Live Seismic Telemetry • REVIEWED Event

Minor 4.0 Earthquake Near San Antonio, Puerto Rico

14 days agoSunday, August 30, 2026 at 05:47:03 AM UTC

A minor magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck 50 km NNW of San Antonio, Puerto Rico on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at 05:47:03 AM UTC. This shallow crustal event (53.0 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 13 tons of TNT. Here is the verified PR telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.

4.0MAG
Minor EarthquakeShallow Crustal Event
San Antonio, Puerto RicoPuerto Rico(50 km NNW of)

Seismic Telemetry Specifications

Magnitude

4.0MD

Minor Seismic Class

Focal Depth

53.0km

Crustal Layer

Epicenter

18.912° N, 67.288° W

GPS Coordinates

Energy Yield

13 tons

TNT Equivalent Power

Network Source

PR

USGS Real-time Feed

Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map

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Is This Earthquake Dangerous?

A magnitude 4.0 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 Radius~25–50 km
Potential Damage ZoneNone
Focal Depth EffectHigh Surface Energy (Crustal)

Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities

San Antonio, Puerto Rico50 km (31.1 mi) S

Felt indoors. Hanging objects swing slightly. Vibration like a passing light truck.

MMI IIIWeak
San Juan134.1 km (83.3 mi) ESE

Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors.

MMI IIVery Weak

Did You Feel This Earthquake?

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What Does Magnitude 4.0 Mean?

Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:

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

Logarithmic Energy Multiplier

Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:

10× Ground Motion Amplitude
The seismograph wave amplitude jumps tenfold for every 1.0 magnitude step.
~31.6× Radiated Kinetic Energy
Total energy release multiplies exponentially (101.5 ≈ 31.62 times per unit).

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 53.0 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

Seismologists note that minor aftershocks remain common in the 24 to 48 hours following tremors of magnitude 4.0. 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 Puerto Rico are advised to check living spaces for unsecured items.

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Earthquake Safety Action Plan

Complete Safety Guide →
During the Shaking
  • 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.
Immediately After
  • 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.
Preparation & Kits
  • 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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