4.9

M4.9 Earthquake 33 km S of Kirakira, Solomon IslandsApril 16, 2026

2026-04-16 06:26:44 UTC (3 days ago)

Aftershock of the M5.8 mainshock.

On April 16, 2026 at 06:26 UTC, a magnitude 4.9 shallow crustal earthquake struck 33 km S of Kirakira, Solomon Islands, at a depth of 50.8 km and coordinates -10.7563°, 161.9355°. This earthquake was detected by 31 seismic stations with good 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 5.8 mainshock that occurred 22 hours ago 44 km WSW of Kirakira, Solomon Islands. Since the mainshock, the USGS has recorded 0 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 -10.76°, 161.94°

Earthquake Details

Magnitude
4.9 mb
Depth
50.8 km
shallow crustal
Location
-10.7563°N
161.9355°E

Technical Information

Event ID
us6000sqhl
Event Type
earthquake
Status
✓ Reviewed
Significance
369
Stations Used
31
Azimuthal Gap
110.0°
Min Station Distance
2.355°
RMS Residual
1.15 sec
Last Updated
2026-04-16 06:44:08 UTC

Common Questions

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

The magnitude 4.9 earthquake that struck 33 km S of Kirakira, Solomon Islands on April 16, 2026 at 06:26 UTC had a depth of 50.8 km. For context, this was a light earthquake commonly felt near the epicenter.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The earthquake epicenter was located at -10.7563°, 161.9355°, which is 33 km S 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 M5.8 one earlier?

No. This magnitude 4.9 earthquake is an aftershock of the larger magnitude 5.8 mainshock that occurred earlier 44 km WSW 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.