.6 in the Banda Sea on Januayr 9; in Turkey with M 7.8 on February 6 and in Tonga with M 7.6 on May 10, 2023.
The M 7.6 in Mindanao today is the strongest in the Philippines in the region
of Mindanao within about 300 km of today's epicenter since an M 7.6 on August 31, 2012, the only such event
in this area in at least 35 years. Other events of M >=7.5 hit somewhat further
to the south of today's epicenter on July 23, 2010, March 5, 2002 and January 1, 2001 (all with M 7.5).
.. " (December 2, 2023)
The M 7.4 on January 1, 2001 is the only other shallow focus epicenter within
about 200 km of this epicenter in at least 35 years.
This summary had expected this area of the central Philippines to see strong
seismic enhancement at this time. The major factor in this assessment was
that the maximum tidal stresses associated with the full (Super) harvest moon
of October 7 was at a longitude directly over this epicenter ..." (October 10, 2025)
Like this event in October, 2025 today's earthquake also occurred three days
following the full moon as previous described in this summary:
"The full moon will arrive on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are located near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026." (January 1-6, 2026)
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Grant dissipation
and at the 10th node (36 degrees) from Hokkaido and the seventh node (52 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 07JAN2026 04:12:57 7.3N 127.0E MW=5.5 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 06JAN2026 17:57:27 7.4N 126.8E ML=4.2 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 07JAN2026 03:02:58 7.4N 126.8E Mw=6.4 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 07JAN2026 04:36:44 7.4N 127.0E mb=4.9 EMSC PHILIPPINE ISLANDS REGION
O: 07JAN2026 04:46:51 7.4N 126.9E mb=4.9 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
O: 07JAN2026 06:16:19 7.4N 127.1E mb=4.6 EMSC PHILIPPINE ISLANDS REGION
O: 07JAN2026 03:58:22 7.2N 127.1E ML=4.4 EMSC PHILIPPINE ISLANDS REGION
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.8 in the Rat
Islands, Alaska. It was not reported felt in this remote epicentral area.
It was followed by an M 4.4 regional aftershock which NEIC reported was
felt with likely intensity II in the epicentral area.
This epicenter is located at 60.0 degrees from Mindanao, the sixth node; and at
the third node from TC Grant and 101 degrees from TC Jenna and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 10:57:14 51.2N 176.9E MW=4.8 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
O: 06JAN2026 11:14:02 51.3N 176.6E ML=4.2 EMSC RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS
The second strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 in the Denali National Park, Alaska.
This event occurred minutes before the M 6.4 in Mindanao, Philippines.
NEIC reported it was widely felt in Alaska with III in Anchorage and Willow and II in
Talkeetna, and Chugiak. It was probably promoted by tidal stresses with the
full moon of January 3 as it lies at the longitude of maximum stress with
that alignment (see above). The last earthquake in the Denali region of Alaska
within about 200 km of today's epicenter occurred on November 27, 2025 with M 6.0.
At the time this summary noted:
"A strong earthquake of M 6.0 shook the areas near Anchorage, and Elmendorf AFB, Alaska today.
More than 7000 responses from citizens in the area to NEIC revealed it was felt
with intensity V in Alaska at Anchorage, Talkeetna, Willow, Palmer, IV in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Chugia, Clam Gulch, Skwentana, Eagle River, Wasilla, Girdwood, Kenai, Elmendorf AFB, Fort Richarson, Indian, Cooper Landing, Kasilof, with intensity III as far as about 400 km from the epicenter.
No tsunami was expected nor observed with this earthquake. This earthquake
occurred at the peak of a high latitude geomagnetic storm with k-index of 7
and was probably promoted by that storm (see above). It is also near 100 degrees
from the earlier M 6.6 in Sumatra and the accompanying eye of Tropical Cyclone
Senyar today and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from northern Honshu, Japan today may have been promoted by energy
from those sources. This area has seen
a series of minor foreshocks in the past several days, but the last earthquake
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6 occurred on November 30, 2018 with M 7.0." (November 27, 2025)
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees from Hokkaido and Honshu
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 07JAN2026 02:37:49 63.1N 150.9W MB=4.4 EMSC CENTRAL ALASKA
O: 07JAN2026 02:37:49 63.1N 150.9W MB=4.5 NEIC CENTRAL ALASKA
An earthquake of M 4.5 also occurred about 300 km southwest of today's epicenter
earlier in the day and was reported in the previous issue of this summary as:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 in Southern Alaska.
NEIC reported it was widely felt with intensity II in Alaska at Anchor Point, Homer, Kasilof, Anchorage, Kenai, Ninilchik, Moose Pass, Elmendorf AFB, Sterling, Soldotna, Seward, Easgle Rive, Girdwood, Wasilla, Fort Richarson, Chugiak.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Southern Alaska
was recorded by NEIC as occurring with M 4.5 on December 20, 2024." (January 6, 2026)
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees from Hokkaido and Honshu
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 08:08:47 60.3N 153.7W MB=4.2 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
O: 06JAN2026 08:08:47 60.3N 153.7W MB=4.5 NEIC SOUTHERN ALASKA
A moderate M 5.4 occurred today in the Rodrigues Islands, Mauritius north of Reunion in the
South Indian Ocean. NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity
up to IV in the area near Port Mathurin, Mauritius.
The last earthquake of M>=5.4 within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred more than 35 years ago. Regional seismicity generally
occurs about 200 km east of today's epicenter and to the south. An M 5.5
about 250 km to the east of today's event occurred on June 7, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.5 also occurred today near Reunion in the South Indian Ocean. It was followed
by several moderate regional aftershocks. It was preceded by an M 4.5 foreshock
slightly to the north of the mainquake. This mainshock occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic
stresses which seismic effects are maximized near this hour. At the same time the first named Tropical
Storm of the season formed in the area south of Michoacan, Mexico (Cosme). TS Barbara was also forming in the
area near Michoacan at the time.
...
This earthquake in the South Indian Ocean may also have been promoted by a C1.3
class solar flare (#8860)...." (June 7, 2025)
Tropical Cyclone Grant passed near this epicenter in the past several days
as noted in previous issues of this summary and may have promoted this earthquake.
On January 4 this summary noted this possibility as:
"TC GRANT 2026-01-03 00:00 UT 15.0S 64.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 45 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely as TC Grant passes to the north in the next two days. ..." (January 4-5, 2026)
In addition to promotioni from TC Grant this epicenter is also at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Taiwan and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 10:09:26 19.1S 64.0E MW=5.4 EMSC RODRIGUES REGION, MAURITIUS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in Kodiak Island, Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kodiak Island, Alaska at Kodiak.
This epicenter is at the third node (120 degrees) from TC Jenna and at the eighth node (45 degrees from Hokkaido and Honshu
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 07JAN2026 06:32:15 57.9N 152.2W ML=3.5 EMSC KODIAK ISLAND REGION, ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Central Vanuatu was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Vanuatu with II in Vila Shefa.
This epicenter was well positioned for triggering at this time. It is at 102
degrees from TC Grant; at the fifth node from Kamchatka and TC Jenna; at
the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada; and at the sixth node
(60 degrees) from Honshu and Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 23:10:40 17.6S 168.2E MW=5.0 EMSC VANUATU
O: 07JAN2026 00:27:48 17.0S 168.7E mb=4.8 EMSC VANUATU
EMSC reported earthquakes of M 4.8 and M 5.2 in Kamchatka, Russia were felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Kamchatka, Russia in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
These epicenters are currently located at 90 degrees (node 4) from TC Jenna
and at 52 degrees (node 7) from Mindanao and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 18:25:28 51.7N 160.3E MB=4.5 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 06JAN2026 18:18:43 51.9N 159.8E Mw=5.2 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 06JAN2026 07:16:36 52.6N 158.9E mb=4.8 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 07JAN2026 00:30:31 52.6N 159.2E mb=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 07JAN2026 05:15:37 52.8N 160.2E mb=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE JENNA (12S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC JENNA 2026-01-07 00:00 UT 17.7S 92.8E 75 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 75 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 17N 87W - an area of Honduras. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. TC Jenna is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to northern Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area around that time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 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 and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7810 0010 0021 0050 C2.1 (January 6, 2026) 4.5E-03
Honshu M 5.7-6.2 01:18 UT
7860 0649 0656 0701 C1.8 (January 6, 2026) 1.3E-03
Mariana Is. M 5.2 07:01 UT
Kermadec Is. M 5.1 06:52 UT
7880 0745 0754 0800 C4.0 (January 6, 2026) 2.5E-03
Southern Alaska M 4.5 08:08 UT
7920 1151 1202 1219 C2.1 (January 6, 2026) 3.6E-03
8050 1219 1258 1325 C3.1 (January 6, 2026) 1.2E-02
Fox Is. M 3.9 12:19 UT
7930 1325 1333 1335 C2.9 (January 6, 2026) 2.3E-03
Afghanistan M 4.4 13:35 UT
7950 1543 1555 1604 C4.0 (January 6, 2026) 3.9E-03
7970 1641 1648 1650 C2.2 (January 6, 2026) 1.1E-03
8020 1951 1958 2001 C2.0 (January 6, 2026) 1.0E-03
8130 2359 0011 0014 C4.5 (January 6, 2026) 2.5E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 7-8, minor storms January 9, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 40% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 4 high: 3, mid-latitude: 3, time of max AP: 10:00 UT; Max AP: 3; Sunspot Number: 99; Radio Flux: 145
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 6, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderately strong to strong earthquake of M 5.7 (EMSC) to M 6.2 (JMA) occurred
in northern Honshu, Japan today in the western Prefectures. It occurred near
local solar noon and may have been promoted by energy from tidal and/or
geomagnetic sources. It was followed by several moderate aftershocks of M>=5 which were felt widely. NEIC reported the mainshock
was felt with minor damage in Honshu with intensity VII in Yasugi, Shimane, Sakaiminato, Tottori and VI in Matsue, Shimane, Japan.
Intensity IV was felt in Ako, Hyogo, Japan with III in Hiroshima, Kyoto, Tokushima, Osaka, Gifu, Yamaguchi and II in Fukuoka, Nara, Tokyo, and South Korea.
JMA reported intensity V-VI (Japanese intensity scale) was felt in the eastern Shimane Prefecture and
throughout much of western Honshu, Japan.
This is an unusual earthquake epicenter. The last earthquake with M>=5.7
within about 200 km of this epicenter in northern and western Honshu was
an M 6.2 on October 21, 2016 with the last of significantly larger magnitude
two events of M 6.7 on March 24, 2001 and October 6, 2000. At the time of the
event in 2016 this summary noted:
"A strong M 6.6 earthquake shook much of western Japan on October 21. NEIC reported
it was felt in Hiroshima, Nishi-ku and Gifu-shi, Japan with moderate intensity.
JMA reported many aftershocks were felt with light to moderate intensity. The mainshock
was given M 6.6 by JMA with maximum intensity VI in Tottori, V in Okayama, Shimane, Kyoto, IV in Osaka, Hyogo, Hiroshima, Kagawa. Ehime, Yamaguchi, III in Fukui, Gifu, Aichi, Shiga, Nara, Wakayama, Tokushima, Kochi, Fukuoka, Saga, Oita, Toyama, II in Ishikawa, Yamanashi, Nagano, Shizuoka, Mie, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and I in Ibaraki, Gunma, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Miyazaki Prefectures, Japan.
JMA did not recognize any threat of a tsunami with this earthquake. While there
were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries in the area, minor damage
did occur and was televised. In April two earthquakes hit the Kumamoto Prefecture
leaving widespread damage and more than 50 dead. Japan Today reported damage
included knocked over shelves and knocked out power to nearly 32,000 homes. Damage also
occurred to roof tiles, walls, and to a woman who was splashed with hot oil
while cooking during the quake. She was hospitalized.
This earthquake may have been promoted by a series of strong typhoons which
passed through the region in the past month. The most recent made landfall
over the past two days south of this epicenter in eastern China (Haima and Sarika) where strong seismic activation accompanied their landfall.
The most prominent of these recent storms was Typhoon Chaba in early to mid-October. This summary
had noted the potential for seismicity related to Typhoon Chaba as follows:
"Typhoon Chaba continued today over northern Honshu, Japan with winds up to 90 kts. It
is expected to track over northern Honshu passing north of Tokyo around September 6. It is expected to track over the center of Honshu. This will
be an atmospheric unloading event for Japan. Such events allow the upper plate
to rise with respect to the lower plate reducing normal friction across the subduction
zone. This setup can lead to a moderate to large earthquake in the subduction zone.
A seismic watch is being called for Northern and central Honshu, Japan. These areas often become active in association with
major ocean storms such as Chaba." (October 3-7, 2016)
In addition to stresses related to weather, several other factors made a
strong earthquake in Japan possible at this time. Tidal stresses probably
helped as this is not far from the longitude of maximum stress associated
with the last full moon. As Japan is particularly sensitive to geomagnetic effects, the end of the geomagnetic storm was also probably
a factor as this is about 15-20 degrees north of the geomagnetic equator,
a region in which geomagnetic triggering is most likely as noted in previous
summaries:
"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 18-20, 2016, October 21, 2016)
Like the event in October, 2016 today's earthquake was also near the
full moon as previously noted in this summary:
"The full moon will arrive on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are located near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026." (January 1-5, 2026)
Likewise, a moderate C3.3 class solar flare began in concert with this earthquake.
This was the strongest solar flare reported by SWPC in the past two days. Preliminary data from SWPC for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0118 0150 0240 C3.3 (January 6, 2026) 4.4E-03 *
Honshu Japan M 5.7-6.2 01:18 UT
7690 0911 0920 0924 C3.0 (January 5, 2026) 2.1E-03
Honshu Japan M 3.3 09:42 UT
An M 3.3 foreshock to today's event in northwestern Honshu occurred earlier
in the day on January 5. It occurred at the end of solar flare 7690 C3.0 - the
third largest flare in the past two days. Data on this flare from SWPC
are listed above.
Enhanced seismicity was expected in northern Honshu at this time. In the January
4, 2026 issue of this summary it had been examined as:
"In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area. ..." (January 4, 2026)
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from TC Jenna and from the Yukon,
Canada and may have been promoted by constructive energy interference
from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 01:18:30 35.3N 133.2E MW=6.2 JMA WESTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 06JAN2026 01:18:49 35.3N 133.1E MW=5.7 EMSC WESTERN HONSHU, JAPAN
"TC GRANT 2026-01-03 00:00 UT 15.0S 64.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
A moderate M 5.4 occurred today in the Rodrigues Islands, Mauritius north of Reunion in the
South Indian Ocean. NEIC reported this earthquake was felt with intensity
up to IV in the area near Port Mathurin, Mauritius.
The last earthquake of M>=5.4 within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred more than 35 years ago. Regional seismicity generally
occurs about 200 km east of today's epicenter and to the south. An M 5.5
about 250 km to the east of today's event occurred on June 7, 2025.
At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake of M 5.5 also occurred today near Reunion in the South Indian Ocean. It was followed
by several moderate regional aftershocks. It was preceded by an M 4.5 foreshock
slightly to the north of the mainquake. This mainshock occurred within minutes of
local solar midnight and may have been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic
stresses which seismic effects are maximized near this hour. At the same time the first named Tropical
Storm of the season formed in the area south of Michoacan, Mexico (Cosme). TS Barbara was also forming in the
area near Michoacan at the time.
...
This earthquake in the South Indian Ocean may also have been promoted by a C1.3
class solar flare (#8860)...." (June 7, 2025)
Tropical Cyclone Grant passed near this epicenter in the past several days
as noted in previous issues of this summary and may have promoted this earthquake.
On January 4 this summary noted this possibility as:
"TC GRANT 2026-01-03 00:00 UT 15.0S 64.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 45 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely as TC Grant passes to the north in the next two days. ..." (January 4-5, 2026)
In addition to promotioni from TC Grant this epicenter is also at the fifth node
(72 degrees) from Taiwan and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 10:09:26 19.1S 64.0E MW=5.4 EMSC RODRIGUES REGION, MAURITIUS
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 in Southern Alaska.
NEIC reported it was widely felt with intensity II in Alaska at Anchor Point, Homer, Kasilof, Anchorage, Kenai, Ninilchik, Moose Pass, Elmendorf AFB, Sterling, Soldotna, Seward, Easgle Rive, Girdwood, Wasilla, Fort Richarson, Chugiak.
The last earthquake within about 150 km of this epicenter in Southern Alaska
was recorded by NEIC as occurring with M 4.5 on December 20, 2024. At the time
this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 4.5 northwest of Anchorage, Alaska. It was felt with intensity III in Anchorage, Elmendorf AFB, Indian, Anchor Point, Chugiak, Clam Gulch, Girdwood, Homer, Kasilof, Kenai, Ninilchik, Palmer, Sterling, Juneau and II i Kenai, Cooper Landing and Eagle River among others.
This earthquake occurred at the height of a c-class solar flare and may have been
promoted by SFE associated with that flare." (December 20, 2024)
The last earthquake with signifcantly larger magnitude in this area of Alaska
occurred as an M 5.0 on July 28, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.0 in Southern Alaska. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity II-III in southern Alaska at Levelock, Pedro Bay, Anchor Point, Kodiak, Homer, Ninilchik, Soldotna.
