Micro 1.8 Earthquake Near West Richland, United States
A micro magnitude 1.8 earthquake struck 3 km SSW of West Richland, United States on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 10:22:24 PM UTC. This shallow crustal event (-0.2 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 8.7 kg of TNT. Here is the verified UW telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(3 km SSW of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
1.8ML
Micro Seismic Class
-0.2km
Crustal Layer
46.276° N, 119.388° W
GPS Coordinates
8.7 kg
TNT Equivalent Power
UW
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 1.8 event is classified as a micro earthquake. Micro-earthquakes are rarely felt by humans and are typically recorded only by sensitive seismometers.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Felt by many indoors. Dishes, windows rattle; walls make creaking sound.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
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What Does Magnitude 1.8 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?
United States's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Pacific Plate sliding past North American Plate along San Andreas; Juan de Fuca subducting along Cascadia; Pacific subduction along the Aleutian Trench. Major regional fault structures include San Andreas Fault System, Cascadia Subduction Zone, Aleutian Megathrust, Hayward Fault, New Madrid Seismic Zone.
Originating at a depth of -0.2 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.
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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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