4.8M

M 4.8 - EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN

EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN

4 days agoSunday, March 15, 2026 at 6:06 AM

Event Details

Latitude

36.3868°

Longitude

139.3297°

Depth

90.00km

Status

reviewed

Event Map

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⚠️ Is This Earthquake Dangerous?

A magnitude 4.8 earthquake is classified as light. Noticeable shaking of indoor objects. Significant damage is unlikely.

📍 Depth: 90.0 km — This intermediate-depth earthquake may cause less intense surface shaking than a shallow one.

📊 What Does Magnitude 4.8 Mean?

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

Every whole number increase in magnitude represents a 10× increase in wave amplitude and ~31.6× increase in energy released.

🧠 Why Did This Earthquake Happen?

Earthquakes occur when stress built up along tectonic plate boundaries or faults is suddenly released. The JAPAN region sits near active geological boundaries where plates are constantly moving, colliding, or sliding past each other.

At a depth of 90.0 km, this seismic event originated in the upper mantle, below the Earth's crust. The energy released traveled outward as seismic waves, causing the shaking felt at the surface.

Learn more about how earthquakes work →

🛡️ Earthquake Safety: What Should You Do?

During the Shaking

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On
  • • Get under a sturdy table or desk
  • • Stay away from windows and heavy objects
  • • If outdoors, move to an open area

After the Shaking

  • • Check for injuries and damage
  • • Be prepared for aftershocks
  • • Avoid damaged buildings
  • • Listen to emergency broadcasts

Be Prepared

  • • Keep an emergency kit ready
  • • Know your evacuation routes
  • • Secure heavy furniture to walls
  • • Practice earthquake drills

🕒 Explore More Earthquakes

Stay informed about seismic activity around the world. Track live earthquakes and explore historical data.

💬 Did You Feel This Earthquake?

Let others know if this earthquake was felt in your area.

M 4.8 - EASTERN HONSHU, JAPAN | Earthquake Today