4.5

M4.5 Earthquake 45 km E of Noda, JapanApril 22, 2026

2026-04-22 17:46:37 UTC (7 hours ago)

On April 22, 2026 at 17:46 UTC, a magnitude 4.5 shallow crustal earthquake struck 45 km E of Noda, Japan, at a depth of 35.0 km and coordinates 40.1155°, 142.3557°. This earthquake was detected by 66 seismic stations with good location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 312, placing it among routine seismic activity.

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

Map showing earthquake epicenter at 40.12°, 142.36°

Earthquake Details

Magnitude
4.5 mb
Depth
35.0 km
shallow crustal
Location
40.1155°N
142.3557°E

Technical Information

Event ID
us6000ss57
Event Type
earthquake
Status
✓ Reviewed
Significance
312
Stations Used
66
Azimuthal Gap
149.0°
Min Station Distance
1.193°
RMS Residual
1.03 sec
Last Updated
2026-04-22 20:17:17 UTC

Common Questions

How strong was the magnitude 4.5 earthquake near Noda, Japan?

The magnitude 4.5 earthquake that struck 45 km E of Noda, Japan on April 22, 2026 at 17:46 UTC had a depth of 35.0 km. For context, this was a light earthquake commonly felt near the epicenter.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The earthquake epicenter was located at 40.1155°, 142.3557°, which is 45 km E of Noda, Japan. View all earthquakes in Japan.

Were there aftershocks?

Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 4.5 earthquakes can continue for several days 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 4.5 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.