Minor 3.1 Earthquake Near Animas, Puerto Rico
A minor magnitude 3.1 earthquake struck 4 km NNE of Animas, Puerto Rico on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 09:00:48 PM UTC. This intermediate focal depth (105.4 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 773 kg of TNT. Here is the verified PR telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(4 km NNE of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
3.1MD
Minor Seismic Class
105.4km
Upper Mantle
18.478° N, 66.614° W
GPS Coordinates
773 kg
TNT Equivalent Power
PR
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.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near Puerto Rico.
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?
Puerto Rico's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Located on the Puerto Rico-Virgin Islands microplate between the North American Plate to the north (Puerto Rico Trench) and Caribbean Plate to the south (Muertos Trough). Major regional fault structures include Puerto Rico Trench, Muertos Trough, Mona Passage Faults, Great Northern Puerto Rico Fault Zone.
Originating at a depth of 105.4 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
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.
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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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