M5.0 Earthquake in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana Islands

On March 3, 2026 at 14:38 UTC, a magnitude 5.0 intermediate depth earthquake struck in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana Islands, at a depth of 199.2 km and coordinates 18.9022°, 145.6637°. This earthquake was detected by 215 seismic stations with excellent location accuracy and was assigned a USGS significance rating of 385, placing it among routine seismic activity.

Physical scale: An earthquake of magnitude 5.0 releases seismic energy equivalent to roughly 477 metric tons of TNT. Empirical fault-scaling laws (Wells & Coppersmith, 1994) estimate the subsurface rupture length at approximately 1.7 km — a useful intuition for the size of the slip patch on the fault.

This earthquake is part of an ongoing aftershock sequence following the magnitude 5.4 mainshock that occurred 29 days ago in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana 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.

Common Questions

How strong was the magnitude 5.0 earthquake in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana Islands?

The magnitude 5.0 earthquake that struck in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana Islands on March 3, 2026 at 14:38 UTC had a depth of 199.2 km. For context, this was a moderate earthquake that could be widely felt.

Where did the earthquake occur?

The earthquake epicenter was located at 18.9022°, 145.6637°, which is in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana Islands.

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.

Is this the same earthquake as the M5.4 one earlier?

No. This magnitude 5.0 earthquake is an aftershock of the larger magnitude 5.4 mainshock that occurred earlier in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana 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.

M5.0 Earthquake in the Pagan region, Northern Mariana Islands — March 3, 2026

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