Light 4.9 Earthquake Near Patea, New Zealand
A light magnitude 4.9 earthquake struck 66 km SSW of Patea, New Zealand on Monday, September 14, 2026 at 10:44:46 PM UTC. This intermediate focal depth (102.6 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 338 tons of TNT. Here is the verified US telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(66 km SSW of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
4.9MB
Light Seismic Class
102.6km
Upper Mantle
40.330° S, 174.232° E
GPS Coordinates
338 tons
TNT Equivalent Power
US
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 4.9 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 Across Nearby Communities
Felt by many indoors. Dishes, windows rattle; walls make creaking sound.
Felt indoors. Hanging objects swing slightly. Vibration like a passing light truck.
Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near New Zealand.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 4.9 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?
New Zealand straddles the boundary between the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates. In the South Island, the Alpine Fault accommodates oblique strike-slip motion, while the Hikurangi Subduction Zone off the North Island generates subduction earthquakes along the southwestern edge of the Ring of Fire.
Originating at a depth of 102.6 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 4.9. 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 New Zealand are advised to check living spaces for unsecured items.
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.