Live Seismic Telemetry • REVIEWED Event

Light 4.8 Earthquake Near Kilmia, Yemen

2 hours ago•Monday, September 28, 2026 at 05:37:55 PM UTC

A light magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck 155 km NNW of Kilmia, Yemen on Monday, September 28, 2026 at 05:37:55 PM UTC. This shallow crustal event (10.0 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 239 tons of TNT. Here is the verified US telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.

4.8MAG
Light EarthquakeShallow Crustal Event
Kilmia, YemenYemen(155 km NNW of)

Seismic Telemetry Specifications

Magnitude

4.8MB

Light Seismic Class

Focal Depth

10.0km

Crustal Layer

Epicenter

13.388° N, 51.493° E

GPS Coordinates

Energy Yield

239 tons

TNT Equivalent Power

Network Source

US

USGS Real-time Feed

Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map

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Is This Earthquake Dangerous?

A magnitude 4.8 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 Radius~50–100 km
Potential Damage Zone< 15 km (very minor)
Focal Depth EffectHigh Surface Energy (Crustal)

Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities

Kilmia, Yemen• 155 km (96.3 mi) S

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

MMI III • Weak

Did You Feel This Earthquake?

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What Does Magnitude 4.8 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
4.0 – 4.9Light
This Event
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 &approx; 31.62 times per unit).

Why Did This Earthquake Happen?

Yemen's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Located at the southwestern tip of the Arabian Plate adjacent to the Afar Triple Junction and the active spreading center of the Gulf of Aden, featuring active extensional block faulting.. Major regional fault structures include Gulf of Aden Oceanic Spreading Ridge, Red Sea Rift Southern Margin Faults, Dhamar-Rada Fault System, Aden Transform Faults.

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

Seismologists note that minor aftershocks remain common in the 24 to 48 hours following tremors of magnitude 4.8. 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 Yemen 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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