M3.1 Earthquake – NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
A minor magnitude 3.1 earthquake struck near NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN at a shallow crustal depth of 10.0 km, releasing seismic energy equivalent to approximately 674 kg of TNT. Tracked live on Earthquake Today, here is the verified JMA telemetry, interactive epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
Seismic Telemetry Specifications
3.1M
Minor Seismic Class
10.0km
Crustal Layer
36.800° N, 140.500° E
GPS Coordinates
674 kg
TNT Equivalent Power
JMA
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 3.1 event is classified as a minor earthquake. Often felt by people indoors, especially on upper floors. Hanging objects may swing slightly; structural damage is extremely rare.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Felt by almost no one except under extraordinarily favorable conditions.
Felt by almost no one except under extraordinarily favorable conditions.
Felt by almost no one except under extraordinarily favorable conditions.
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 3.1 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 10.0 km (Earth's Crust (0–70 km)), this rupture occurred occurred within the brittle upper crust. shallow earthquakes produce the highest peak ground acceleration and the sharpest surface shaking.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Micro-tremors and minor events of this scale are part of ongoing background tectonic relaxation. While isolated micro-aftershocks may occur, the likelihood of a damaging secondary event remains statistically low under normal seismic conditions.
Never miss breaking seismic events. Follow us on Google.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions and answers about this earthquake.
No. No tsunami warning, watch, or advisory was issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) or the USGS for this M3.1 event. The focal depth (10.0 km) and magnitude did not generate sufficient vertical seafloor displacement to trigger a hazardous tsunami wave.
Explore Related Seismic Activity
Monitor live earthquakes, historical magnitude leaders, and regional tectonic activity across the globe.