M4.9 Depth: 37.4 km

M4.9 Earthquake near 30 km SW of Lakatoro, Vanuatu (Vanuatu)

UTC time: 2025-09-12 06:05:25 UTC Local time: —

About this earthquake

On September 12, 2025 at 06:05 UTC, a magnitude M4.9 earthquake occurred near 30 km SW of Lakatoro, Vanuatu (Vanuatu). The hypocenter lay relatively close to the surface at around 37 km, increasing how strongly it was felt. Earthquakes of this magnitude are clearly felt; minor damage to vulnerable buildings is possible.

The data is provided by USGS and cross-checked across seismological networks.

Details

Magnitude

M4.9

Depth

37.4 km

UTC time

2025-09-12 06:05:25 UTC

Local time

—

Country

Vanuatu

City

Malampa

Source

usgs

Coordinates

-16.27760, 167.19340

Temperature

25.9°C

Map

Depth profile

Shallow

37.4 km

37.4 km — shallower than the regional average (112.7 km)

Regional average: 112.7 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

Ambrym

Distance: 99 km ·Shield(pyroclastic) ·Elevation: 1'334 m ·Last eruption: 2024 ·Vanuatu
Ambae

Distance: 120 km ·Shield ·Elevation: 1'496 m ·Last eruption: 2026 ·Vanuatu
Lopevi

Distance: 126 km ·Stratovolcano ·Elevation: 1'413 m ·Last eruption: 2007 ·Vanuatu
East Epi

Distance: 135 km ·Stratovolcano(es) ·Elevation: 833 m ·Last eruption: 2023 ·Vanuatu
Kuwae

Distance: 154 km ·Caldera ·Elevation: -2 m ·Last eruption: 1974 ·Vanuatu
Nguna-Emau

Distance: 180 km ·Stratovolcano(es) ·Elevation: 589 m ·Vanuatu

Historic earthquake map · Vanuatu

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 · Vanuatu

Country overview

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

Stats (last 24h)

Global (24h)

583

Country (24h)