It was preceded by an M 4.6 in the Alaska Peninsula earlier in the day about
300 km to the south. This is the strongest earthquake within about 150 km
of this epicenter in Southern Alaska since an M 5.0 on June 18, 2023. The last
of larger magnitude in this region was an M 5.9 on December 21, 2021." (July 28, 2023)
This epicenter is at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may
have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 06JAN2026 08:08:49 60.3N 153.7W MW=4.5 NEIC SOUTHERN ALASKA
NEIC an earthquake of M 2.6 in Ohio was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Ohio in Madison and Geneva with III and II in Painesville and Huntington Woods, Michigan.
The last earthquake in Ohio within about 150 km of today's epicenter with M>=2.6
occurred as an M 2.6 on June 1, 2024 with the last of larger magnitude on March 30, 2024.
At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual earthquake of M 3.0 occurred in the region of northern Ohio today. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity up to IV in Maple Ridge, Ohio.
The last earthquake in Ohio within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=3
occurred as an M 3.6 on August 28, 2023." (March 30, 2024)
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. It also occurred near the antipode of a strong earthquake in the South
Indian Ridge which occurred on January 3, 2026 (M 5.9) and on January 1 (M 6.0). At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today occurred as an M 5.9 in the Southeast Indian
Ridge. It was not reported felt in this remote area. This appears to be an aftershock
of an M 6.1 south of this epicenter which occurred on January 1, 2026. At the time
this summary noted in this regard:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 6.0 in the Southeast Indian Ridge was not felt in this
remote epicentral area. It occurred in late solar morning in this epicentral area (January 1, 2026). This is the strongest earthquake within about 300 km
of this epicenter in the Indian Ridge since an M 6.3 on March 24, 2018 and priot to that an M 6.4 on
November 10, 2010. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake in the South Indian Ocean of M 6.2-6.3 was also well forecast to occur
at this time. This is a remote area and this event was not reported felt. It
occurred near local solar midnight and tidal stresses may have helped promote
this event as did geomagnetic effects at this high latitude. The last earthquake
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.3 was an M 6.5 on November 10, 2010. Other quakes hit the
region with M 6.3-6.5 on October 29, 2005 and February 18, 1994. The antipode
of this event is in southern Ontario, Canada near Ohio at 45N 84W. A light
sympathetic quake could occur near this epicenter in the next several days." (March 24, 2018)
Today's epicenter in the Southeast Indian Rise is at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Taiwan; the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and the 10th node (36 degrees)
from Tropical Cyclones Iggy and Grant in addition to 144 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources." (January 1, 2026)
O: 03JAN2026 10:07:57 45.4S 96.5E MW=5.9 EMSC SOUTHEAST INDIAN RIDGE " (January 4, 2026)
This epicenter in Ohio is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 04:50:37 41.8N 81.0W MW=2.6 NEIC OHIO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in northern San Francisco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern San Francisco with III in San Anselmo, Vallejo and San Francisco and II in Hercules, San Rael, Lafayette, Pinole and San Pablo.
This event is not at the site of the current swarm near San Ramon and may
indicate regional stress load approaching rupture in a moderate earthquake.
The last earthquake with M>=2.6 within about 30 km of this epicenter in
San Francisco occurred as an M 3.5 on November 13, 2025. At the time this
summary noted:
"Two light earthquakes shook the region of San Francisco, California today. These events of M 3.5 and 2.5
were reported by NEIC to have been felt with intensity up to IV in the San Francisco area at Vallejo, San Anselmo,
Crockett, Benicia, and III in Pinole, Richmond, Rodeo, Hercules, Martinez, Berkeley, American Canyon, Orinda, Burlingame, Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, El Sobrante, Concord, San Ramon, Half Moon Bay, San Francisco, San Pablo, Alamo, Concord, Walnut Creek, Emeryville, among others.
These two earthquakes occurred at local solar midnight (M 2.5) and local solar
noon (M 3.5) and were probably promoted by geomagnetic and/or tidal stresses
which maximize near these hours. This continues a pattern of light earthquakes
in San Francisco over the past several weeks near local solar midnight and
Noon and could indicate the area is very close to a major rupture. Hair-triggering
in the area is especially notable at times of strong X-class flares. The X5.1
flare of November 11, 2025, the strongest in months, occurred while
San Francisco was near local solar midnight ..." (November 13, 2025)
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Central Philippines; the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Honshu, Japan and the seventh node (52 degrees) fro Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 06JAN2026 03:18:00 38.2N 122.4W MW=2.6 NEIC SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Oklahoma was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Oklahoma in Prague.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Tunisia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Tunisia in Sejenane.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE JENNA (12S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC JENNA 2026-01-06 00:00 UT 15.7S 94.8E 110 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 110 kts south of Sumatra exploding in size over the past day. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 16N 86W - an area of Honduras. This area is active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is possible in the next three days. It is then expected to reverse direction and track to the west reaching an area antipodal to Guatemala and Chiapas Mexico around January 8-9, 2026. It could help promote a moderate earthquake in that area around that time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 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 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 0118 0150 0240 C3.4 (January 6, 2026) 4.4E-03 *
Honshu Japan M 5.7-6.2 01:18 UT
7610 0109 0126 0148 C1.7 (January 5, 2026) 3.7E-03
7690 0911 0920 0924 C3.0 (January 5, 2026) 2.1E-03
Honshu Japan M 3.3 09:42 UT
7700 1012 1016 1018 C2.8 (January 5, 2026) 1.0E-03
Central Peru M 3.6 10:17 UT
7740 1237 1248 1255 C2.1 (January 5, 2026) 2.2E-03
7790 1818 1842 1906 C3.3 (January 5, 2026) 8.0E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.8 18:57 UT
7800 2032 2038 2044 C2.3 (January 5, 2026) 1.7E-03
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet January 6-8, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 40% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 14 high: 28, mid-latitude: 10, time of max AP: 09:00 UT; Max AP: 6; Sunspot Number: 91; Radio Flux: 154
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 5, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
A light geomagnetic storm began around 21:20 UT on January 4. GOES 8 and 9
magnetometers showed about 20% increase in geomagnetic field strength
within about 5 minutes at this time. This storm reached global Kp of 4.3 around 08:00 UT on
January 5 with high latitude K- index of 6 at that time. Sudden commencement storms can help
promote associated enhanced seismicity but generally lead to reduced
seismicity globally in the next two days while systems reconfigure.
A moderately strong earthquake of M 5.2-5.6 shook areas of Assam, India today and
was followed by an M 5.3 aftershock. EMSC reported the mainshock was widely
felt with strong intensity in India at Morigaon, Dhing, Mangaldai, Raha, Dhekiajuli, Alluchawka, Mangoldoi, Tezpur, North Guwahati, Rangapara, Dispur, Hojai, Rangia, Soalkuchi, Palasbari, Nongpoh, Shillong, Mushalpur, Khliehriat, Barpeta Road, Numaligarh, Dimapur, Naharlagun, Badapur, Golaghat, Silchar, Bihpuriagaon, Bongaigaon, Busugaon, Alipur Duar, Moranha, Tinsukia, and in Bangladesh at Sakhipur, Sylhet and in Bhutan at Samdrup Jongkhar, Bhangtar, Daifam,
NEIC reported intensity V in Assam, India at Udalguri, Raha Gaon, ?Nagaon, Hojai, Dhing, Tezpur, Mangaldai, and IV in Gauhati, Sualkuchi, Gohpur, Shillong, Meghalaya, Palaasbari, Sibsagar, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Dimapur, Nagaland, North Guwahati, with III in Shiliguri, Bangla, Silhat, Bangladesh and Kohima, Nagaland among others and as far as 300 km from the epicenters.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this event in Assam, India of M>=5.2
occurred as an M 5.5 on September 14, 2025 but the last of significantly
larger magnitude was an M 6.0 on April 28, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.5-5.9 in Assam, India. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity VII in Dhing, Assam, India, V in Tawang, Dispur, Assam and Shillong, Meghalaya, India and in Silhat, Bangladesh, with IV in Itanagar Arunachal Pradesh and Sualkuchi, Assam India and in Rangpur, Bangladesh, and III in Rangapara, India and in Bangladesh at Rungi, Munshiganj, Nalitabari and in Phuentsholing, Bhutan.
EMSC reported strong shaking in India at Mangaldai, Morigaon, Raha, Tezpur, Dispur, Rangia, Guwahati, Soalkuchi, Hajo, Hojai, Nongpoh, Shillong, Barpeta Road, Itanagar, Abhayapuri, Dergaon, Wylhet, Titabar, Karimganj, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Silchar, Dhubri, Dhemaji, Sibsagar, Imphal, Mymensingh, Bangladesh, and in Bhangtar, Thimphu among others in Bhutan, India, and Bangladesh.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in India with M>=5.5
occurred as an M 6.0 on April 28, 2021. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.0 in Assam, India. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) of India gives this event M 6.4. The mainshock was reported felt with maximum shaking and damage in Assam at Udalguri; VII in Dhekiajuly, Rangapara, Nagaon, VI in Tezpur, Tangla, Raha Gaon and North Guwahati and V in Gauhati, Assam, India
An M 4.7 aftershock was felt with intensity VII in Assam at Tezpur; VI m Gauhati, and Samdrup; V in Dohu, Palasbari, Bondila, Nagaon; IV in Dispur and Shillong, Meghalaya, India.
Cracks appeared in walls, ceilings and floors of some buildings, with some reports
of collapsed ceilings and walls, but there were no immediate reports of casualties. Internet showed
extensive damage in some areas. People fled their homes into the streets
during the earthquake. The last earthquake within about 250 km of today's
activity with M>=6.0 occurred on September 21, 2009, the only such event in this region
in at least 30 years although an M 5.9-6.0 quake hit about 200 km south of this
on May 8, 1997. The last event of larger magnitude in the general area of northern India
was an M 6.9 at intermediate depth on April 13, 2016 in Bangladesh." (April 28, 2021)
This epicenter is located at a longitude which was strongly affected by
the full moon of September 8 (local time) and was probably promoted by tidal stresses
associated with that alignment ...
Today's earthquake occurred near local solar noon.
This epicenter is located near the sixth node (60 degrees) from Kamchatka
and at 143 degrees from the Drake Passage M 7.4 of August 22 and may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (September 14, 2025)
Readers may note the coincidence with the full moon (as with today's event).
This epicenter is at the seventh node from Tropical Cyclone Grant (52 degrees) and
at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 04JAN2026 22:47:52 26.3N 92.3E MB=4.9 EMSC ASSAM, INDIA
O: 04JAN2026 22:47:38 26.4N 92.3E MB=5.2 EMSC ASSAM, INDIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.8 in Central Italy was felt with a loud rumble and intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Italy at Servigliano, Penna San Giovanni, Montappone, San Vittoria in Matenano, Ripe San Ginesio, Sarnano, Amandola, Mogliano, Monte San Pietrangeli, Monte San Giusto, Macerata, Treia, Fermo, Ascoli Piceno, Camerino, Mozzano, San Marco, Porto San Giorgio, Massignano, Grottammare, Massa, Camerano, Posatora.
Several light aftershocks were also felt in the area. EMSC reported they were felt lightly in Italy at Penna San Giovanni, Mogliano, Tolentino, Castignano, Monterubbiano, Porto San Giorgio and Montappone.
This epicenter is at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the Yukon, Canada, TC Grant,
and at 102 degrees from central Philippines and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 05JAN2026 02:31:39 43.1N 13.4E ML=3.8 EMSC CENTRAL ITALY
NEIC reported a series of light earthquakes of M 3.0-4.0 in the Virgin Islands was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area.
O: 04JAN2026 10:43:45 19.1N 64.9W MD=3.2 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 04JAN2026 09:06:11 19.2N 64.7W MD=3.4 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 04JAN2026 10:25:47 19.2N 64.8W MD=3.3 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 04JAN2026 11:07:59 19.2N 64.8W MD=3.5 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 05JAN2026 02:56:54 19.3N 64.7W MD=3.7 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
O: 05JAN2026 03:22:02 19.3N 64.6W MD=3.6 EMSC VIRGIN ISLANDS REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.2 in Eastern New Guinea was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Eastern New Guinea in Lae Morobe and Port Moresby.
This event occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by tidal
and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (51 degrees) from TC Jenna; the sixth node (60 degrees) from
Kamchatka and the eighth node (45 degrees) from Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources.
O: 05JAN2026 00:42:04 5.6S 147.6E MB=5.2 EMSC EASTERN NEW GUINEA REG., P.N.G
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 in Kentucky was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kentucky with II in Liberty and Somerset, Kentucky and in Tennessee at Cumberland Gap, Harrogate and New Tazewell.
O: 04JAN2026 20:07:15 36.5N 83.8W MD=2.6 EMSC EASTERN TENNESSEE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.3 in northern Utah was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of northern Utah with III in Huntsville, Eden, Ogden, Salt Lake City, Hooper, Bountiful, Springville, Morgan, Kaysville, Farmington, and II in Matua, Syracuse, Roy, Layton, West Jordan, Clearfield, and Brigham City.
This epicenter is at 142 degrees from TC Jenna and may have been promted by energy from that source.
O: 04JAN2026 14:18:00 41.3N 111.6W ML=3.2 EMSC UTAH
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Colombia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Colombia in San Gil, Pinchote, Piedecuesta.
This epicenter is at 145 degrees from Taiwan and the fifth node from Yukon,
Canada and 105 from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 05JAN2026 05:35:40 6.7N 73.0W MB=4.9 EMSC NORTHERN COLOMBIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Ethiopia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Ethiopia in Mek'ele.
NEIC reported was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Tigray Ethiopia at Aksum and Mek'ele.
This earthquake may have been promoted by a moderate solar flare.
It occurred at the peak of flare 7570 (C1.7) near local solar midnight.
SWPC parameters for this flare follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7570 1959 2007 2013 C1.7 (January 4, 2026) 1.4E-03
Ethiopia M 3.4 20:05 UT
This earthquake may also have been promoted by the full moon of January 3
as it occurred near the longitude of maximum tidal stress with this
alignment as reported in previous issues of this summary:
"The full moon arrived on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are located near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026." (January 1-3, 2026)
This epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan; the sixth node
(60 degrees) from TC Jenna and 106 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 04JAN2026 20:05:35 13.6N 39.8E MB=4.5 EMSC ETHIOPIA
The strongest earthquake in the western hemisphere today was an M 4.8 near
the coast of Nicaragua. It was not reported felt. This event may have
been promoted by the passage of Tropical Cyclone Jenna at the antipode
of this epicenter as reported in this summary:
"TC JENNA 2026-01-05 00:00 UT 12.2S 94.1E 55 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 12N 86W - an area of Costa Rica and Nicaragua. These areas are active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is likely in the next three days." (January 5, 2026)
In addition to being nearly antipodal to TC Jenna this epicenter is located at the sixth node from Yukon, Canada and the fourth node (90 degrees) from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 04JAN2026 14:20:30 12.6N 87.8W MB=4.8 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NICARAGUA
The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.7 in the Prince Edward Island
area of the South Indian Ocean. It was not reported felt in this remote
epicentral area. This event also occurred near the longitude
of maximum tidal stress with the full moon of January 3, 2026. It is symmetric
about the equator with an M 4.0 in the Caucasus today (see below).
The last earthquake in the Prince Edward Islands region within about 200
km of today's epicenter with M>=5.7 occurred as an M 6.2 on May 31, 2024.
A significant earthquake of M 6.8 hit the region on May 21, 2023.
At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.8 in the Prince Edward
Islands of the South Indian Ocean. It was not reported felt in this remote area.
This is the strongest earthquake in the Prince Edward Islands region within about
300 km of these epicenters in at least 35 years. The largest previous earthquake
in this time frame in this area was an M 6.3 exactly 25 years ago today on
May 21, 1998 within about 200 km of today's epicenter." (May 21, 2023)
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from Taiwan (Node 7) and at the sixth node from
TC Jenna and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 04JAN2026 13:07:06 43.4S 39.2E MW=5.7 EMSC PRINCE EDWARD ISLANDS REGION
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.0 in northern California south of San Francisco was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of northern California south of San Francisco in Day Valley, Aptos Hills, Larkin Valley, Aptos. Seacliff, Soquel, Live Oak, Twin Lakes, Santa Cruz, San Martin.
This earthquake may have been promoted by a moderate solar flare - the strongest
of the day as it occurred near local solar noon at the peak of flare 7580 - a C2.8
event. Data for this flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7580 2051 2101 2109 C2.9 (January 4, 2026) 2.5E-03
No. California M 2.8 21:14 UT
Michoacan M 4.1 21:15 UT
This epicenter is located at 102 degrees from central Philippins and a the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Honshu, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 04JAN2026 21:14:16 37.0N 121.8W MD=2.8 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
The earthquake in the Caucasus of M 4.0 today (see above) was reported felt lightly in Russia at Lazarevskoye, and Sochi.
Like the earthquake in northern California (see above) this epicenter is at
the fifth node (72 degrees) from Honshu (and Kamchatka) and may have been
promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 04JAN2026 09:47:10 43.9N 39.4E ML=4.0 EMSC CAUCASUS REGION, RUSSIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in northern Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of northern Chile at Arica.
