4.9

M4.9 Earthquake 179 km SE of Kirakira, Solomon IslandsApril 15, 2026

2026-04-15 07:27:56 UTC (4 days ago)

Aftershock of the M5.0 mainshock.

On April 15, 2026 at 07:27 UTC, a magnitude 4.9 shallow crustal earthquake struck 179 km SE of Kirakira, Solomon Islands, at a depth of 10.0 km and coordinates -11.4964°, 163.1794°. This earthquake was detected by 51 seismic stations with excellent location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 369, placing it among routine seismic activity.

This earthquake is part of an ongoing aftershock sequence following the magnitude 5.0 mainshock that occurred 11 days ago 145 km SE of Kirakira, Solomon Islands. Since the mainshock, the USGS has recorded 2 aftershocks in this area. Aftershock activity is expected to continue for days to weeks as stresses on surrounding faults redistribute.

Map showing earthquake epicenter at -11.50°, 163.18°

Earthquake Details

Magnitude
4.9 mb
Depth
10.0 km
shallow crustal
Location
-11.4964°N
163.1794°E

Technical Information

Event ID
us6000sq66
Event Type
earthquake
Status
✓ Reviewed
Significance
369
Stations Used
51
Azimuthal Gap
54.0°
Min Station Distance
3.779°
RMS Residual
1.04 sec
Last Updated
2026-04-15 08:37:55 UTC

Common Questions

How strong was the magnitude 4.9 earthquake near Kirakira, Solomon Islands?

The magnitude 4.9 earthquake that struck 179 km SE of Kirakira, Solomon Islands on April 15, 2026 at 07:27 UTC had a depth of 10.0 km. For context, this was a light earthquake commonly felt near the epicenter.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The earthquake epicenter was located at -11.4964°, 163.1794°, which is 179 km SE of Kirakira, Solomon Islands.

Were there aftershocks?

Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 4.9 earthquakes can continue for several days and gradually diminish over time.

Is this the same earthquake as the M5.0 one earlier?

No. This magnitude 4.9 earthquake is an aftershock of the larger magnitude 5.0 mainshock that occurred earlier 145 km SE of Kirakira, Solomon Islands. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes triggered by stress changes from the mainshock.

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.