Strong and shallow M6.0 earthquake hits Volcano Islands, Japan region

The epicenter was located 882 km (548 miles) north of Saipan (population 48 220), and 906 km (563 miles) north of San Jose Village, Tinian (population 15 000), Northern Mariana Islands.

There is no tsunami threat from this earthquake.

The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. No affected structures or city exposure data were reported.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Regional seismicity

References:

¹ M6.0 earthquake Volcano Islands, Japan region – USGS – March 2, 2026

² M6.0 earthquake Volcano Islands, Japan region – EMSC – March 2, 2026

Rishav Kothari

Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.

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