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE JENNA (12S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC JENNA 2026-01-05 00:00 UT 12.2S 94.1E 55 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Jenna (12S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 12N 86W - an area of Costa Rica and Nicaragua. These areas are active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is likely in the next three days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2026-01-05 00:00 UT 16.1S 59.7E 40 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 40 kts off the east coast of Madagascar. The antipode is at 16N 120W - is in an aseismic section of the North Pacific Ocean.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 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 and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7490 1047 1055 1105 C1.6 (January 4, 2026) 1.6E-03
South Sandwich Is. M 4.7 10:36 UT
Guerrero M 4.0 10:46 UT
Kamchatka M 5.1 11:01 UT
Baja California M 3.4 11:01 UT
7550 1522 1525 1527 C1.7 (January 4, 2026) 6.0E-04
Arizona M 2.7 15:35 UT
7560 1740 1821 1844 C1.9 (January 4, 2026) 6.9E-03
Southern Italy M 3.7 17:48 UT
Kamchatka M 4.3 17:55 UT M 4.4 18:07 UT
7570 1959 2007 2013 C1.7 (January 4, 2026) 1.4E-03
Ethiopia M 3.4 20:05 UT
Kuril Is. M 4.2 20:12 UT
No. California M 2.4 20:01 UT
7580 2051 2101 2109 C2.9 (January 4, 2026) 2.5E-03
No. California M 2.8 21:14 UT
Michoacan M 4.1 21:15 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled conditions January 5 quiet January 6-7, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 50% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies: global: 6 high: 2, mid-latitude: 4, time of max AP: 23:00 UT; Max AP: 3; Sunspot Number: 97; Radio Flux: 157
A light geomagnetic storm began around 21:20 UT on January 4. GOES 8 and 9
magnetometers showed about 20% increase in geomagnetic field strength
within about 5 minutes at this time. This storm reached global Kp of 4.3 around 08:00 UT on
January 5 with high latitude K- index of 6 at that time. Sudden commencement storms can help
promote associated enhanced seismicity but generally lead to reduced
seismicity globally in the next two days while systems reconfigure.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 4, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In the past several issues, this summary has followed the continuing activity
in Northern Japan with interest. This is a continuing series which began
on November 9, 2025 (M 6.8) with ensuing events on December 8, 2025 (M 7.6)
and December 31, 2025 (M 6.0). A further strong earthquake in this series is possible
but unlikely (unless a major unexpected solar flare occurs) around January 6-8, 2026 in the northern Honshu to Hokkaido area.
These events have been associated with major solar flares of high M-class to X-class and appear to be related to a sunspot
group rotating with the sun. If this continues a second time for another such event
would be around January 23-27, 2026. This would be most likely to the northeast
of the current series in the Southern Kuril Islands. This summary will continue
to monitor this region for changes in this pattern.
The strongest earthquake felt in the world today was an M 4.7 in Eastern Turkey.
NEIC reported it was felt in Turkey with intensity III in Elazig and II in Gaziantep.
EMSC reported moderate to strong shaking in eastern Turkey in Kale, Kussarayi, Elazig, Battalgazi, Malatya, Yesilyurt, Akincilar, Ergani, Adiyaman, Kayapinar, Sur, Karakopru, Sanliurfa, Suruc, Birecik, Sehitkamil, and in Syria at Manbij and Aleppo.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=4.7 occurred
as an M 4.7 on April 27, 2025. These appear to be aftershocks of an M 6.0
of October 16, 2024. At the time this summary noted:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.0 in eastern Turkey. NEIC reported maximum intensity VII (with damage) was felt in Turkey at Elazig and Malatya with V in in Yesilyurt. Intensity IV was reported in Diyarbakir, Erzincan, Gaziantep with intensity II-III in Doganyol, Malatya and Sivric, Elazig and Mazidagi, Mardin, and Ordu, Turkey.
EMSC reported this event was widely and strongly felt in eastern Turkey at Bulgurlu, Zaviye, Atasehir, Dilek, Yesilyurt, Caydacira, Universite, Elazig, Dilek, Kirklar, Girne, Eskisaray, Adiyaman, Varlik, Aktuluk, Kuptepe, Yaslica, Yaytas, Yenikent, Atakent, Firat, Diclekent, Fabrika among others within about 400 km of the epicenter. Also reported lightly felt in Iraq, Syria, Georgia, Lebanon, Cyprus.
The mainshock was accompanied by a series of foreshocks and aftershocks suggesting
strong regional stresses at this time. This included an M 4.3 yesterday reported
in this summary as:
"NEIC reported this earthquake of M 4.3 in Eastern Turkey was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Eastern Turkey in Doganyol and Agin Elazig.
EMSC reported light shaking in Turkey at Hilalkent, Atasehir, Abdullah Pasa, Sursuru, Cumhuriyet, Universite, Rizaiye, Firat, Yurukselim." (October 15, 2024)
This is the strongest earthquake in the region of Europe or the Middle East
since February 20, 2023 when an M 6.3 occurred about 300 km southwest of today's
epicenter and February 6, 2023 when the last earthquake in eastern Turkey within about 200 km of today's epicenter
occurred as an M 6.0 on February 6, 2023 - an aftershock of the major events of M 7.8 and M 7.5
in the area of February 6, 2023 and is the strongest aftershock of that
activity since the M 6.0 of February 6, 2023. At the time this summary noted:
"The major earthquake activity in Turkey and Syria continued today with an aftershock of M 7.5-7.6 to the M 7.8 reported in the previous issue of this summary.
Nearly 8700 are now confirmed dead in Turkey (6234) and Syria (2500) from these earthquakes and this number expected to continue to rise as hundreds are still trapped below rubble.
Estimated death tolls could reach 20,000 in the area. There is little available fuel or electricity in the area, nearly the area of
the northeast U.S. The last earthquake causing as many deaths was an M 9.0 in Japan
with a massive tsunami on March 11, 2011. An earthquake of M 7.0 in Haiti in
January, 2010 is estimated to have taken the lives of 220,000-320,000 people. More than 20,000
were injured with thousands of structures damaged or destroyed according to latest
estimates. The number of displaced people - including refugees - affected by these
earthquakes numbers in the hundreds of thousands. Regional airports are only
servicing rescue aircraft. All civilian planes have been grounded. Arrival of aid
is also hampered by civil unrest in Turkey and Syria. Internet photos show large
areas of complete devastation. The earthquake occurred during
harsh winter weather and a cholera epidemic which are expected to continue. Today's event of M 7.5-7.6 occurred near local solar noon and was probably promoted by strong tidal stresses which
maximize near this hour with the full moon." (February 6, 2023)
Like the earthquakes of February 6, 2023, today's event also occurred within about
a day of the full moon and was probably promoted by tidal stresses associated with
this alignment as it occurred within about an hour of local solar noon, a time
when tidal stresses maximize.
...
Today's earthquake in Turkey follows a major series of geomagnetic storms
and may also have been promoted by geomagnetic effects as noted in previous
issues of this summary for example:
"The current geomagnetic storm - the strongest in the world since AP at high
latitudes occurred reached 91 and planetary AP reached 122 on August 8, 2024 -
continued today with high latitude AP 116. Severe storms are expected through
October 11 with minor storms October 12. Maximum Kp during the storm reached
Kp 9 - the highest of the scale around 18:00 UT shortly after the arrival
in the earth environment of the CME from the X9.0 flare of early October. Global seismic
conditions are expected to remain relatively quiet through the storm with
a likely temporary enhancement with the arrival of the CME early on October 10
and should increase significantly shortly after the end of the geomagnetic storm
on October 12-15." (October 10-12, 16 2024)
Readers may note this previous event in eastern Turkey occurred with
the full moon and strong geomagnetic disturbance.
Today's event also occurred near the longitude of maximum tidal stress with the
full moon of January 3, 2026 and may have been promoted by tidal stresses
with that alignment as noted in previous issues of this summary:
"The full moon arrived on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are located near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026." (January 1-3, 2026)
This event in Turkey also appears to have been promoted by a moderate solar
flare (#7350, C8.3). This is the largest solar flare in several days as
reported by SWPC. The earthquake in Turkey occurred at the maximum output
of this flare as recorded with the following parameters by SWPC:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7350 1723 1729 1732 C8.3 (January 3, 2026) 2.8E-03
Eastern Turkey M 3.7 17:27 UT
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Grant and at the
fifth node (72 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from
those sources.
O: 03JAN2026 17:27:29 38.4N 38.9E MW=4.7 EMSC EASTERN TURKEY
The strongest earthquake in the world today occurred as an M 5.9 in the Southeast Indian
Ridge. It was not reported felt in this remote area. This appears to be an aftershock
of an M 6.1 south of this epicenter which occurred on January 1, 2026. At the time
this summary noted in this regard:
"NEIC reported an earthquake of M 6.0 in the Southeast Indian Ridge was not felt in this
remote epicentral area. It occurred in late solar morning in this epicentral area (January 1, 2026). This is the strongest earthquake within about 300 km
of this epicenter in the Indian Ridge since an M 6.3 on March 24, 2018 and priot to that an M 6.4 on
November 10, 2010. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake in the South Indian Ocean of M 6.2-6.3 was also well forecast to occur
at this time. This is a remote area and this event was not reported felt. It
occurred near local solar midnight and tidal stresses may have helped promote
this event as did geomagnetic effects at this high latitude. The last earthquake
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.3 was an M 6.5 on November 10, 2010. Other quakes hit the
region with M 6.3-6.5 on October 29, 2005 and February 18, 1994. The antipode
of this event is in southern Ontario, Canada near Ohio at 45N 84W. A light
sympathetic quake could occur near this epicenter in the next several days." (March 24, 2018)
Today's epicenter in the Southeast Indian Rise is at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Taiwan; the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and the 10th node (36 degrees)
from Tropical Cyclones Iggy and Grant in addition to 144 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
energy from those sources." (January 1, 2026)
O: 03JAN2026 10:07:57 45.4S 96.5E MW=5.9 EMSC SOUTHEAST INDIAN RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Southern Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Peru in Chincha Alta Ica.
O: 03JAN2026 20:17:53 14.6S 76.3W MB=4.4 EMSC NEAR COAST OF CENTRAL PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Taiwan was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Taiwan in Taipei.
O: 03JAN2026 19:52:50 24.7N 121.8E ML=4.4 EMSC TAIWAN
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 Marina.
O: 03JAN2026 14:09:46 36.5N 121.1W MD=2.6 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.2 in Bio-Bio, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Bio-Bio, Chile in Lebu.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Ecuador was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Ecuador in Riobamba.
O: 03JAN2026 08:46:49 1.9S 78.9W MB=4.5 EMSC ECUADOR
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE 12S
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 12S 2026-01-04 00:00 UT 9.0S 95.2E 50 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical 12S formed today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 50 kts south of Sumatra. Increased seismicity south of Sumatra is possible but unlikely at this time. The antipode is at 9N 85W - is south of Panama in an area where a moderate earthquake is possible at this time. TC 12S will then move to the south over the next two days putting it antipodal to Costa Rica and Nicaragua. These areas are active at this time and a moderate antipodal earthquake in this area is likely in the next three days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2026-01-04 00:00 UT 16.0S 62.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 45 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely at TC Grant passes to the north in the next days but should cease as TC Grant makes landfall in Madagascar on January 5-6. The antipode is at 16N 118W - is south of The Gulf of California, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity north of this epicenter is possible but unlikely at this time.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 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 and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7270 0127 0137 0152 C2.9 (January 3, 2026) 3.6E-03
New Guinea M 5.0 01:26 UT
Guerrero M 4.3 01:35 UT
Papua M 3.5 01:30 UT
7280 0606 0619 0637 C2.3 (January 3, 2026) 4.2E-03
Tonga M 4.7 06:16 UT
Tonga M 4.7 06:15 UT
7300 0637 0643 0647 C2.5 (January 3, 2026) 1.7E-03
7290 0741 0749 0755 C2.0 (January 3, 2026) 1.7E-03
Southern California M 2.0 07:44 UT
7340 1451 1458 1507 C2.4 (January 3, 2026) 2.2E-03
7350 1723 1729 1732 C8.3 (January 3, 2026) 2.8E-03
Eastern Turkey M 3.7 17:27 UT
7360 1856 1909 1919 C1.7 (January 3, 2026) 2.3E-03
Gulf of Aden M 4.5 19:10 UT
7370 2026 2038 2045 C3.5 (January 3, 2026) 3.2E-03
Talaud M 4.8 20:46 UT
7390 2215 2219 2224 C1.7 (January 3, 2026) 1.0E-03
New Britain M 5.0 22:25 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: minor storms January 4 and unsettled conditions January 5 quiet January 6, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 50% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 12 28 10 18:00 6 136 165
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 3, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
In the issue of this summary on December 30, 2025 the following was stated:
"SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE HAYLEY (10S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC HAYLEY 2025-12-30 00:00 UT 16.5S 122.0E 110 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 16N 58W - is in the area of the Leeward Islands where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2025-12-30 00:00 UT 14.3S 78.3E 135 kts South of India
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of India winds up to 135 kts as a suddenly forming major storm. The antipode is at 15N 102W - is east of Central America and south of Guerrero, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity is possible." (December 30, 2025)
These were the only tropical cyclones active on that date in the world. This
is notable because today January 2, 2026 the two largest earthquakes of
the current year occurred in Guerrero, Mexico (M 6.5) and Martinique/Guadeloupe (M 5.5).
These appear to be consistent with antipodal focusing of energy from the two
tropical cyclones noted above.
These areas also show consistent triggering at times of lunar-solar alignments
and these earthquakes were probably promoted by the full moon tidal stresses
of January 3 as noted in previous issues of this summary as:
"The full moon will arrive on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are located near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026." (January 1-2, 2026)
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 6.5 in Guerrero, Mexico. NEIC
reported it was felt widely with damage in Guerrero and intensity up to VIII in Ayutla, VI in Chilapa, V in Acamixtla, Acapulco, Tlapa, Chjilpancingo, Cuautitlan, Totolapan and in Mexico City; IV in Puebla Mexico at Teziutlan, Ocoyucan, Momoxpan, Taxco, in Uruapan, Ocampo, Michoacan, in Mexico City area at Xico, Nezahualcoyotl, Metepec, Buenavista, Mesico City, Atenco, Naucalpan and III in Tlaxcala, Oxaca, Jalisco, Michoacan, Querretaro, Veracruz, Morelos, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Coatepec, Los Reyes, and as far as 700 km from the epicenter.
A number of moderate aftershocks were also lightly felt in the area of Guerrero.
Press reports (BBC) report at least two were killed in the earthquake with one
in Mexico City where 12 were injured. Minor damage to built structures was
extensive but only two buildings appeared to be likely to collapse although
39 others were being assessed for possible demolition. Roads and hospitals
were impacted with many landslides on roads in Guerrero State.
This is the strongest earthquake in the area of Guerrero within about 250 km
of this epicenter since an M 7.0 on September 8, 2021. At the time this summary
noted:
"A major earthquake of M 7.0 shook the region of Guerrero, Mexico south of Mexico City today.
A foreshock of M 4.2 occurred several hours before the mainshock and was felt in Guerrero with IV at Acatlan, Zihuatanejo, Coatepec,Mexico City and II-III in Tlapa, Santos Reys, Oaxaca, Vista Hermosa, Naucalpan, Chautla, Puebla and in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
NEIC reported the mainshock was felt with maximum intensity VII with slight damage in Guerrero, Mexico at Acapulco, Chipancingo, and VI i El Ocotilo, Tepecoacuillc, Tizapotla and Taxco with IV in Tlapa and Huamuxtitlan and II-III in Xaltianguis and Petatlan and in Mexico City.
A number of aftershocks were lightly felt in the Mexico City and Tlalnepantla, Mexico area.
Reuters reported at least one person died in the quake when a pole fell on him.
The earthquake was centered near Acapulco, Mexico and caused damage as far
north as Mexico City with landslides. Tall buildings swayed and cars were crushed
by falling debris. A tsunami alert was not issued but minor sea level fluctuations
may have occurred. No earthquakes of M>=7 have occurred within about 100 km
of today's epicenter in the past 30 ye3ars. Earthquakes within about 250
km of this occurred about 250 km northeast on September 19, 2017 and to the northwest on April 18, 2014.
Similar events hit to the east of this on March 20, 2012 (M 7.4); February 25, 1996 (M 7.1) and September 14,
1995 (M 7.4). This earthquake occurred with the new moon and was
probably promoted by strong tidal stresses associated with that alignment.
...
A Tropical Depression made landfall off the coast of Guerrero, Mexico about
the time of the M 7.0. Stresses associated with this storm probably also
helped promote seismicity in this region of Mexico at this time as reported
in this summary as:
"Tropical Depression 15E formed south of western Mexico today with winds up to 40 kts. This system is expected to track to the north and west and may enhance seismicity in western and central Mexico. The M 7.0 in Guerrero, Mexico today may have been promoted by stresses associated with this storm." (September 6-7, 2021)
A series of moderate earthquakes north of this epicenter has been occurring
over the past two days. It is likely that this was precursory to today's
event in Guerrero, Mexico." (September 8, 2021)
Prior to that an M 7.1 occurred north of this epicenter on September 19, 2017 (also with the new moon).
This was discussed in this summary at the time as:
"The timing of today's earthquake near local solar noon in conjunction with the
new moon alignment strongly suggests tidal triggering to this event.
...
"... today's event of M 7.1 also was associated with
strong geomagnetic activity. ... occurred as the CME from the strongest
flare in 12 years hit the earth. Geomagnetic activity also peaked yesterday
at the strongest levels (KP 7) since September 8 and was probably also
promotional to the Mexican earthquake today as noted in the previous summary:
"The geomagnetic field was at active conditions today. The AP level was 22.
