M4.4 Earthquake Near Calingasta, Argentina

Published: 266 days ago•Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 11:28 PM UTC

A light magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck 65 km SW of Calingasta, Argentina at a depth of 135.9 km (intermediate focal zone), releasing seismic energy equivalent to approximately 60 tons of TNT. Here is the verified USGS telemetry, interactive epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.

4.4MAG
Light EarthquakeIntermediate Focal Depth
Calingasta, ArgentinaArgentina(65 km SW of)

Seismic Telemetry Specifications

Magnitude

4.4MB

Light Seismic Class

Focal Depth

135.9km

Upper Mantle

Epicenter

31.666° S, 69.995° W

GPS Coordinates

Energy Yield

60 tons

TNT Equivalent Power

Network Source

USGS

USGS Real-time Feed

Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map

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USGS Source

Is This Earthquake Dangerous?

A magnitude 4.4 event is classified as a light earthquake. Noticeable shaking of indoor objects and rattling doors/windows. Generally causes none to slight non-structural damage in older buildings.

Estimated Shaking Radius~50–100 km
Potential Damage Zone< 15 km (very minor)
Focal Depth EffectModerate Damping

Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities

Calingasta, Argentina• 65 km (40.4 mi) N

Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors.

MMI II • Very Weak
Calingasta• 65.8 km (40.9 mi) NE

Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors.

MMI II • Very Weak
San Juan• 138.9 km (86.3 mi) E

Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors.

MMI II • Very Weak
Mendoza• 173.8 km (108 mi) SE

Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors.

MMI II • Very Weak

Did You Feel This Earthquake?

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Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.

What Does Magnitude 4.4 Mean?

Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:

1.0 – 2.9Micro
3.0 – 3.9Minor
4.0 – 4.9Light
This Event
5.0 – 5.9Moderate
6.0 – 6.9Strong
7.0 – 7.9Major
8.0+Great

Logarithmic Energy Multiplier

Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:

10× Ground Motion Amplitude
The seismograph wave amplitude jumps tenfold for every 1.0 magnitude step.
~31.6× Radiated Kinetic Energy
Total energy release multiplies exponentially (101.5 &approx; 31.62 times per unit).

Why Did This Earthquake Happen?

Argentina's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Nazca Plate subducting beneath the South American Plate. Major regional fault structures include Andean thrust faults, Punta del Este Fault, Magallanes-Fagnano Fault.

Originating at a depth of 135.9 km (Upper Mantle / Wadati-Benioff Zone (70–300 km)), this rupture occurred originated within the descending oceanic plate inside the upper mantle. shaking radiates over a wider geographic area with attenuated high frequencies.

Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors

Seismologists note that minor aftershocks remain common in the 24 to 48 hours following tremors of magnitude 4.4. According to statistical seismic models, there is roughly a 5% probability of a subsequent event of equal or greater strength occurring in the same fault zone. Residents in Argentina are advised to check living spaces for unsecured items.

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Earthquake Safety Action Plan

Complete Safety Guide →
During the Shaking
  • •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
  • •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
  • •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
Immediately After
  • •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
  • •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after significant events.
  • •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
Preparation & Kits
  • •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, food, and first aid.
  • •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural studs.
  • •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.

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