5.0

M5.0 Earthquake 216 km WSW of Adak, AlaskaApril 18, 2026

2026-04-18 13:15:09 UTC (1 day ago)

Maximum shaking intensity MMI 4.8 (moderate).

On April 18, 2026 at 13:15 UTC, a magnitude 5.0 shallow crustal earthquake struck 216 km WSW of Adak, Alaska, at a depth of 35.0 km and coordinates 51.4200°, -179.6701°. This earthquake was detected by 51 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 Alaska, a region characterized by Pacific Plate subduction beneath the North American Plate, producing frequent megathrust and crustal earthquakes along the Aleutian arc. The nearest mapped fault system is the Aleutian megathrust. View all earthquakes in Alaska.

Learn more: Magnitude scale · Aftershock sequences

Map showing earthquake epicenter at 51.42°, -179.67°

Earthquake Details

Magnitude
5.0 mb
Depth
35.0 km
shallow crustal
Location
51.4200°N
-179.6701°E
Intensity (MMI)
4.8
moderate

Technical Information

Event ID
us6000sr43
Event Type
earthquake
Status
✓ Reviewed
Significance
385
Stations Used
51
Azimuthal Gap
175.0°
Min Station Distance
0.552°
RMS Residual
0.96 sec
Last Updated
2026-04-19 13:25:13 UTC

Common Questions

How strong was the magnitude 5.0 earthquake near Adak, Alaska?

The magnitude 5.0 earthquake that struck 216 km WSW of Adak, Alaska on April 18, 2026 at 13:15 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 51.4200°, -179.6701°, which is 216 km WSW of Adak, Alaska. View all earthquakes in Alaska.

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 Alaska had earthquakes this big before?

The largest recorded earthquake in Alaska was the M9.2 Great Alaska earthquake of March 27, 1964. 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.