High latitude geomagnetic field saw major storms with AP at 51.
Strong seismicity is still possible within 10-15 degrees from the geomagnetic
equator and at high auroral latitudes around September 18-21." (September 19, 2017)
In addition to being antipodal to Tropical Cyclone Grant, this epicenter
in Guerrero, Mexico is also near 102 degrees from northern Japan, and at the seventh
node (52 degrees) from the Yukon, Canada and the third node (120 degrees)
from Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
A listing for events in this series of M>=4 follows. A more complete listing
can be found in the Data section of this report.
O: 02JAN2026 13:58:18 16.9N 99.3W Mw=6.5 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 13:58:18 16.9N 99.3W MB=6.5 NEIC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 21:42:06 16.6N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 14:17:32 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.2 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 16:28:45 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 19:25:12 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 20:53:34 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 21:18:20 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 21:37:27 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 23:06:45 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 00:34:11 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 00:37:48 16.7N 99.6W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 00:59:49 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 02:43:14 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 02:57:48 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 03:03:00 16.7N 99.6W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 03:06:56 16.7N 99.6W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 07:15:22 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 07:28:40 16.7N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 14:46:54 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 15:08:42 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 15:37:08 16.8N 99.2W ML=4.4 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 16:24:09 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.0 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 16:36:07 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 16:43:19 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 17:00:35 16.8N 99.4W mb=4.5 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 21:19:57 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.2 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 01:29:47 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.1 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 03JAN2026 01:34:49 16.8N 99.5W ML=4.3 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
O: 02JAN2026 15:34:18 16.9N 99.3W mb=4.2 EMSC GUERRERO, MEXICO
The M 5.5 in the Leeward Islands near Martinique and Guadeloupe today was reported felt in Martinique with intensity V in Le Marin, IV in La Trinite, Saint-Pierre, Saint-Joseph, Fort-d-France, Schoelcher, Le Francois, Les Trois-Ilets, Le Robert and in Castries, Saint Lucia.
EMSC reported a loud noise and strong shaking in Martinique at La Trinite, Le Robert, Le Francois, Le Lorrain, Le Gros-Morne, Le Vauclin, Saint-Joseph, Le Lamentin, Basse-Pointe, Ducos, Saint-Esprit, Ducos, Fort-de-France, Schoelcher, among others.
The last earthquake within the area of Martinique within about 150 km of today's
epicenter with M>=5.5 occurred on February 3, 2017. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquake of M 5.6 hit the region of Martinique in the eastern Caribbean
today. NEIC reported it was felt with maximum intensity VI in Le Lamentin, Fort-de-France, Martinique and V in Fort-de-France, Saint-Pierre, Schoelcher, Riviere-Salee and Le Robert, La Trinite, Martinique and in Dennery and Cap Estate, Gros Inlet, Saint Lucia. Intensity IV was reported from La Trinite, Le Lorrain, Ducos, Guadeloupe; in Byera, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Point-a-Pitre, Grande-Terre, Guadeloupe; Choc, Castries, Saint Lucia. It was also reported lightly felt with intensity II-III in Marginique at Gros-Morne, La Vauclin, Saint-Joseph, Rivere-Pilote, La Plaine, Martinique; in Dominica at Castle Bruce, Saint David, Marigot and Calibishie, Saint Andrew; Portsmouth, Saint John, Canefield, Saint Paul; Roseau, Saint George; Marigot, Saint Andrew, Dominica;
in Saint Lucia at Cap Estate, Gros Islet, Castries, Choc, Soufriere, Saint Lucia; Capesterre-Belle-Eau, Gourbeyre, Le Gosier, Basse-Terre, Saint-Claude, Petit-Bourg, Baie-Mahault, Sainte-Rose, Guadeloupe; in Saint Vincente and the Frenadines at Kingstown, Saint George and in Bridgetown, Saint Michael, Barbados and Orocovis, Puerto Rico.
The mainshock followed a light regional event of M 3.9 in Saint Kitts and Nevis and some
of the stated felt activity with the Martinique event may refer to the Saint
Kitts and Nevis earlier event. The last event in the Martinique region of M>=5.6
occurred on October 18, 2016 and prior to that an M 5.6 on December 8, 2015 and December 19, 2014.
The last event of M>5.6 in the area was an M 7.4 on November 27, 2007." (February 3, 2017)
Today's earthquake in Martinique occurred as a moderate geomagnetic storm reaching Kp 5 hit. The GOES-19 and GOES-18
magnetometer shows a sudden decline in geomagnetic field strength of about 50% beginning
around 21:40 UT and ending about 22:00 UT. The earthquake in Martinique
occurred during this geomagnetic field decline.
A small foreshock in the Guadeloupe area preceded today's M 5.5 and was reported
in the previous issue of this summary as:
"EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in the Leeward Islands near Guadeloupe was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Guadeloupe.
This epicenter is at the position of the antipode of Tropical Cyclone Hayley
on December 30, 2025. It is likely it was promoted by antipodal focused
energy from that source as reported at the time in this summary:
"TC HAYLEY 2025-12-30 00:00 UT 16.5S 122.0E 110 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 16N 58W - is in the area of the Leeward Islands where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow." (December 30,, 2025)
This area of the Caribbean is active and a further moderate earthquake
could still occur near this epicenter in the next several days.
This epicenter is located at 144 degrees from TC Grant, the fifth node (72 degrees) from the Yukon, Canada; the third
node (120 degrees) from Hokkaido and at 103 degrees from Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (January 1-2, 2026)
O: 02JAN2026 21:48:26 15.1N 60.5W MB=5.5 NEIC MARTINIQUE
Planetary K-index reached 5.0 (G1 geomagnetic storm levels) late in the UT day
maximizing around 21:50 UT which may have triggered the M 5.5 in Martinique. A second sudden decline in the GOES magnetometer geomagnetic field strength. Today's storm began with K-index at high latitudes around
14:00 UT. This may have triggered a strong earthquake in Guerrero, Mexico
which coincided with the sudden commencement of this storm.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.4 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii with III in Pahala, Honokaa, Pepeekeo, and II in Holualoa, Kailua Kona, Captain Cook, Hilo, Papaikou, Laupahoehoe and Kealakekua.
EMSC reported it was felt strongly in Hawaiian Ocean View and Honoka'a.
This epicenter is at 102 degrees from TC Iggy and may have been promoted by
energy from that source.
O: 02JAN2026 08:00:13 19.2N 155.4W MB=3.6 NEIC HAWAII
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2026-01-03 00:00 UT 15.0S 64.2E 45 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 45 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely at TC Grant passes to the north in the next two days. The antipode is at 15N 116W - is south of The Gulf of California, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity is possible.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 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 and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7120 0008 0017 0023 C6.5 (January 2, 2026) 3.9E-03
South Sandwich M 5.0 00:20 UT
Andreanof Is. M 3.7 00:17 UT
Eastern Turkey M 1.9 00:09 UT
7130 0057 0104 0108 C1.9 (January 2, 2026) 1.2E-03
San Francisco M 3.0 00:59 UT
7140 0141 0147 0150 C1.9 (January 2, 2026) 1.1E-03
7150 0245 0255 0259 C5.5 (January 2, 2026) 2.8E-03
Molucca Sea M 3.7 03:00 UT
7160 0352 0357 0403 C5.7 (January 2, 2026) 2.8E-03
Myanmar M 3.7 04:0 UT
7190 0907 0914 0916 C1.8 (January 2, 2026) 1.5E-03
7200 0916 0925 0937 C2.2 (January 2, 2026) 2.9E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.2 09:34 UT
Guerrero M 3.9 09:34 UT
Molucca Sea M 3.8 09:26 UT
7230 1238 1249 1255 C1.7 (January 2, 2026) 1.7E-03
7250 2048 2054 2058 C2.1 (January 2, 2026) 1.3E-03
Guerrero M 4.0 20:54 UT
Ecuador M 3.6 20:59 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: major storms January 3, 2026 with minor storms January 4 and unsettled conditions January 5, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 50% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 24 29 16 19:00 5 124 166
Planetary K-index reached 5.0 (G1 geomagnetic storm levels) late in the UT day
maximizing around 21:50 UT which may have triggered the M 5.5 in Martinique. A second sudden decline in the GOES magnetometer geomagnetic field strength. Today's storm began with K-index at high latitudes around
14:00 UT. This may have triggered a strong earthquake in Guerrero, Mexico
which coincided with the sudden commencement of this storm.
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 2, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The full moon will arrive on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are located near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026.
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.7 followed by an M 5.3 in southeastern Alaska.
NEIC reported it with felt with intensity III in Whitehorse and IV in Haines Junction, Yukon Territory, Canada and in Alaska with III in Yakjutat, Haines, Copper Center and lightly in Elfin Cove.
EMSC reported light shaking in Juneau, Alaska. This is the strongest aftershock to date of the M 7.0 of December 6, 2025
in the Yukon Territory, Canada although a similar event of M 5.7-5.8 occurred on December 8, 2025. A series of increasingly large aftershocks has occurred in this area over the
past several days as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.1 in southeastern Alaska
along the border with Yukon Territory, Canada. NEIC reported this event
was felt with intensity III in Yukon, Canada at Whitehorse and Haines Junction with II.
It follows a slow increase in regional seismicity over the past two days
as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"The strongest earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today were a series about 200 km outside the
aftershock zone southeast of the M 7.0 in the Yukon, Canada event of December 6, 2025.
These events of M 3.5 and 3.6 follow an M 4.6 in the region yesterday. That event
is the strongest aftershock of the December 6 mainshock since an M 4.7 on December
10, 2025. Recent increases in solar activity may indicate activation of the
area with the possibility of a further event of M>=5 in the next couple of
days. Today's earthquakes were probably felt with intensity up to III in the Elfin Cove area of
Alaska as per NEIC data.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Hokkaido
and may have been promoted by energy from that source." (December 29-30, 2025)
The M 5.7 in the Yukon Territory, Canada may have been promoted by a moderate
C5.3 solar flare - the second largest of the day as it occurred near the peak
output of this flare. SWPC reported the following parameters for this solar flare:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
7010 0642 0648 0651 C5.3 (January 1, 2026) 2.3E-03
Yukon M 5.3 06:55 UT
Yukon M 5.7 06:47 UT
Today's event of M 5.0 is located at 105 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Hayley
and may have been promoted by energy from that source as well as from Honshu, Japan." (December 31, 2025)
Today's epicenter of the M 5.7 is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 01JAN2026 06:46:53 60.5N 140.0W Mw=5.7 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:54:58 60.5N 140.1W Mw=5.3 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:02:52 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:08:30 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:11:42 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:17:01 60.5N 140.2W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:25:02 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:36:48 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:52:35 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 08:26:08 60.5N 140.2W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 08:48:24 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 12:52:18 60.5N 140.0W ML=4.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 22:54:34 60.5N 140.0W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 02JAN2026 01:35:55 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 02JAN2026 05:52:12 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:05:28 60.6N 140.2W ML=3.3 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:10:13 60.6N 139.9W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 15:48:48 60.6N 140.4W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 16:40:06 60.6N 139.9W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 02JAN2026 07:50:17 60.6N 139.9W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:54:37 60.4N 140.2W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANA
P: 01JAN2026 178576 61.0N 140.0W 3.2-5.3 AAAAA Central Alaska
P: 03JAN2026 178576 60.3N 139.6W 3.2-5.2 AAAAA Central Alaska
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in Baja California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Baja California in Reacomodo, Mexico.
This epicenter is located at 102 degrees from Taiwan; the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Kamchatka and at 60.0 degrees from the North Geomagnetic pole and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 02JAN2026 02:33:01 32.4N 115.2W ML=2.4 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
O: 01JAN2026 08:02:18 31.4N 115.6W ML=3.1 EMSC BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.1 in San Francisco, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of San Francisco, California with IV in Diablo, III in San Ramon, Danville, Oakland, Dublin, Pleasanton, Oakland, Clayton, Concord, Lafayette, and II in Alameda, Walnut Creek, Livermore, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Fremont, Alamo, Hayward.
EMSC reported a loud jolt with rolling waves in California at San Ramon, Blackhawk, Dublin, Castro Valley and Firview in the Hayward Hills.
O: 02JAN2026 00:58:59 37.8N 122.0W ML=3.0 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 02JAN2026 07:13:46 37.3N 121.7W MD=2.2 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.6 near Adak, Alaska was probably felt with intensity up to II-III in the area.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects which maximize near this hour.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Taiwan, and the third node (120 degrees)
from the South Geomagnetic Pole. It is also at the 10th node (36 degrees) from the
North Geomagneti Pole and near the fourth node (90 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Iggy
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 02JAN2026 00:17:46 51.4N 176.5W ML=3.7 EMSC ANDREANOF ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN IS
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.4 in Bio-Bio Chile was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Bio-Bio Chile at Los Angeles.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Cabrero and Los Angeles, Chile.
This epicenter is at the third node from Cyclone Grant and may have been
promoted by energy from that source.
O: 01JAN2026 13:25:41 37.2S 72.7W MB=4.4 EMSC BIO-BIO, CHILE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.9 in Myanmar was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Myanmar with III in Kyaukse, Mandalay and II in Pakokku, Magway.
EMSC reported strong shaking in Myanmar at Shwebo, Mandalay, Sagaing, and Nyaungshwe.
This epicenter is at the ninth node (40 degrees) from Tropical Cyclones Iggy and Grant;
at the fourth node from the South Geomagnetic Pole and at the eighth node (45 degrees)
from Hokkaido and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01JAN2026 13:19:00 22.8N 95.9E MB=4.9 EMSC MYANMAR
O: 01JAN2026 14:03:19 22.6N 96.2E ML=4.4 EMSC MYANMAR
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Zulia, Venezuela was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Zulia, Venezuela in Maracaibo.
This event may have been promoted by antipodal energy focused from Tropical
Storm Iggy as noted in the previous issue of this summary:
"TC IGGY 2026-01-01 00:00 UT 13.0S 109.0E 55 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Iggy (11S) formed today in the region of north of western Australia winds up to 55 kts in a non-seismic area. The antipode is at 14N 71W - is in the region north of Venezuela and could tigger a moderate seismic event near this location in the next several days." (January 1, 2026)
In addition to the antipode of TC Iggy this epicenter is at the third node from Hokkaido
and 143 degrees from Taiwan and 102 degrees from Kamchatka and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01JAN2026 12:37:04 10.4N 72.0W MB=4.6 EMSC ZULIA, VENEZUELA
P: 01JAN2026 178379 12.0N 72.0W 4.0-5.6 ABAAA Colombia
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines with IV in Bislig, Caraga and in Canocotan, Southern Mindanao with III in Andili and II in Buayan, southern Mindanao and in Sibagat, Caraga.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Mindanao at Mati, Magugpo Poblacion, Davao.
In addition to being at the fifth node (72 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
pole, this epicenter is at the 12th node (30 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Iggy
and at the seventh node (51 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Grant and may have
been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 01JAN2026 10:46:12 7.8N 126.8E MB=5.0 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported a series of light earthquake of M 3.0-3.5 in Czechia was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Czechia at Luby, Plesna, Olovi, Kraslice, Rotava, Habartov, Klingenthal, As, Brezova, Cheb, Vresova, Nejdek, Chodov, Karlovy Vary, Horni Slavkov, Otovice, and in Germany at Theuma, Pohl, Morgenrothe-Rautenkranz and Schneeberg.
This epicenter is at the fourth node from Tropical Cyclone Grant and at 105
degrees from TC Iggy and may have been promoted by energy from those sourcs.
O: 01JAN2026 17:04:52 50.3N 12.5E ML=3.4 EMSC CZECH REPUBLIC
O: 01JAN2026 16:38:25 50.3N 12.4E ML=3.3 EMSC CZECH REPUBLIC
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 3.2 in the Leeward Islands near Guadeloupe was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Guadeloupe.
This epicenter is at the position of the antipode of Tropical Cyclone Hayley
on December 30, 2025. It is likely it was promoted by antipodal focused
energy from that source as reported at the time in this summary:
"TC HAYLEY 2025-12-30 00:00 UT 16.5S 122.0E 110 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 16N 58W - is in the area of the Leeward Islands where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow." (December 30,, 2025)
This area of the Caribbean is active and a further moderate earthquake
could still occur near this epicenter in the next several days.
