Moderate 5.0 Earthquake Near Mitsukaidō, Japan
A moderate magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck 5 km NE of Mitsukaidō, Japan on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 03:07:38 PM UTC. This intermediate focal depth (77.3 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 477 tons of TNT. Here is the verified US telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(5 km NE of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
5.0MB
Moderate Seismic Class
77.3km
Upper Mantle
36.056° N, 140.021° E
GPS Coordinates
477 tons
TNT Equivalent Power
US
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 5.0 event is classified as a moderate earthquake. Can cause slight to moderate damage to poorly constructed buildings. Felt widely across nearby communities within dozens of kilometers.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Felt by many indoors. Dishes, windows rattle; walls make creaking sound.
Felt by many indoors. Dishes, windows rattle; walls make creaking sound.
Felt by many indoors. Dishes, windows rattle; walls make creaking sound.
Felt by many indoors. Dishes, windows rattle; walls make creaking sound.
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 5.0 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 77.3 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
Following an earthquake of magnitude 5.0, 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.
Never Miss Earthquake Updates on Google
Google Search FeatureAdd Earthquake Today as a Preferred Source in Google to see real-time seismic alerts, epicenter maps, and aftershock telemetry highlighted in Top Stories & AI Overviews.
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.
Explore Related Seismic Activity
Monitor live earthquakes, historical magnitude leaders, and regional tectonic activity across the globe.