M6.5 Earthquake – Bonin Islands, Japan
A strong magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck near Bonin Islands, Japan at a deep focal depth of 492.4 km, releasing seismic energy equivalent to approximately 85 kt of TNT. Here is the verified USGS telemetry, interactive epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
Seismic Telemetry Specifications
6.5MWW
Strong Seismic Class
492.4km
Deep Mantle
27.795° N, 139.618° E
GPS Coordinates
85 kt
TNT Equivalent Power
USGS
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 6.5 event is classified as a strong earthquake. Can be destructive in populated areas up to ~160 km from the epicenter. Well-built structures withstand shaking, but unreinforced masonry may suffer serious damage.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
The epicenter occurred in a remote or offshore marine sector with no major population centers situated within the primary ground shaking perimeter.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near Japan.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 6.5 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
Japan sits at the complex collision intersection of four major tectonic plates: the Pacific, Philippine Sea, Eurasian, and North American plates. Subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Japanese archipelago creates intense strain that releases as high-frequency megathrust earthquakes and volcanic activity along the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Originating at a depth of 492.4 km (Deep Mantle Transition Zone (>300 km)), this rupture occurred generated deep within earth's mantle under immense hydrostatic pressure. surface shaking is significantly damped despite large energy release.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Following an earthquake of magnitude 6.5, an active aftershock sequence is expected over the coming days and weeks. In accordance with Omori's Law and Båth's Law of seismology, secondary tremors decrease in frequency over time, with the largest expected aftershock historically averaging approximately 1.0 to 1.2 magnitude units below the mainshock. Local residents should remain vigilant for secondary shaking, particularly when inspecting older structures or unreinforced masonry.
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Earthquake Safety Action Plan
Complete Safety Guide →- •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.
- •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.
- •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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