This epicenter is located at 144 degrees from TC Grant, the fifth node (72 degrees) from the Yukon, Canada; the third
node (120 degrees) from Hokkaido and at 103 degrees from Kamchatka and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 02JAN2026 04:38:26 15.9N 60.9W ML=3.2 EMSC GUADELOUPE REGION, LEEWARD ISL
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE IGGY (11S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC IGGY 2026-01-02 00:00 UT 16.0S 108.5E 40 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Iggy (11S) continued today in the region of north of western Australia winds up to 55 kts in a non-seismic area. The antipode is at 16N 71W - is in the region south of Haiti and Dominican Republic and could trigger a moderate seismic event near this location in the next several days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2026-01-02 00:00 UT 15.0S 67.2E 55 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 55 kts north of Reunion and Mauritius. Increased volcanism in these islands is likely at TC Grant passes to the north in the next three days. The antipode is at 15N 113W - is south of The Gulf of California, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity is possible.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of January 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 and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6920 0056 0103 0108 C1.7 (January 1, 2026) 1.3E-03
Southern Greece M 3.5 00:56 UT
6930 0119 0124 0128 C1.8 (January 1, 2026) 1.0E-03
SE Indian Ridge M 6.0 01:53 UT
6960 0215 0225 0233 C9.6 (January 1, 2026) 6.7E-03
Hokkaido M 3.7 02:23 UT
Kamchatka M 4.4 02:13 UT
6990 0534 0537 0542 C2.0 (January 1, 2026) 1.1E-03
Kamchatka M 4.9 05:47 UT
Central California M 2.1 05:38 UT
7000 0552 0604 0609 C2.4 (January 1, 2026) 3.2E-03
Papua M 5.0 06:02 UT
7040 0609 0622 0629 C4.4 (January 1, 2026) 4.4E-03
Hindu Kush M 4.3 06:14 UT
7010 0642 0648 0651 C5.3 (January 1, 2026) 2.3E-03
Yukon M 5.3 06:55 UT
Yukon M 5.7 06:47 UT
7060 1504 1510 1515 C1.6 (January 1, 2026) 1.1E-03
Kamchatka M 4.8 15:17 UT
Panama M 3.8 15:17 UT
7070 1548 1555 1603 C2.1 (January 1, 2026) 1.9E-03
Hokkaido M 4.3 15:56 UT
Sucre, Venezuela M 3.7 16:11 UT
7080 1727 1759 1830 C6.2 (January 1, 2026) 1.5E-02
Ryukyu Is. M 3.7 17:32 UT
Nevada M 2.1 17:38 UT
7090 1846 1855 1905 C3.9 (January 1, 2026) 4.6E-03
Mindanao M 3.9 18:53 UT
Hawaii M 2.0 18:45 UT
7100 2143 2150 2155 C2.7 (January 1, 2026) 1.8E-03
Kermadec Islands M 3.9 21:46 UT
Guerrero M 3.9 22:09 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: major storms January 3, 2026 with minor storms January 2 and 4, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 50% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 12 15 10 17:00 5 120 169
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
January 1, 2026
Notable earthquakes and events:
The full moon will arrive on January 3, 2026 at 10:03 UT. Longitudes which are at local solar noon at this time are localed near 27 East longitude while those at local solar midnight are near 154 West longitude. In the west these include Hawaii and areas of eastern and southern Alaska and to a lesser extent areas off the coast of Oregon and California and the east Pacific Rise while in the east they include Western Turkey and Greece and Romania as well as Ethiopia and areas off southern Africa and eastern Europe. These and surrounding areas are the most likely to see tidally enhanced seismicity at this time. A large to major earthquake is considered moderately likely in the period January 1-8, 2026.
A strong M-class solar flare (#6870) occurred today. This flare - initially classified by SWPC - as an M7.1
is the strongest solar flare reported since an X1.9 (#230) on December 1, 2025
and an X1.1 on December 8, 2025 (#2960). Following are the flare parameters for this flare from SWPC.
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6870 1312 1351 1445 M7.1 (December 31, 2025) 1.2E-01 *
BANDA Sea M 4.1 13:30 UT
Yap, Micronesia M 4.7 13:45 UT
Loyalty Is. M 5.0 13:51 UT
Northern Honshu, M 6.0 14:26 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
At the time of the X1.1 flare on December 8, 2025 this summary noted:
"Today's earthquake (of M 7.6 in Hokkaido, Japan) occurred within minutes of local solar midnight, a time
when triggering of seismicity is most likely by tidal and geomagnetic effects
and this event may have been promoted by a strong X1.1 flare earlier in the day.
In the previous issue of this summary it had been noted that a strong X1.1
flare earlier in the day could result in this type and placement of a
strong earthquake later on December 8, 2025 as:
The most likely seismic enhancement with this flare would occur near 75 West
and 105 East longitudes including areas of western South America and eastern
Indonesia among others (including to the north along the western Pacific Rim). A moderate to strong quake is possible in these areas
before the end of the day." (December 8, 2025)
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0448 0510 0525 X1.1 (December 8, 2025) 1.1E-01 *
Myanmar M 3.8 04:49 UT
Yukon, Canada M 3.6 04:49 UT
Kuril Is. M 4.5 04:58 UT
" (December 8, 2025)
Similar triggered seismicity with the today's M7.1 solar flare could
be expected along the western Pacific rim (especially in Japan).
In Fact, toward the end of today's M7.1 flare, a strong earthquake did
occur - in Hokkaido, Japan with M 6.0 the the following parameters:
Readers should note the coincidence in timing with the M 7.6 of December 8, 2025
(within about 12 minutes of the same time of day) as recorded in this
summary:
O: 31DEC2025 14:26:56 40.1N 142.9E MW=6.0 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 08DEC2025 14:15:10 41.0N 143.1E MW=7.6 EMSC NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
O: 09NOV2025 08:03:38 39.5N 143.3E Mw=6.8 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar midnight during the
M7.1 solar flare described above. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity
up to IV in Morioka, Iwate and lightly in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
This is the strongest earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter since
the M 7.6 and M 6.6 on December 8, 2025 and an aftershock of M 6.7 on December 12, 2025.
Readers should note the coincidence in timing with the M 7.6 of December 8, 2025
(within about 12 minutes of the same time of day). Today's epicenter lies about 100 km south of those events and about 100 km north of the M 6.8 in
northern Honshu of November 9 and 10, 2025. The M 6.8 in northern Honshu
of that date (which began the current series of strong earthquakes in northern Japan) also occurred towards the end of a major solar flare - an X1.7
as reported in this summary and SWPC with parameters:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6870 1312 1351 1445 M7.1 (December 31, 2025) 1.2E-01 *
Northern Honshu, M 6.0 14:26 UT
4640 0654 0733 0843 X1.7 (November 9, 2025) 3.2E-01
Honshu M 6.8 08:03 UT
This M7.1 today was the strongest solar flare reported by SWPC before the X1.7 on
December 8, 2025.
The epicenter of M 6.0 in northern Honshu today was located at the seventh node from Yukon, Canada
and at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Iggy.
All of these events (including today's M 6.0) are likely to have been promoted
and triggered by Solar Flare Effects (SFE) associated with major solar flares.
Moderate earthquakes near local solar midnight also occurred and were related
to the M7.1 solar flare in Micronesia (M 4.7) and the Loyalty Islands (M 5.0).
An earthquake of M 4.1 occurred in North Island, New Zealand today. GeoNet
reported the following parameters for this event:
O: 31DEC2025 12:09:41 40.2S 174.4E MB=4.1 GEONET Felt with moderate intensity in the area southeast of Levin, New Zealand and in southern North Island and northern South Island. 154 reports of felt events were made of which 96 reported weak and 55 light intensity with 3 reports of moderate shaking and 0 with strong and 0 severe and 0 with extreme intensity came from the area.
This eicenter is located at the fourth node from Tropical Cyclone Grant (90 degrees)
and at the sixth node from Tropical Cyclone Iggy and may have been promoted
by energy from those sources.
O: 31DEC2025 12:09:41 40.2S 174.4E ML=4.0 EMSC COOK STRAIT, NEW ZEALAND
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.7 followed by an M 5.3 in southeastern Alaska.
NEIC reported it with felt with intensity III in Whitehorse and IV in Haines Junction, Yukon Territory, Canada and in Alaska with III in Yakjutat, Haines, Copper Center and lightly in Elfin Cove.
This is the strongest aftershock to date of the M 7.0 of December 6, 2025
in the Yukon Territory, Canada although a similar event of M 5.7-5.8 occurred on December 8, 2025. A series of increasingly large aftershocks has occurred in this area over the
past several days as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.1 in southeastern Alaska
along the border with Yukon Territory, Canada. NEIC reported this event
was felt with intensity III in Yukon, Canada at Whitehorse and Haines Junction with II.
It follows a slow increase in regional seismicity over the past two days
as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"The strongest earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today were a series about 200 km outside the
aftershock zone southeast of the M 7.0 in the Yukon, Canada event of December 6, 2025.
These events of M 3.5 and 3.6 follow an M 4.6 in the region yesterday. That event
is the strongest aftershock of the December 6 mainshock since an M 4.7 on December
10, 2025. Recent increases in solar activity may indicate activation of the
area with the possibility of a further event of M>=5 in the next couple of
days. Today's earthquakes were probably felt with intensity up to III in the Elfin Cove area of
Alaska as per NEIC data.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Hokkaido
and may have been promoted by energy from that source." (December 29-30, 2025)
Today's event of M 5.0 is located at 105 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Hayley
and may have been promoted by energy from that source as well as from Honshu, Japan." (December 31, 2025)
Today's epicenter of the M 5.7 is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from
Taiwan and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 01JAN2026 07:54:37 60.4N 140.2W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:46:53 60.5N 140.0W Mw=5.7 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:49:06 60.5N 140.0W ML=4.3 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:51:01 60.5N 140.1W mb=4.8 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:02:52 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:08:30 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:11:42 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:17:01 60.5N 140.2W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:25:02 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.7 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:36:48 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:52:35 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 08:26:08 60.5N 140.2W ML=3.1 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 08:43:17 60.5N 140.0W ML=2.9 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 08:48:24 60.5N 140.1W ML=3.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:54:15 60.6N 140.0W ML=3.9 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:54:58 60.6N 140.1W Mw=5.3 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 06:57:50 60.6N 140.1W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:05:28 60.6N 140.2W ML=3.3 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 01JAN2026 07:10:13 60.6N 139.9W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 31DEC2025 23:04:29 51.3N 159.7E mb=4.6 EMSC OFF EAST COAST OF KAMCHATKA
O: 01JAN2026 00:03:05 60.4N 139.6W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANA
P: 28DEC2025 178312 60.1N 139.4W 3.2-5.1 BAAAA Central Alaska
A moderate earthquake of M 5.3 also occurred today in the area of northern Argentina
near San Antonio de los Cobres. This earthquake occurred at an intermediate
depth of 182 km and was not reported felt at the surface. It occurred within
a couple of minutes of local solar midnight at a latitude which was nearly
sub-solar today (January 1, 2026) and may have been promoted by tidal and/or
geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour and latitude.
This epicenter is located at 143 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Iggy and at
103 degrees from the Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy
from those sources. It is also nearly antipodal to Taiwan.
O: 01JAN2026 04:26:24 24.2S 66.8W MW=5.3 EMSC SALTA, ARGENTINA
Another earthquake of interest today was an M 5.4 in the Banda Sea, Indonesia.
NEIC reported it was probably felt with intensity up to III in the epicentral
This event occurred several minutes of local solar noon and was probably promoted
by tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses which maximize near this hour and latitude.
This epicenter is near the 12th node from Taiwan and the sixth node from
Cyclone Grant and may have been promoted by energy from those sourcs.
O: 01JAN2026 03:05:26 6.5S 129.9E MB=5.4 EMSC BANDA SEA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 6.0 in the Southeast Indian Ridge was not felt in this
remote epicentral area. It occurred in late solar morning in this epicentral area (January 1, 2026). This is the strongest earthquake within about 300 km
of this epicenter in the Indian Ridge since an M 6.3 on March 24, 2018 and priot to that an M 6.4 on
November 10, 2010. At the time this summary noted:
"An earthquake in the South Indian Ocean of M 6.2-6.3 was also well forecast to occur
at this time. This is a remote area and this event was not reported felt. It
occurred near local solar midnight and tidal stresses may have helped promote
this event as did geomagnetic effects at this high latitude. The last earthquake
within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.3 was an M 6.5 on November 10, 2010. Other quakes hit the
region with M 6.3-6.5 on October 29, 2005 and February 18, 1994. The antipode
of this event is in southern Ontario, Canada near Ohio at 45N 84W. A light
sympathetic quake could occur near this epicenter in the next several days." (March 24, 2018)
Today's epicenter in the Southeast Indian Rise is at the fifth node (72 degrees)
from Taiwan; the sixth node (60 degrees) from Mindanao and the 10th node (36 degrees)
from Tropical Cyclones Iggy and Grant in addition to 144 degrees from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
enery from those sources.
O: 01JAN2026 01:53:01 45.6S 96.4E MW=6.0 EMSC SOUTHEAST INDIAN RIDGE
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska in Kenai, Anchorage, Soldotna.
O: 31DEC2025 20:36:18 60.0N 152.9W ML=4.0 EMSC SOUTHERN ALASKA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.1 in Mindanao, Philippines was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Mindanao, Philippines in General Luna.
O: 31DEC2025 16:56:52 9.7N 126.2E ML=4.1 EMSC MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.0 in Antofagasta, Chile was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Antofagasta, Chile.
O: 31DEC2025 12:37:41 23.9S 70.6W ML=4.0 EMSC OFFSHORE ANTOFAGASTA, CHILE
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE IGGY (11S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC IGGY 2026-01-01 00:00 UT 13.0S 109.0E 55 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Iggy (11S) formed today in the region of north of western Australia winds up to 55 kts in a non-seismic area. The antipode is at 14N 71W - is in the region north of Venezuela and could tigger a moderate seismic event near this location in the next several days.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2026-01-01 00:00 UT 16.0S 68.2E 65 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 65 kts as a Strong storm. The antipode is at 16N 112W - is south of The Gulf of California, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity is possible.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of December 31, 2025. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6750 0023 0027 0030 C1.8 (December 31, 2025) 8.5E-04
Kuril Is. M 4.4 00:27 UT
Cebu Philippines M 3.8 00:28 UT
6760 0123 0132 0135 C5.9 (December 31, 2025) 2.5E-03
6780 0626 0635 0648 C2.1 (December 31, 2025) 2.7E-03
New Zealand M 3.1 06:40 UT
Sumatra M 3.8 06:28 UT
6800 0942 0952 1003 C3.6 (December 31, 2025) 4.1E-03
New Zealand M 3.2 09:45 UT
6830 1003 1012 1016 C3.8 (December 31, 2025) 3.0E-03
6850 1237 1244 1254 C1.9 (December 31, 2025) 1.9E-03
Antofagasta M 4.0 12:37 UT
6870 1312 1351 1445 M7.1 (December 31, 2025) 1.2E-01
BANDA Sea M 4.1 13:30 UT
Yap, Micronesia M 4.7 13:45 UT
Loyalty Is. M 5.0 13:51 UT
Northern Honshu, M 6.0 14:26 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: major storms January 3, 2026 with minor storms January 1-2, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 20% proton storm: 40%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 7 17 7 17:00 6 127 171
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
December 31, 2025
Notable earthquakes and events:
A moderate earthquake of M 5.0 was widely felt today in the region of
Northern California near Susanville near local solar midnight. NEIC reported it was felt with intensity
up to VII in the epicentral area with reported intensities to NEIC of V in
California at Susanville; III in Fort Bidwell, Twain Harte, Old Station, Crescent Mills, Sierraville, Janesville, McCloud, Taylorsville, milford, Chilcoot, Kings Beach, Cedarville, Camptonville, Chester, Greenville, Canyon Dam, Quincy, McArthur, Meadow Vista, Alta, Doyle,Olympic Valley, Sparks, Grass Valley, and in Nevada at Reno, Sparks, among others within about 150 km of the epicenter.
EMSC reported strong shaking in northern California at Hamilton Branch, Magalia, Cedarville, Chico, Redding, San Francisco and in Nevada at North Valleys, Lemon Valley, Reno, Sparks.
At M 5.0 this is the strongest earthquake in northern California within
about 200 km of this epicenter since an M 5.5 and M 5.2 southeast of this epicenter
on May 11 and 12, 2023.
Today's event is part of a series that began with an M 4.7 on December 29 and is the largest in that
series. It followed four days after the M 7.0 in Taiwan of December 27
and had been expected in this summary at the time as:
"The lull in seismicity in the region of northern California came to an
end today. This began when an M 2.4 occurred in the San Francisco Bay,
California occurred at 15:16 UT but continued with an M 2.8 and M 2.3
within minutes of local solar noon, again in the San Francisco Bay area.
But the main event in the series was an M 4.7 northeast of San Francisco.
These earthquakes were associated with a series of moderate C- to moderate
M-class solar flares. For example the M 2.8 in San Francisco occurred
especially the local noon time events of 19:56 UT. The M 4.7 in northern
California occurred at the end of solar flare 6400. These flares probably
promoted the occurrence of these event in northern California today.
...
The area had been under a moderate seismic watch (in the previous issue of
this summary) due to historical analysis of regional seismicity following
large earthquakes in Taiwan as:
"The series of earthquakes in the San Francisco Bay area of California on the
northern Calaveras fault appears to have come to a temporary halt following
the earthquake in Taiwan. The distance between these two areas is 96 degrees
and is not nodal. There has been a tendency for larger quakes of M>=4.5 to
occur about 5 days after major events in Taiwan. This occurred in 1906 when
an M 7.2 in Taiwan was followed by the M 8.1 in San Francisco on April 18, 1906.
Earthquake of M>=5.0 in the San Francisco Bay area also occurred in the first 10 days after major
events in Taiwan in March, and January, 1986; September, 1935; August, 1989.
