5.0

M5.0 Earthquake 242 km E of Kuril’sk, RussiaApril 18, 2026

2026-04-18 00:28:21 UTC (1 day ago)

On April 18, 2026 at 00:28 UTC, a magnitude 5.0 shallow crustal earthquake struck 242 km E of Kuril’sk, Russia, at a depth of 35.0 km and coordinates 45.3903°, 150.9639°. This earthquake was detected by 57 seismic stations with good location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 385, placing it among routine seismic activity.

The epicenter is located in Russia, a region characterized by the Kuril-Kamchatka subduction zone on the northwestern Pacific Ring of Fire. The nearest mapped fault system is the Kuril-Kamchatka Trench. View all earthquakes in Russia.

Learn more: Magnitude scale · Aftershock sequences

Map showing earthquake epicenter at 45.39°, 150.96°

Earthquake Details

Magnitude
5.0 mb
Depth
35.0 km
shallow crustal
Location
45.3903°N
150.9639°E

Technical Information

Event ID
us6000sr09
Event Type
earthquake
Status
✓ Reviewed
Significance
385
Stations Used
57
Azimuthal Gap
137.0°
Min Station Distance
6.095°
RMS Residual
0.80 sec
Last Updated
2026-04-18 00:54:58 UTC

Common Questions

How strong was the magnitude 5.0 earthquake near Kuril’sk, Russia?

The magnitude 5.0 earthquake that struck 242 km E of Kuril’sk, Russia on April 18, 2026 at 00:28 UTC had a depth of 35.0 km. For context, this was a moderate earthquake that could be widely felt.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The earthquake epicenter was located at 45.3903°, 150.9639°, which is 242 km E of Kuril’sk, Russia. View all earthquakes in Russia.

Were there aftershocks?

Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 5.0 earthquakes can continue for days to weeks and gradually diminish over time.

Has Russia had earthquakes this big before?

The largest recorded earthquake in Russia was the M9.0 Kamchatka earthquake of November 4, 1952. Today's magnitude 5.0 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.