M4.6 Depth: 598.0 km

M4.6 Earthquake near Lau, Eastern (Fiji)

UTC time: 2026-05-23 17:39:51 UTC Local time: —

About this earthquake

A magnitude M4.6 earthquake was recorded near Lau, Eastern (Fiji) on May 23, 2026 at 17:39 UTC. At roughly 598 km, the focus was very deep, so surface shaking tends to be weaker. Earthquakes of this magnitude are clearly felt; minor damage to vulnerable buildings is possible.

The event was recorded by GFZ.

Details

Magnitude

M4.6

Depth

598.0 km

UTC time

2026-05-23 17:39:51 UTC

Local time

—

Country

Fiji

State

Eastern

City

Lau

County

Lau

Source

gfz

Coordinates

-20.58000, -178.62000

Map

Depth profile

Deep

598 km

598 km — close to the regional average (573.2 km)

Regional average: 573.2 km

Why depth matters

Deep quakes are felt over very large areas but rarely cause surface damage.

Depth classes per USGS

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Fonuafo'ou

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Tofua

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