If this lull in Central California is precursory a moderate quake may
occur in this area in the next 5-10 days. A moderate watch for the area
is now in effect through January 7, 2026. Southern California and Baja California
are closer to 103 degrees from Taiwan. Even so, there is scant evidence
in the historical record that these areas are likely to see enhanced
seismicity at this time. A pair of quakes in the Los Angeles area of 2.7 and M 2.5
preceded the Taiwan quake by about 30 minutes today. A similar M 4.5
in Los Angeles followed an M 6.6 in Taiwan at the same location as today's
event a day later on May 24-25, 1994. The only other activity on record
of M>=4.5 associated with major earthquakes in Taiwan occurred in April, 1910
and September 4, 1935. This area is not under watch from the Taiwan earthquake at this time." (December 27-28, 2025)
The earthquake of M 4.7 in Northern California today was widely felt north
of Sacramento with V in California at Litchfield; IV in Susanville, Milford, Ravendale, Tahoe City, Standish, Janesville and III in Wendel and Cedarville.
The last earthquake in northern California within about 200 km of today's
epicenter with M>=4.7 occurred as an M 5.0 about 100 km northwest of this on September 8, 2023.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter of larger magnitude
was an M 5.5 on May 11, 2023 (and an M 5.2 aftershock hours later). At the time this summary noted:
"The largest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.0 in northern California.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Northern California near Cassel, Burney, Fall River Mills, McArthur, IV in Montgomery Creek, Old STation, Whitmore, Oak Run, McCloud, and with lesser intensity in Southern California and Oregon.
An aftershock of M 4.3 was reported with intensity V in McArthur, IV in Redding; III in Milford and I in Santa Rosa, California.
This activity occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by
tidal stresses which maximize near this hour. The last earthquake in Northern
California of M>=5 within about 100 km of today's epicenter occurred more than
35 years ago. An M 5.5 and 5.2 occurred about 100 km southeast of today's epicenter
on May 11 and 12, 2023. Other regional seismicity at about 100 km from
today's epicenter occurred with M 5.7 about 100 km to the southeast on May 24, 2013
and as an M 5.4 on November 26, 1998." (September 8, 2023)
Today's epicenter in northern California is located near the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Taiwan; at 144 degrees from a much-strengthened TC Grant; the third node
(120 degrees) from newly formed TC Hayley; and 103 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines and the seventh node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka and the north geomagnetic pole and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources." (December 29, 2025)
O: 29DEC2025 00:41:14 40.5N 120.7W MW=4.7 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
An earthquake of M 3.7-4.6 occurred today in the Tennant Creek area of northern
Australia. It was probably felt lightly in the epicentral area.
The last earthquake of M>=4.6 within about 300 km of this epicenter in Australia
was an M 5.4 on August 1, 2019. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderate earthquake of M 5.4 hit the northern Territory, Australia today.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 5.4 in Northern Territory, Australia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Tennant Creek, Northern Territory, Australia.
This continues activity which has included an M 6.6 off western Australia in
mid-July. This is the strongest earthquake in the Tennant Creek area of northern
Territory in at least 30 years. This earthquake is located at 105 degrees from the
M 7.1 in Central California of July 6 and was probably promoted by energy from that source.
The antipode is in the northern Mid-Atlantic at 20N 45W where a possible event could occur." (August 1, 2019)
and earlier when an M 4.4 occurred on March 12, 2021 as:
"An unusual earthquake also hit off the east coast of northeastern Australia today.
NEIC reported this earthquake of M 4.4 in Northern Territory, Australia was felt with intensity II-III in the area(s) of Northern Territory, Australia at Tennant Creek.
It also occurred near local solar midnight and was probably promoted by
strong tidal stresses which maximize near this hour. Powerful Tropical Cyclone
Niran passed near this epicenter in early March and may have helped promote
seismicity near this epicenter. Stronger earthquakes within about 200 km
of today's epicenter in the past 30 years occurred on February 11, 2004 (M 4.9, 5.0)
and July 15, 1992 (M 5.2) and June 13, 1992 (M 5.0)." (March 12, 2021).
Today's event in northern Australia occurred as Tropical Cyclone Hayley was approaching this epicenter
as previously reported in this summary.
"Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 16N 58W - is in the area of the Leeward Islands where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow." (December 29-30, 2025)
The current parameters for TC Hayley are:
TC HAYLEY 2025-12-31 00:00 UT 20.5S 132.0E 110 kts Northern Australia
Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region of northern and western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 20N 48W - is in the area east of the Leeward Islands where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow in northern Australia.
This earthquake in northern Australia occurred within minutes of local solar noon
at a latitude which was nearly sub-solar today (December 30, 2025 21 degrees South
Latitude). This means this epicenter was at sub-solar conditions at the time
of this earthquake, conditions which have been linked to enhanced seismicity
as reported in previous issues of this summary.
This epicenter is located at 2-3 degrees from the current eye of Tropical Cyclone
Hayley; at 105 degrees from the North Geomagnetic Pole and Yukon, Canada; at the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Honshu and at the eighth node (45 degrees) from Taiwan and may have been
promoted by constructive interference of energy associated with those sources.
O: 31DEC2025 03:35:57 20.5S 134.4E ML=3.7 EMSC NORTHERN TERRITORY, AUSTRALIA
O: 31DEC2025 03:35:57 20.5S 134.4E ML=4.6 NEIC TENNANT CREEK, AUSTRALIA
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.3 near Boyuibe, Bolivia.
It was not reported felt in this epicentral area as it occurred at a deep focal depth (547 km).
Like the earthquake in northern Australia (see above) this epicenter is at
a latitude which is sub-solar on this day of the year while near local solar noon and may been promoted
by efficient tidal and/or geomagnetic stresses at this time.
This event is near the antipode of the M 7.1 in Taiwan of December 27, 2025
and may have been promoted by antipodal focused energy from that source.
A deep focus M 5.6 south of this preceded the Taiwan earthquake and was noted in
this summary as:
"Today's earthquake in Taiwan occurred near the antipode of an M 5.6 earthquake at a
deep focus in Argentins earlier in the day and may have been promoted
by energy from that source. Despite the near-antipodal nature of these two
earthquake historical evidence does not support antipodal triggering in this case." (December 27, 2025)
The last earthquake within about 300 km of this epicenter in Bolivia with M>=5.3
occurred on April 2, 2018 with M 6.8. At the time this summary noted:
T"he earthquake in Bolivia had its hypocenter at a deep focus of 500-600 km. As such
it was widely felt with moderate to light intensity through a wide swath of
northern South America up to 1900 km from the epicenter but no damage was reported.
NEIC noted intensity up to V in Asuncion, Paraguay but generally intensities were
II-III. These were reported from Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, Brazil, and Argentina.
CSN reported this earthquake was felt with intensity V Chile in Huara; III Cuya, Camina, La Tirana, Tocopilla, II Arica, Alto Hospicio, Iquique, Maria Elena, Felt in Arica, Parinacota, Tarapaca and Antofagasta, Chile.
The mainshock was followed by an M 3.7 in the area of Peru where it was reported
felt in Arequipa with intensity III. The last earthquake in Bolivia within
about 300 km of this epicenter with M>=6.8 occurred more than 45 years ago.
Two quakes have been recorded in this area in recent history, an M 6.8 on October 25, 1973
and events of M 6.9 and 7.0 on September 23, 1887 and March 23, 1899." (April 2, 2018)
This epicenter is located at 174 degrees (near antipodal) from Taiwan and at 102 degrees
from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 30DEC2025 20:26:05 20.7S 63.2W MW=5.3 EMSC CHUQUISACA, BOLIVIA
The strongest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.1 in southeastern Alaska
along the border with Yukon Territory, Canada. NEIC reported this event
was felt with intensity III in Yukon, Canada at Whitehorse and Haines Junction with II.
It follows a slow increase in regional seismicity over the past two days
as reported in the previous issue of this summary:
"The strongest earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today were a series about 200 km outside the
aftershock zone southeast of the M 7.0 in the Yukon, Canada event of December 6, 2025.
These events of M 3.5 and 3.6 follow an M 4.6 in the region yesterday. That event
is the strongest aftershock of the December 6 mainshock since an M 4.7 on December
10, 2025. Recent increases in solar activity may indicate activation of the
area with the possibility of a further event of M>=5 in the next couple of
days. Today's earthquakes were probably felt with intensity up to III in the Elfin Cove area of
Alaska as per NEIC data.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Hokkaido
and may have been promoted by energy from that source." (December 29-30, 2025)
Today's event of M 5.0 is located at 105 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Hayley
and may have been promoted by energy from that source as well as from Honshu, Japan.
O: 30DEC2025 10:17:19 60.4N 139.6W MW=5.0 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANA
O: 30DEC2025 11:05:26 60.4N 139.5W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 30DEC2025 12:31:03 60.5N 139.9W ML=3.4 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
O: 30DEC2025 22:25:44 60.5N 140.0W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.5 in Southern Alaska was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Southern Alaska in Homer.
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Syria was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Syria in Latakia, 'Ayn al Bayda, Manbij, and in Pegeia, Paphos, Cyprus.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Taiwan and at 104
degrees from Tropical Cyclone Hayley and may have been promoted by energy from
those sources.
O: 30DEC2025 15:05:32 35.6N 35.4E MB=4.3 EMSC NEAR THE COAST OF SYRIA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE HAYLEY (10S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC HAYLEY 2025-12-31 00:00 UT 20.5S 132.0E 110 kts Northern Australia
Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region of northern and western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 20N 48W - is in the northern mid-Atlantic Ridge where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow in northern Australia.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2025-12-31 00:00 UT 15.0S 73.1E 130 kts South Indian Ocean
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region of the south Indian Ocean winds up to 130 kts as a suddenly forming major storm. The antipode is at 15N 107W - is southeast of Jalisco, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity is possible.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of December 30, 2025. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6630 0014 0027 0033 C4.9 (December 30, 2025) 4.1E-03
6650 0058 0103 0105 C2.9 (December 30, 2025) 1.4E-03
6660 0638 0645 0647 C5.0 (December 30, 2025) 2.9E-03
Colima, Mexico M 3.2 06:38 UT
6670 0836 0843 0849 C4.6 (December 30, 2025) 3.6E-03
Nevada M 2.4 08:40 UT
Oaxaca M 4.1 08:42 UT
Ryukyu Is. M .1 08:48 UT
6690 1416 1423 1432 C2.2 (December 30, 2025) 2.2E-03
Kuril Is M 4.3 14:29 UT
6710 1551 1555 1600 C4.9 (December 30, 2025) 2.4E-03
6720 1742 1803 1816 C4.1 (December 30, 2025) 6.7E-03
6730 2243 2248 2253 C2.2 (December 30, 2025) 1.4E-03
6740 2336 2340 2342 C2.8 (December 30, 2025) 1.1E-03
Honshu M 4.8 23:51 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: active December 31, 2025 and January 2, 2026 with minor storms January 1, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 60% X-class: 25% proton storm: 15%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 8 13 5 15:00 4 141 182
A very strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 30, 2025 at 01:21:41 UT (#251230A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>14.67 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
December 30, 2025
Notable earthquakes and events:
It was another quiet day in global seismicity since last report. The only earthquake
in the world of M>5.1 was an M 5.5 in the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. This is about 500 km northeast
of the M 6.6-7.0 Taiwan earthquake of December 27 and may have been promoted by regional stress redistribution
following that event. NEIC reported it was felt in the Ryukyu Islands in Okinawa at Naha, and III in Ishikawa, Okinawa, Yomitan and II in Tomigusuku with III also reported in Naze, Kagoshima.
No damage, tsunami nor casualties were expected with this remote quake.
The last earthquake in the Ryukyu Islands within about 200 km of this
epicenter with M>=5.5 occurred as an M 5.9 on May 1, 2023 and before that
on December 13, 2022 with M 5.7. At the time this summary noted:
"A moderately strong M 5.9 earthquake in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan occurred today
after a series of moderate foreshocks including those of M 5.3, 5.2 and 5.0. The
foreshocks began with an M 5.3 on April 27 and continued through April 29, 2023. Today's event was reported by NEIC to have
been felt with intensity II-II in Okinawa at Gushikawa, Okinawa, Chatan, Irasoe, Naha and Yomitan.
The last earthquake of M>=5.9 in the Okinawa area of the Ryukyu Islands within
about 200 km of today's epicenter was an M 6.0 on July 26, 2017 and also on September 26, 2016." (May 1, 2023)
Today's epicenter is at the fourth node (90 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic Pole
and at the sixth node (60 degrees)from the North Geomagnetic Pole and the eighth
node (45 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Hayley and may have been promoted by energy
from these sources.
O: 30DEC2025 08:12:24 27.5N 128.7E MW=5.5 EMSC RYUKYU ISLANDS, JAPAN
The strongest earthquakes in the U.S. or Canada today were a series about 200 km outside the
aftershock zone southeast of the M 7.0 in the Yukon, Canada event of December 6, 2025.
These events of M 3.5 and 3.6 follow an M 4.6 in the region yesterday. That event
is the strongest aftershock of the December 6 mainshock since an M 4.7 on December
10, 2025. Recent increases in solar activity may indicate activation of the
area with the possibility of a further event of M>=5 in the next couple of
days. Today's earthquakes were probably felt with intensity up to III in the Elfin Cove area of
Alaska as per NEIC data.
These epicenters are at the seventh node (52 degrees) from Hokkaido
and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 28DEC2025 18:50:49 60.5N 139.8W MB=4.6 EMSC SOUTHERN YUKON TERRITORY, CANA
O: 30DEC2025 06:00:34 58.3N 136.8W ML=3.5 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
O: 30DEC2025 03:33:25 58.4N 137.3W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
O: 29DEC2025 08:05:17 59.5N 136.8W ML=3.2 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
O: 30DEC2025 05:23:46 58.3N 136.9W ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.5 in eastern Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of eastern Los Angeles, California in Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear City.
O: 30DEC2025 05:23:50 34.0N 116.8W ML=2.1 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 29DEC2025 13:26:11 34.3N 117.1W ML=2.5 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
An earthquake of M 2.3 was also felt today in Los Angeles California. EMSC reported strong shaking in California at Ladera Heights, Culver City, Marina del Rey, View Park-Windsor Hills, Century City, North Hollywood.
NEIC reported it was felt widely in Los Angeles with intensity III in Inglewood, Los Angeles, Playa del Rey, Culver City, Venice, El Segundo, and II in Santa Monica, Aliso Viejo.
O: 29DEC2025 15:57:32 34.0N 118.4W ML=2.3 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
The most unusual earthquake today was an M 4.6 in the area of Ikungi, Tanzania.
It was not reported felt in this area near Dodoma. This earthquake occurred
within minutes of local solar noon near the peak of one of the largest
solar flares of the day (#6490) and may have been promoted by energy from that
flare. Data for that flare from SWPC follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6490 0943 0947 0952 C3.8 (December 29, 2025) 1.8E-03
Tanzania M 4.6 09:51 UT
The last earthquake of M>=4.6 in Tanzania within about 200 km of today's
epicenter occurred as an M 4.8 on August 8, 2025. The last of significantly
larger magnitude in the area was an M 5.5 on August 8, 2023. At the time
this summary noted:
"The most unusual earthquake in the world today was an M 5.5 in Tanzania. NEIC reported this event was felt with intensity IV in Mombasa, Kenya and in Tanzania at Dodoma and Tabora.
An M 4.8 aftershock was felt with intensity II in Magugu, Manyara, Tanzania.
A foreshock of M 4.5 occurred on August 2, 2023 about 100 km north of today's
epicenter. The last earthquake of M>=5.5 in the region of Tanzania within about 300 km
of this epicenter occurred on November 4, 2002, the only such event in this
region in the past 35 years. Three days ago an M 4.9 hit the Lake Tanganyika area west of today's epicenter.
At the time this summary noted:
"An unusual quake of M 4.9 occurred today in the region of Tanzania. NEIC reported maximum intensity IV in Gitega, Burundi and Kigali Ville de Kigali, Rwanda and III in Kigoma, Tanzania at Kigoma and Kasulu.
The only earthquake of M>4.9 in Tanzania or Lake Tanganyika areas within about
250 km of this epicenter occurred with M 5.0 about 250 km northwest of today's
epicenter. Today's event occurred within minutes of local solar midnight
and may have been promoted by high tidal stresses which maximize near this
hour." (August 4, 2023, August 8, 2023)
This epicenter is located at the fourth node (90 degrees) from the South Geomagnetic
Pole and also from Taiwan and Mindanao and was probably promoted by
constructive interference of energy from those sources.
O: 29DEC2025 09:51:42 5.3S 35.3E MB=4.6 EMSC TANZANIA
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 Quepos where it woke residents.
