M5.5 earthquake: Neiafu, Tonga
According to USGS, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck near Neiafu, Tonga on October 12, 2026. It was recorded at 05:38 PM GMT+13 at a depth of 195 km.
Magnitude and location may later be revised by USGS.
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Magnitude
M5.5
mww · Moderate
Depth
195 km
Intermediate
Time (UTC)
04:38:12 AM
October 12, 2026
Local time
05:38 PM
October 12, 2026 · GMT+13
Nearest towns and cities
The epicenter was about 269 km from Nuku'alofa.
- Nuku'alofa · 269 km N
Earthquakes recorded nearby afterwards
Since this earthquake, 1 earthquake have been recorded within 50 km of the epicenter; the largest was M4.6.
| Time (UTC) | Magnitude | Depth | Location | Distance | Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4.6 | 248 km | Neiafu, Tonga · 153 km W | 41 km | USGS |
Earthquake history of the area
From 1990 until this earthquake, 593 earthquakes of magnitude 4.5 or greater were recorded within 100 km of the epicenter. The largest was an M7.5 earthquake on March 24, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Where was the October 12, 2026 earthquake near Neiafu, Tonga?
The earthquake occurred near Neiafu, Tonga at 18.723° S, 175.145° W, at a depth of 195 km. The nearest town was Nuku'alofa, about 269 km away.
How strong was the earthquake near Neiafu, Tonga?
USGS reported a magnitude of mww 5.5 (moderate). How strongly it was felt, and any damage, also depend on depth, distance from the epicenter and local ground conditions.
Were there aftershocks after the earthquake near Neiafu, Tonga?
Since this earthquake, 1 earthquake have been recorded within 50 km of the epicenter; the largest was M4.6.