Live Seismic Telemetry • REVIEWED Event

Light 4.8 Earthquake Near Tual, Indonesia

2 days agoSaturday, September 12, 2026 at 06:14:30 AM UTC

A light magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck 253 km WSW of Tual, Indonesia on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 06:14:30 AM UTC. This intermediate focal depth (134.4 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 239 tons of TNT. Here is the verified US telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.

4.8MAG
Light EarthquakeIntermediate Focal Depth
Tual, IndonesiaIndonesia(253 km WSW of)

Seismic Telemetry Specifications

Magnitude

4.8MB

Light Seismic Class

Focal Depth

134.4km

Upper Mantle

Epicenter

6.091° S, 130.508° E

GPS Coordinates

Energy Yield

239 tons

TNT Equivalent Power

Network Source

US

USGS Real-time Feed

Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map

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Is This Earthquake Dangerous?

A magnitude 4.8 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

Tual, Indonesia253 km (157.2 mi) ENE

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

MMI IIVery Weak

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What Does Magnitude 4.8 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?

This archipelago is situated along the Sunda and Philippine megathrust subduction zones within the Pacific Ring of Fire. The Indo-Australian Plate converges northeastward beneath the Eurasian and Sunda plates, producing massive tectonic friction, deep oceanic trenches, and widespread volcanic arcs.

Originating at a depth of 134.4 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 4.8. 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 Indonesia 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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