O: 30DEC2025 03:14:30 9.4N 84.3W ML=4.0 EMSC COSTA RICA
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE HAYLEY (10S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC HAYLEY 2025-12-30 00:00 UT 16.5S 122.0E 110 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone Hayley (10S) continued today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 110 kts. It could continue to promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 16N 58W - is in the area of the Leeward Islands where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2025-12-30 00:00 UT 14.3S 78.3E 135 kts South of India
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of India winds up to 135 kts as a suddenly forming major storm. The antipode is at 15N 102W - is east of Central America and south of Guerrero, Mexico where enhanced antipodal activity is possible.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of December 29, 2025. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6420 0119 0128 0132 C4.8 (December 29, 2025) 2.7E-03
6430 0258 0305 0310 C8.9 (December 29, 2025) 4.1E-03
Coast No. California M 3.3 03:01 UT
6450 0634 0651 0656 M1.0 (December 29, 2025) 7.6E-03
Western Mediterranean Sea M 3.6 06:39 UT
Nicaragua M 3.6 06:33 UT
6460 0723 0731 0736 C2.6 (December 29, 2025) 2.1E-03
Chiapas M 4.1 07:28 UT
6470 0757 0803 0807 C2.6 (December 29, 2025) 2.4E-03
6480 0807 0817 0828 C4.3 (December 29, 2025) 4.7E-03
Guerrero M 3.4 08:08 UT
6490 0943 0947 0952 C3.8 (December 29, 2025) 1.8E-03
Tanzania M 4.6 09:51 UT
6500 1210 1219 1224 C2.7 (December 29, 2025) 2.1E-03
6510 1310 1314 1318 C3.0 (December 29, 2025) 1.5E-03
Myanmar M 3.1 13:10 UT
6560 1630 1635 1642 C3.3 (December 29, 2025) 2.5E-03
Mid-Indian Ridge M 4.9 16:39 UT
6570 1803 1811 1816 C3.5 (December 29, 2025) 3.1E-03
6600 1816 1827 1832 C3.3 (December 29, 2025) 3.4E-03
San Francisco M 2.2 18:32 UT
6590 2036 2040 2043 C6.4 (December 29, 2025) 2.8E-03
Guerrero M 3.5 20:35 UT
N Island, New Zealand M 3.5 20:36 UT
Sumatra M 2.6 20:36 UT
Halmahera M 3.7 20:41 UT
6610 2214 2222 2226 C3.3 (December 29, 2025) 2.9E-03
Guerrero M 3.5 22:22 UT
6640 2226 2230 2237 C3.7 (December 29, 2025) 2.8E-03
Kuril Is. M 4.5 22:47 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: unsettled December 30, 2025 active December 31 with minor storms January 1, 2026. Solar M-flare chance: 55% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 9 15 9 13:00 5 138 196
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacan, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
December 29, 2025
Notable earthquakes and events:
It was a relatively quiet day in global seismicity with no events of M>5
recorded. The lull in seismicity in the region of northern California came to an
end today. This began when an M 2.4 occurred in the San Francisco Bay,
California occurred at 15:16 UT but continued with an M 2.8 and M 2.3
within minutes of local solar noon, again in the San Francisco Bay area.
But the main event in the series was an M 4.7 northeast of San Francisco.
These earthquakes were associated with a series of moderate C- to moderate
M-class solar flares. For example the M 2.8 in San Francisco occurred
especially the local noon time events of 19:56 UT. The M 4.7 in northern
California occurred at the end of solar flare 6400. These flares probably
promoted the occurrence of these event in northern California today.
Data from SWPC for these flares follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6340 1502 1509 1516 C2.9 (December 28, 2025) 2.4E-03
San Francisco M 2.4 15:16 UT
6350 1917 2008 2040 C4.0 (December 28, 2025) 1.6E-02
San Francisco M 2.2 20:50 M 2.8 19:56 M 2.3 20:05 UT
6400 2357 0002 0007 M2.2 (December 28, 2025) 9.7E-03
Northern California M 4.7 00:41 UT
Nicaragua M 3.1 00:02 UT
The area had been under a moderate seismic watch (in the previous issue of
this summary) due to historical analysis of regional seismicity following
large earthquakes in Taiwan as:
"The series of earthquakes in the San Francisco Bay area of California on the
northern Calaveras fault appears to have come to a temporary halt following
the earthquake in Taiwan. The distance between these two areas is 96 degrees
and is not nodal. There has been a tendency for larger quakes of M>=4.5 to
occur about 5 days after major events in Taiwan. This occurred in 1906 when
an M 7.2 in Taiwan was followed by the M 8.1 in San Francisco on April 18, 1906.
Earthquake of M>=5.0 in the San Francisco Bay area also occurred in the first 10 days after major
events in Taiwan in March, and January, 1986; September, 1935; August, 1989.
If this lull in Central California is precursory a moderate quake may
occur in this area in the next 5-10 days. A moderate watch for the area
is now in effect through January 7, 2026. Southern California and Baja California
are closer to 103 degrees from Taiwan. Even so, there is scant evidence
in the historical record that these areas are likely to see enhanced
seismicity at this time. A pair of quakes in the Los Angeles area of 2.7 and M 2.5
preceded the Taiwan quake by about 30 minutes today. A similar M 4.5
in Los Angeles followed an M 6.6 in Taiwan at the same location as today's
event a day later on May 24-25, 1994. The only other activity on record
of M>=4.5 associated with major earthquakes in Taiwan occurred in April, 1910
and September 4, 1935. This area is not under watch from the Taiwan earthquake at this time." (December 27-28, 2025)
The earthquake of M 4.7 in Northern California today was widely felt north
of Sacramento with V in California at Litchfield; IV in Susanville, Milford, Ravendale, Tahoe City, Standish, Janesville and III in Wendel and Cedarville.
The last earthquake in northern California within about 200 km of today's
epicenter with M>=4.7 occurred as an M 5.0 about 100 km northwest of this on September 8, 2023.
The last earthquake within about 100 km of this epicenter of larger magnitude
was an M 5.5 on May 11, 2023 (and an M 5.2 aftershock hours later). At the time this summary noted:
"The largest earthquake in the U.S. or Canada today was an M 5.0 in northern California.
NEIC reported it was felt with intensity V in Northern California near Cassel, Burney, Fall River Mills, McArthur, IV in Montgomery Creek, Old STation, Whitmore, Oak Run, McCloud, and with lesser intensity in Southern California and Oregon.
An aftershock of M 4.3 was reported with intensity V in McArthur, IV in Redding; III in Milford and I in Santa Rosa, California.
This activity occurred near local solar noon and may have been promoted by
tidal stresses which maximize near this hour. The last earthquake in Northern
California of M>=5 within about 100 km of today's epicenter occurred more than
35 years ago. An M 5.5 and 5.2 occurred about 100 km southeast of today's epicenter
on May 11 and 12, 2023. Other regional seismicity at about 100 km from
today's epicenter occurred with M 5.7 about 100 km to the southeast on May 24, 2013
and as an M 5.4 on November 26, 1998." (September 8, 2023)
Today's epicenter in northern California is located near the fourth node (90 degrees)
from Taiwan; at 144 degrees from a much-strengthened TC Grant; the third node
(120 degrees) from newly formed TC Hayley; and 103 degrees from Mindanao, Philippines and the seventh node (52 degrees) from Kamchatka and the north geomagnetic pole and
may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 29DEC2025 00:41:14 40.5N 120.7W MW=4.7 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 29DEC2025 00:48:27 40.5N 120.6W MD=2.3 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 29DEC2025 01:16:06 40.5N 120.7W MD=2.2 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
O: 29DEC2025 06:08:48 40.5N 120.7W MD=2.3 EMSC NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported the earthquake of M 2.8 east of San Francisco was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of east of San Francisco with III in San Ramon and II in Walnut Creek, Danville and Pleasanton.
The earlier M 2.6 near San Ramon was reported by NEIC with intensity III in Danville, San Ramon and II in Pleasanton, San Francisco, Dublin.
These epicenters are at the third node (120 degrees) from Tropical Cyclone Hayley;
at 149 degrees from Tropical Cyclone Grant, the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hokkaido; the seventh node from Kamchatka and
Central Philippines and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 28DEC2025 13:18:58 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.6 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 28DEC2025 15:16:40 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.4 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 28DEC2025 19:56:43 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.8 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 28DEC2025 20:05:52 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.3 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 28DEC2025 20:50:21 37.8N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 29DEC2025 05:45:34 37.8N 122.0W MD=2.1 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
O: 29DEC2025 00:52:18 37.7N 121.9W MD=2.2 EMSC SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIF.
P: 27DEC2025 178181 37.7N 121.9W 2.5-4.8 AAAAA Central California
A series of light earthquakes occurred within minutes of each other today
near local solar noon in the eastern U.S. These occurred as an M 3.2 in
eastern Kentucky followed by an M 2.1 five minutes later near West Warrenton,
Georgia and preceded by an M 2.3 in Missouri on the New Madrid Fault line.
This event in Missouri was reported felt in southeastern Missouri at Stelle with intensity III
and with II in Missouri at Hornersville, Caruthersville, Sikeston, Clarkton and Dexter and in
Kentucky with II in Mayfield and Murray. NEIC reported these earthquakes near local
solar noon The M 4.2 in Kentucky was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Kentucky with III in Lancaster, Paint Lick, Nicholasville, Wellington, Richmond, Stanford, Berea, Danville, and Crab Orchard and in Indiana at Madison.
This earthquake occurred within minutes of local solar noon and may have
been promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects.
These epicenters are near 144 degrees from the south geomagnetic pole and Tropical Cyclones Grant and Hayley
and at the fourth node from Honshu, Japan and at the fifth node from Kamchatka
and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
The event in Georgia is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the north geomagnetic
pole and near the third node (120 degrees) from Taiwan and an the eighth node
(45 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy from
those sources.
The epicenter in Missouri is also at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido;
the fifth node from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 28DEC2025 17:47:10 37.7N 84.4W ML=3.2 EMSC EASTERN KENTUCKY
O: 28DEC2025 17:52:08 33.3N 82.7W ML=2.1 EMSC GEORGIA
O: 28DEC2025 17:10:08 36.1N 89.7W ML=2.3 EMSC MISSOURI
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 5.0 in Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Peru with IV in Chimbote, Ancash and II in Trujillo La Libertad.
This epicenter is located at 102-103 degrees from both the north and south
geomagnetic poles and near 146 degrees from Tropical Cyclones Grant and Hayley and
is an aftershock of the M 6.2 that hit the area yesterday. It may have been promoted by constructive interference from
energy associated with those sources.
O: 28DEC2025 23:19:55 9.0S 79.0W MB=5.0 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NORTHERN PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.6 east of Los Angeles, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of east of Los Angeles, California with III in San Bernardino, II in Lake Arrowhead, Running Springs, Pomona, Cedar Glen, Highland, Crestline.
O: 28DEC2025 15:44:30 34.3N 117.1W ML=2.6 EMSC SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.3 in Mammoth Lakes, California was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Mammoth Lakes, California with II in Glenbrook, Nevada.
This epicenter is located at the fifth node from Hokkaido and 104 degrees
from Mindanao and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 28DEC2025 19:02:07 37.9N 118.7W ML=3.2 EMSC CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Central Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Peru with II in Santa Maria, Lima and Vista Alegre, Ica.
This epicenter is at 145-146 degrees from Tropical Cyclones, Grant and Hayley; at the third node (120 degrees) from Kamchatka and at the fourth node (90 degrees) from Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 28DEC2025 13:09:38 13.5S 77.2W MB=4.6 EMSC OFF COAST OF CENTRAL PERU
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE HAYLEY (10S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC HAYLEY 2025-12-29 00:00 UT 15.7S 120.0E 90 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone 10S formed today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 45 kts. It could continue promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 12N 61W - is in the area north of Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2025-12-29 00:00 UT 13.7S 80.5E 145 kts South of India
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of India winds up to 145 kts as a suddenly forming major storm. It could continue to excite regional seismicity while south of Sumatra. The antipode is at 12N 93W - is east of Central America where enhanced antipodal activity is possible, but unlikely as this storm moves to the west. It will be antipodal to El Salvador and Costa Rica off the west coast of Central America around December 27, the most likely time for a significant regional earthquake.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of December 28, 2025. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6290 0535 0539 0557 C2.6 (December 28, 2025) 4.0E-03
6300 0557 0608 0610 C3.3 (December 28, 2025) 2.7E-03
6310 0722 0728 0735 C4.0 (December 28, 2025) 2.6E-03
6320 0809 0820 0834 C3.2 (December 28, 2025) 4.5E-03
Fiji M 4.5 08:16 UT
Kuril Is. M 4.3 08:11 UT
Fiji M 4.8 08:06 UT
6330 1157 1208 1221 C2.8 (December 28, 2025) 3.7E-03
6340 1502 1509 1516 C2.9 (December 28, 2025) 2.4E-03
San Francisco M 2.4 15:16 UT
6350 1917 2008 2040 C4.0 (December 28, 2025) 1.6E-02
San Francisco M 2.2 20:50 M 2.8 19:56 M 2.3 20:05 UT
6360 2103 2113 2123 M1.3 (December 28, 2025) 9.2E-03
6370 2148 2153 2156 C6.8 (December 28, 2025) 2.8E-03
6380 2201 2239 2254 M4.2 (December 28, 2025) 7.5E-02
Kyushu M 4.0 22:35 UT
6400 2357 0002 0007 M2.2 (December 28, 2025) 9.7E-03
Northern California M 4.7 00:41 UT
Nicaragua M 3.1 00:02 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet December 29-31. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 10% proton storm: 10%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 9 13 7 13:00 4 143 188
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacn, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
December 28, 2025
Notable earthquakes and events:
A strong M 6.6-7.0 earthquake occurred today in Northern Taiwan. EMSC reported
very strong shaking in Taiwan in Yilan, Taipei, Banqiao, Taoyuan, Hualien City, Hsinchu, Zhubei, Taichung, Jiayi Shi, Ishigaki, Kaohsiung, and in China in Xiamen, Singbin, Guoxiang, and Aotoucun.
NEIC reported intensity V in Taipei at Yungho and Sanchung and in Taoyuan and IV in Taichung and Kaohsiung.
Initial reports from CWB (Central Weather Bureau of Taiwan) gave this earthquake M 7.0.
CWB reported it was felt with intensity IV in Taiwan at Taipei, Hualien, Keelung City, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli, Changhua, Yunlin, Taitung, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Lianjiang, Pengu and II in Kinmen County, Taiwan.
Initial reports did not report extensive damage but moderate damage would be
expected with this event. Loss of electricity, gas and water with minor damage to
buildings was reported in Yilan. Although high wave warning was issued for areas of Japan, no major
tsunami was expected nor observed. Some loss of property and a few injuries were
reported on the internet. High Rise building shook in Taipei, the capitol.
There were no immediate deaths or major injuries reported. The earthquake occurred near local solar midnight on
a weekend in the Christmas/New Year's season so many were out celebrating
and dining even at this late hour.
This earthquake follows an M 6.1 in Taiwan near the same epicenter which occurred
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. At the time this summary noted:
"A major M 7.4 earthquake damaged much of the Island of Taiwan today. International Press reports indicated that this event and several
strong aftershocks killed at least 7 while injuring more than 700. The quake
occurred about 20 km south of Hualien and damaged and toppled buildings while
causing many damaging landslides. It is the strongest earthquake to hit
Taiwan in at least 25 years - since September 20, 1999 (M 7.7) - the strongest
event in Taiwan in the past 35 years. Major earthquakes have most recently
hit with M>=7.5 in Taiwan on November 14, 1986 (M 7.8); July 24, 1978 (M 8.0); April 24, 1972 (M 7.7) and January 25, 1972 (M 7.7)." (April 2, 2024)
Today's event in Taiwan may have also been promoted by a moderate solar
flare which began about the same time as the flare. This C4.9 flare
is the strongest in several days. Preliminary data on this flare from SWPC
follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 1415 1420 1435 C2.4 (December 27, 2025) 2.4E-03 *
XXXX 0945 1021 1140 C4.9 (December 24, 2025) 1.4E-02 *
Taiwan M 6.0 09:47 UT ... " (December 24, 2025)
Today's earthquake in Taiwan occurred near the antipode of an M 5.6 earthquake at a
deep focus in Argentins earlier in the day and may have been promoted
by energy from that source. Despite the near-antipodal nature of these two
earthquake historical evidence does not support antipodal triggering in this case.
The last earthquake within about 200 km of this epicenter in Argentina with M>=5.6
occurred as an M 5.7 on October 2, 2025. At the time this summary noted:
"The strongest earthquake of the day was an M 5.7 in eastern Argentina near the border with Paraguay.
NEIC reported this event was probably felt lightly in the area of Hoyo, Argentina.
It occurred at a deep focus of 571 km and would not have been felt strongly
on the surface. The last earthquake at deep focus within about 200 km of this
epicenter with M>=5.7 occurred as an M 6.2 on August 23, 2023 following a series
of such events in 2023 after an M 6.8 on January 20, 2023. A series of
events of M>6 also occurred near this epicenter in 2011 and 2012 following an M 7.0 on January 1, 2011.
...
This epicenter is located near the antipode of several recent
typhoons in the Hong Kong, China area and may have been promoted by energy
associated with those sources. It is also at the fourth node (90 degrees)
from the South Geomagnetic Pole and at the third node (120 degrees) from the
North Geomagnetic equator in the South American/Atlantic geomagnetic anomaly
zone. Geomagnetic stresses associated with the current strong geomagnetic
storm probably helped promote today's earthquake in Argentina." (October 2, 2025)
O: 27DEC2025 10:40:50 28.3S 63.2W MW=5.6 EMSC SANTIAGO DEL ESTERO, ARGENTINA
Today's event may also have been promoted by a c-class solar flare. Preliminary
data on this flare from SWPC is in the table above. Taiwan was also near
local solar noon when the M 5.8 flare occurred earlier on December 27
see discussion below).
This epicenter is located at 144 degrees from the Drake Passage and at
the fifth node (72 degrees) from the Yukon, Canada and may have been promoted by
constuctive interference of energy from those two sources. It is also located
at the sixth node (60 degrees) from the north Geomagnetic pole.
