M6.3 Earthquake 140 km ENE of Hihifo, Tonga — March 22, 2026
2026-03-22 15:30:36 UTC (2026-03-22)
Felt by 1 person across nearby locations. Maximum shaking intensity MMI 4.2 (moderate).
On March 22, 2026 at 15:30 UTC, a magnitude 6.3 shallow crustal earthquake struck 140 km ENE of Hihifo, Tonga, at a depth of 12.0 km and coordinates -15.3376°, -172.6520°. The earthquake was reported felt by 1 personacross nearby locations, with a maximum shaking intensity of Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) 4.2 (moderate). The USGS PAGER system issued a green alert level for this event, indicating no significant casualties or damage expected. This earthquake was detected by 20 seismic stations with excellent location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 611, making it a moderate-impact event. The nearest populated place is Nofoali`i (population 2,018).
The epicenter is located in Tonga, a region characterized by the Tonga-Kermadec subduction zone, where the Pacific Plate descends at up to 240 mm per year — the fastest plate convergence on Earth. The nearest mapped fault system is the Tonga Trench. View all earthquakes in Tonga.
Learn more: Magnitude scale · Aftershock sequences
Nearest Populated Places
Earthquake Details
-172.6520°E
Technical Information
Nearby Earthquakes (Last 7 Days)
Common Questions
How strong was the magnitude 6.3 earthquake near Hihifo, Tonga?
The magnitude 6.3 earthquake that struck 140 km ENE of Hihifo, Tonga on March 22, 2026 at 15:30 UTC had a depth of 12.0 km. It was felt by 1 person with maximum shaking intensity of MMI 4.2 (moderate). For context, this was a strong earthquake capable of causing significant damage.
Where did the earthquake occur?
The earthquake epicenter was located at -15.3376°, -172.6520°, which is 140 km ENE of Hihifo, Tonga. The nearest populated place is Nofoali`i (population 2,018). View all earthquakes in Tonga.
Were there aftershocks?
Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 6.3 earthquakes can continue for weeks to months and gradually diminish over time.
Has Tonga had earthquakes this big before?
The largest recorded earthquake in Tonga was the M8.1 Tonga Trench earthquake of June 26, 1917. Today's magnitude 6.3 event is significantly smaller than that historical record.
What should I do after an earthquake?
If you were in the affected area: check yourself and others for injuries, inspect your home for damage, and be prepared for aftershocks. For detailed guidance, see our earthquake safety guide and emergency planning resources.