M 5.0 - off the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand

Name: M 5.0 - off the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand
Start: 2023-02-15T14:48:27+00:00
Location: off the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand

February 15, 2023 at 14:48:27 UTC

Depth: 115.51 km (Intermediate)

Key Takeaway

This moderate earthquake (M5.0) occurred 3 years ago near off the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, at a depth of 115.51 km (intermediate). It was felt by 5 people.

M 5.0

Moderate

Green

PAGER Alert

Tsunami

Felt Reports

Event Details

Magnitude	5.0 mb
Depth	115.51 km (Intermediate)
Location	-37.1483S, 177.5024E
Community Intensity	II (Weak)
Mercalli Intensity	III (Weak)
Felt Reports (DYFI)	5 people
Alert Level (PAGER)	Green — No fatalities or damage expected
Tsunami Warning	No
Significance	386 / 3000
Status	Reviewed
Network	us
USGS Event Page	View on USGS →

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the magnitude of this earthquake?

This earthquake had a magnitude of 5, classified as "Moderate". Moderate earthquakes can cause damage to poorly constructed buildings.

How deep was this earthquake?

This earthquake occurred at a depth of 115.51 km, classified as "Intermediate". Intermediate-depth earthquakes are felt over a wider area but typically cause less surface damage than shallow events of the same magnitude.

Where exactly did this earthquake occur?

This earthquake occurred near off the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, at coordinates -37.1483S, 177.5024E. The location is determined by analyzing seismic wave arrival times at multiple monitoring stations.

Were there aftershocks associated with this event?

Aftershock data for this specific event can be explored by viewing nearby recent earthquakes listed below on this page. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that occur in the same area following a larger event, and they can continue for days, weeks, or even months depending on the original earthquake's magnitude.

What does the magnitude of this earthquake mean in practical terms?

A magnitude 5 earthquake is classified as "Moderate" — these are widely felt and can cause damage to vulnerable structures, though well-built buildings typically withstand them.

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