O: 27DEC2025 15:05:56 24.7N 122.1E mw=7.0 CWB TAIWAN REGION
O: 27DEC2025 15:05:56 24.7N 122.1E MW=6.6 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
O: 27DEC2025 11:47:35 24.5N 122.9E mb=4.5 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
O: 27DEC2025 16:45:42 24.6N 122.1E mb=4.5 EMSC TAIWAN REGION
"Far-field earthquake triggering is possible with earthquakes of M 7.5 or greater.
In the case of Taiwan, the most likely triggering zones - near 144 degrees and
103 degrees from Taiwan do not contain many areas of high seismicity and far-field
triggering is likely to be muted. Following is a listing of potential triggering
sites with this earthquake:
180 degrees: Brazil, Argentina,
144 degrees: Panama, Colombia, South Sandwich Islands, East Pacific Rise, eastern Caribbean, Venezuela
120 degrees: Western Mexico, Michoacan, Jalisco, SE U.S., Northern Mid-Atlantic,
103 degrees: Southern, Baja California, Utah, Nunuvat, Ontario, Quebec Canada, South Africa, Spain, Morocco, Portugal,
90 degrees: Northwest U.S., Italy, Mediterranean, East Africa Rift,
72 degrees: Tonga, Fiji, Kermadec Is. Turkey,
60 degrees: Iran, Fox Islands,
52 degrees: Rat, Andreanof Is, Pakistan" (April 3, 2024)
The series of earthquakes in the San Francisco Bay area of California on the
northern Calaveras fault appears to have come to a temporary halt following
the earthquake in Taiwan. The distance between these two areas is 96 degrees
and is not nodal. There has been a tendency for larger quakes of M>=4.5 to
occur about 5 days after major events in Taiwan. This occurred in 1906 when
an M 7.2 in Taiwan was followed by the M 8.1 in San Francisco on April 18, 1906.
Earthquake of M>=5.0 in the San Francisco Bay area also occurred in the first 10 days after major
events in Taiwan in March, and January, 1986; September, 1935; August, 1989.
If this lull in Central California is precursory a moderate quake may
occur in this area in the next 5-10 days. A moderate watch for the area
is now in effect through January 7, 2026. Southern California and Baja California
are closer to 103 degrees from Taiwan. Even so, there is scant evidence
in the historical record that these areas are likely to see enhanced
seismicity at this time. A pair of quakes in the Los angeles area of 2.7 and M 2.5
preceded the Taiwan quake by about 30 minutes today. A similar M 4.5
in Los Angeles followed an M 6.6 in Taiwan at the same location as today's
event a day later on May 24-25, 1994. The only other activity on record
of M>=4.5 associated with major earthquakes in Taiwan occurred in April, 1910
and September 4, 1935. This area is not under watch from the Taiwan earthquake at this time.
Seismic waves from the earthquake in Taiwan may have triggered an M 3.8 in northern
Yerington, Nevada minutes later. NEIC reported this far-field aftershock was
felt in Silver Springs, Nevada with III and in Yerington, Nevada with intensity II.
The Nevada quake occurred 14.5 minutes arger the evne in Taiwan. The p-wave from
Taiwan would have arrived seconds before the subsequent event in Nevada
at 96 degrees from Taiwan.
This epicenter is at the fifth node from Hokkaido Japan (72 degrees) and at 103 degrees from
Central Philippines and may have been promoted by energy from those two sources.
O: 27DEC2025 15:20:28 39.2N 119.1W mb=3.7 NEIC NEVADA
A strong M 6.2 earthquake was recorded today off the coast of northern Peru. NEIC reported
it was felt with intensity V in Casma, Ancash, Peru and IV in La Libertad at Huanchanco, Paijan, Trujillo, Pacasmayo; III in Santiago de Chuco and in Lima at Caleta de Carquin, and San Luis. It was also felt with light entensity in Peru at Eten, Lambayeque and Celendin, Cajamarca.
EMSC reported moderate shaking in Peru at Chimbote, La Esperanza, Cajamarca, Independencia, Lima, Jesus Maria, San Isidro, San Francisco De Borja, Santiago de Surco, Cieneguilla.
This earthquake occurr several hour before midnight local solar time. The last
earthquake in Peru within about 200 km of this epicenter with M>=6.2 occurred
as an M 6.3 on February 24, 2007. A major earthquake hit the region on February 21, 1996 with M 7.5.
This epicenter is located on the geomagnetic equator and may have been
promoted by tidal and/or geomagnetic effects. Today's event was off the coast
so hazards were minimal to local populations.
This epicenter is at the seventh node (52 degrees) from the Drake Passage
and at 102 degrees from the North Geomagnetic pole and may have been promoted by energy from those sources.
O: 28DEC2025 02:51:49 9.0S 79.0W MW=6.2 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NORTHERN PERU
O: 28DEC2025 03:51:28 9.0S 79.2W ML=4.1 EMSC NEAR COAST OF NORTHERN PERU
O: 28DEC2025 05:17:22 9.1S 79.3W ML=4.3 EMSC OFF COAST OF NORTHERN PERU
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.7 in Central Luzon, Philippines was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Central Luzon, Philippines with IV in Nambalan and III inMasinloc, Cabangan and Manila.
EMSC reported gentle swaying in Philippines at Balibago and Quiapo.
O: 27DEC2025 18:26:23 15.4N 120.1E MB=4.7 EMSC LUZON, PHILIPPINES
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 3.3 in Hawaii was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Hawaii in Kailua Kona.
This epicenter is at 76 degrees from Taiwan and occurred as SSS-phase seismic waves
and body waves from Taiwan arrived in the area. It was probably promoted
by energy associated with those waves.
O: 27DEC2025 15:34:51 19.2N 155.5W ML=3.3 EMSC ISLAND OF HAWAII, HAWAII
NEIC reported earthquakes of M 2.5 and M 2.7 in western Los Angeles, California were felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of California at Valenci, Stevenson Ranch, Newhall, Santa Clarita, Castaic.
These epicenters are at the fifth node (72 degrees) from Hokkaido; the sixth node (60 degrees)
from Kamchatka and 105 degrees from the Drake Passage and Mindanao and at
146 degrees from TC Grant and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 27DEC2025 14:25:40 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.7 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALI
O: 27DEC2025 14:34:52 34.4N 118.6W ML=2.5 EMSC GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 2.9 in the Texas-Louisiana border was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of the Texas-Louisiana border in Pleasant Hill, Louisiana.
This epicenter is at the fouorth node (90 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan and at
the fith node from Kamchatka and may have been promoted by energy from those
sources.
O: 27DEC2025 12:47:51 31.9N 93.5W ML=2.9 EMSC LOUISIANA-TEXAS BORDER REGION
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.5 in Assam, India was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Assam, India in Itanagar Arunachal Pradesh, India.
EMSC reported light shaking in India at Raha, Guwahati, Dispur, Mushalpur, Nongpoh, Ziro and Shillong.
O: 27DEC2025 12:42:49 26.7N 92.3E MB=4.5 EMSC ASSAM, INDIA
EMSC reported an earthquake of M 4.3 in Puerto Rico was felt with intensity up to IV in the area(s) of Puerto Rico in Mayaguez.
O: 28DEC2025 04:59:06 18.1N 68.2W MD=4.3 EMSC MONA PASSAGE, DOMINICAN REPUBL
O: 27DEC2025 22:31:30 18.8N 68.5W MD=3.5 EMSC DOMINICAN REPUBLIC REGION
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE 10S
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC 10S 2025-12-28 00:00 UT 12.8S 119.5E 45 kts North of western Australia
Tropical Cyclone 10S formed today in the region north of western Australia winds up to 45 kts. It could continue promote enhanced seismicity in this area. The antipode is at 12N 61W - is in the area north of Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm makes landfall today and tomorrow.
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2025-12-28 00:00 UT 12.3S 86.7E 80 kts South of Sumatra
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of Sumatra winds up to 80 kts. It could continue to excite regional seismicity while south of Sumatra. The antipode is at 12N 93W - is east of Central America where enhanced antipodal activity is possible, but unlikely as this storm moves to the west. It will be antipodal to El Salvador and Costa Rica off the west coast of Central America around December 27, the most likely time for a significant regional earthquake.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of December 27, 2025. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
6060 0023 0032 0038 C4.8 (December 27, 2025) 3.0E-03
Sumatra M 5.9 00:23 UT
6110 0110 0150 0159 M5.1 (December 27, 2025) 3.8E-02 *
Sumatra M 5.8 01:10 UT
6130 0532 0539 0541 C3.7 (December 27, 2025) 1.7E-03
Fiji M 4.5 05:45 UT
Nevada M 2.1, 2.1 05:30, 05:34 UT
6150 0640 0647 0650 C2.8 (December 27, 2025) 1.6E-03
6170 0744 0758 0816 C4.5 (December 27, 2025) 7.2E-03
6190 1024 1029 1036 C2.5 (December 27, 2025) 1.9E-03
Tarapaca M 4.7 10:26 UT
Argentina M 5.6 10:40 UT
6210 1322 1329 1332 C3.7 (December 27, 2025) 2.0E-03
Oaxaca M 4.0 13:25 UT
6220 1411 1415 1419 C3.2 (December 27, 2025) 1.6E-03
Los Angeles CA M 2.7 14:25 UT M 2.5 14:34 UT
6230 1535 1550 1609 C2.9 (December 27, 2025) 5.4E-03
Taiwan M 6.6 15:06 UT
Hawaii M 3.3 15:35 UT
Tarapaca M 4.2 15:51 UT
6250 2143 2148 2155 C2.4 (December 27, 2025) 1.7E-03
Baja M 3.4 21:45 UT
Kermadec M 3.9 21:51 UT
6270 2214 2233 2250 C9.8 (December 27, 2025) 1.4E-02
Izu Is M 4.4 22:48 UT
Fiji M 4.8 22:11 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet December 28-30. Solar M-flare chance: 65% X-class: 20% proton storm: 15%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 7 7 5 13:00 3 130 178
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacn, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 3, 2025 at 16:46:36 UT (#251103B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.0 was assigned to this GRB.
December 27, 2025
Notable earthquakes and events:
The strongest earthquake in the world today was an M 5.7-5.9 south of Sumatra,
Indonesia. BMG reported it was felt in the Bengkulu area of Sumatra with intensity
III at Enggano and II in Kab Ogan komering, Muara Eniam, Lahat, Selatan, Lawang, Pagar Alam, Kaur, Seluma, Kepahiang, among others.
An M 5.8 aftershock followed in the same area and was felt with similar
intensities and locations according to BMG data.
These epicenters in Sumatra are north of the eye of Tropical Cyclone Grant on December 25,
the only tropical cyclone currently active in the world at this time. This was discussed
in the previous issue of this summary as:
"Elsewhere in the world today was a particularly quiet day in seismicity. No
events of M>=5 were recorded by NEIC or EMSC (BMG reported an M 5.0 in the Talaud
Islands - M 4.6 by EMSC)." (December 26, 2023)
"The most likely activity to help promoted seismicity at this time in Tropical
Cyclone Grant. This cyclone is currently south of Sumatra where it has been
proposed in previous issues of this summary that it may help trigger a moderate
to strong earthquake to the north as for example:
"Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of Sumatra winds up to 50 kts. It could continue to excite regional seismicity while south of Sumatra. The antipode is at 12N 78W - is in the area north of Colombia and Panama where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm moves to the west." (December 22-23, 2025)
or more recently in the last issue of this summary:
"Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of Sumatra winds up to 55 kts. It could continue to excite regional seismicity while south of Sumatra. The antipode is at 12N 84W - is in the area of eastern Costa Rica and east of Central America where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm moves to the west. It will be antipodal to El Salvador and Costa Rica around December 25-27, the most likely time for a significant regional earthquake." (December 25, 2025)
A foreshock of M 3.6 hit today's epicenter on December 25 and was noted
at the time in this summary as:
O: 25DEC2025 18:17:52 5.5S 102.4E ML=3.6 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
This epicenter is at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Hokkaido, Japan and may have been promoted by energy from that source." (December 25-26, 2025)
Today's mainshock appears to have been triggered by a moderate C4.8 solar
flare which began at the same time of this event of M 5.9 in Sumatra. The
strong aftershock of M 5.8 may have been promoted by an M5.2 class solar
flare which appears to have begun at the same time as that aftershock.
Preliminary data from SWPC on these events follow:
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0015 0030 0100 C4.8 (December 27, 2025) 4.8E-03 *
Sumatra M 5.9 00:22 UT
XXXX 0110 0200 0300 M5.2 (December 27, 2025) 5.1E-02 *
Sumatra M 5.8 01:10 UT
These events in Sumatra are located at the sixth node (60 degrees) from Hokkaido,
Japan and may have been promoted by energy from that source.
O: 27DEC2025 00:22:31 5.4S 102.3E ML=5.6 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 27DEC2025 00:22:32 5.6S 102.3E ML=5.9 BMG SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 27DEC2025 01:10:12 5.4S 102.3E ML=5.2 EMSC SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
O: 27DEC2025 01:10:12 5.6S 102.2E ML=5.8 BMG SOUTHERN SUMATRA, INDONESIA
NEIC reported an earthquake of M 4.6 in Lima, Peru was felt with intensity up to II-III in the area(s) of Lima, Peru in Lima, Santa Maria and San Luis.
EMSC reported moderate intensity in Oeru at Independencia, San Isidro, La Molina, Santiago de Surco.
O: 27DEC2025 00:35:20 11.0S 77.7W MB=4.6 EMSC NEAR COAST OF CENTRAL PERU
SEISMIC EFFECTS OF TROPICAL CYCLONES
TROPICAL CYCLONE GRANT (09S)
---- ------- ---------- -------- ----- ------ ------- ---------------
TC GRANT 2025-12-27 00:00 UT 11.8S 90.1E 75 kts South of Sumatra
Tropical Cyclone Grant (09S) continued today in the region south of Sumatra winds up to 75 kts. It could continue to excite regional seismicity while south of Sumatra. The antipode is at 12N 89W - is in the area of El Salvador and Nicaragua east of Central America where enhanced antipodal activity is possible as this storm moves to the west. It will be antipodal to El Salvador and Costa Rica off the west coast of Central America around December 27, the most likely time for a significant regional earthquake.
SOLAR FLARES
Following is the listing of C- M- or X-class flares from SWPC for the date
of December 26, 2025. These listings are published daily in this summary and at SWPC.
The main line gives details of flares. Subsequent lines identify some earthquakes
which are at or after the time of the flare and could have been affected by
immediate Solar Flare Effects (SFE). Some earthquakes occur at longitudes
which were at local solar noon or local solar midnight and may also have
been affected by SFE. These are not identified here.
SOLAR FLARES
Flare # START MAX END CLASS DATE Flux (Jm-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
XXXX 0022 0030 0100 C4.8 (December 27, 2025) 4.8E-03 *
Sumatra M 5.9 00:22 UT
XXXX 0110 0150 0300 M5.2 (December 27, 2025) 5.1E-02 *
Sumatra M 5.8 01:10 UT
5940 0305 0320 0326 C2.4 (December 26, 2025) 3.3E-03
Sumatra M 3.4, 3.0 03:07, 03:11 UT
5960 0326 0332 0335 C2.6 (December 26, 2025) 1.6E-03
Peru M 3.6 03:29 UT
5970 0725 0729 0731 C3.5 (December 26, 2025) 1.3E-03
Colombia M 3.6 07:30 UT
Loyalty Is. M 4.9 07:45 UT
5990 0810 0815 0840 C2.2 (December 26, 2025) 4.0E-03
Fiji M 5.6 08:36 UT
6000 0909 0914 0917 C6.9 (December 26, 2025) 2.5E-03
6010 1021 1028 1037 C4.0 (December 26, 2025) 3.7E-03
Oaxaca M 4.1 10:41 UT
Izu Is. M 4.8 10:44 UT
6050 1915 1923 1932 C2.7 (December 26, 2025) 2.6E-03
Fiji M 4.6 19:27 UT
Xinjiang, China M 4.2 19:44 UT
*indicates modified reading from NOAA GOES Graph
GEOMAGNETIC FIELD: quiet December 27-29. Solar M-flare chance: 45% X-class: 5% proton storm: 5%
AP Indicies (global, high, mid-latitude, time of max AP, Max AP, Sunspot Number, Radio Flux) 8 13 6 13:00 4 131 166
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 21, 2025 at 05:24:31 UT (#251221A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.6 was assigned to this GRB.
An earthquake of M 5.2 in New Britain accompanied this GRB at 05:25 UT.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 14, 2025 at 09:02:17 UT (#251214B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.09 was assigned to this GRB.
An M 3.7 in Oaxaca, Mexico coincided with the GRB at 09:03 UT as did an M 3.5 in Michoacn, Mexico at 09:04 UT and an M 2.6 in Yukon, Canada at 09:03 UT
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 5, 2025 at 23:39:47 UT (#251205A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=17.10 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on December 1, 2025 at 16:26:30 UT (#251201B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V=15.97 was assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 26, 2025 at 19:10:36 UT (#251126A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 12, 2025 at 21:28:56 UT (#251112A). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude was not assigned to this GRB.
A strong Gamma Ray Burst was recorded by SWIFT on November 3, 2025 at 16:46:36 UT (#251103B). A preliminary UVOT Magnitude of V>19.0 was assigned to this GRB.
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