M7.4 Earthquake 100 km ENE of Miyako, Japan — April 20, 2026
2026-04-20 07:53:00 UTC (3 hours ago)
Felt by 81 people across nearby locations. Maximum shaking intensity MMI 6.2 (very strong).
On April 20, 2026 at 07:53 UTC, a magnitude 7.4 shallow crustal earthquake struck 100 km ENE of Miyako, Japan, at a depth of 35.0 km and coordinates 39.9532°, 143.0462°. The earthquake was reported felt by 81 peopleacross nearby locations, with a maximum shaking intensity of Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) 6.2 (very strong). The USGS PAGER system issued a green alert level for this event, indicating no significant casualties or damage expected. This earthquake was detected by 101 seismic stations with excellent location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 889, making it one of the more significant events of the week. The nearest populated place is Noda (population 3,852).
The epicenter is located in Japan, a region characterized by the intersection of four tectonic plates — Pacific, Philippine Sea, Eurasian, and North American — creating multiple subduction zones. The nearest mapped fault system is the Japan Trench. View all earthquakes in Japan.
Learn more: Magnitude scale · Aftershock sequences
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Earthquake Details
143.0462°E
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Common Questions
How strong was the magnitude 7.4 earthquake near Miyako, Japan?
The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck 100 km ENE of Miyako, Japan on April 20, 2026 at 07:53 UTC had a depth of 35.0 km. It was felt by 81 people with maximum shaking intensity of MMI 6.2 (very strong). For context, this was a strong earthquake capable of causing significant damage.
Where did the earthquake occur?
The earthquake epicenter was located at 39.9532°, 143.0462°, which is 100 km ENE of Miyako, Japan. The nearest populated place is Noda (population 3,852). View all earthquakes in Japan.
Were there aftershocks?
Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 7.4 earthquakes can continue for months to years and gradually diminish over time.
Has Japan had earthquakes this big before?
The largest recorded earthquake in Japan was the M9.1 Tohoku earthquake of March 11, 2011. Today's magnitude 7.4 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.