M4.2 Depth: 12.0 km

M4.2 Earthquake near ECUADOR (Ecuador)

UTC time: 2026-01-03 08:46:45 UTC Local time: —

About this earthquake

A magnitude M4.2 earthquake was recorded near ECUADOR (Ecuador) on January 3, 2026 at 08:46 UTC. The hypocenter lay relatively close to the surface at around 12 km, increasing how strongly it was felt. Earthquakes of this magnitude are clearly felt; minor damage to vulnerable buildings is possible.

The event was recorded by EMSC.

Details

Magnitude

M4.2

Depth

12.0 km

UTC time

2026-01-03 08:46:45 UTC

Local time

—

Country

Ecuador

City

Chimborazo

Source

emsc

Coordinates

-1.97000, -78.83000

Temperature

12.7°C

Map

Depth profile

Shallow

12 km

12 km — shallower than the regional average (41.3 km)

Regional average: 41.3 km

Why depth matters

Shallow quakes release energy near the surface — shaking is felt more strongly and damage potential is higher.

Depth classes per USGS

Volcanoes nearby

Licto

Distance: 32 km ·Pyroclastic cone(s) ·Elevation: 3'322 m ·Ecuador
Sangay

Distance: 54 km ·Stratovolcano ·Elevation: 5'286 m ·Last eruption: 2026 ·Ecuador
Chimborazo

Distance: 56 km ·Stratovolcano ·Elevation: 6'261 m ·Last eruption: 550 ·Ecuador
Tungurahua

Distance: 71 km ·Stratovolcano ·Elevation: 5'023 m ·Last eruption: 2016 ·Ecuador
Quilotoa

Distance: 124 km ·Caldera ·Elevation: 3'914 m ·Last eruption: 1280 ·Ecuador
Iliniza

Distance: 146 km ·Stratovolcano ·Elevation: 5'162 m ·Ecuador

Historic earthquake map · Ecuador

Open history map

Explore recent and long-term earthquake activity in this country. Use filters to narrow down by magnitude, depth, and date range.

Country statistics · Ecuador

Country overview

View earthquake KPIs, strongest and latest events, and averages for this country.

Stats (last 24h)

Global (24h)

550

Country (24h)