M 6.3 - 266 km NE of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands

Name: M 6.3 - 266 km NE of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands
Start: 2024-09-16T11:36:34+00:00
Location: 266 km NE of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands

September 16, 2024 at 11:36:34 UTC

Depth: 31.00 km (Shallow)

Key Takeaway

This strong earthquake (M6.3) occurred 1 year ago near 266 km NE of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, at a depth of 31.00 km (shallow). It was felt by 49 people.

M 6.3

Strong

Green

PAGER Alert

Tsunami

Felt Reports

Event Details

Magnitude	6.3 mww
Depth	31.00 km (Shallow)
Location	17.1539N, 147.2254E
Community Intensity	III (Weak)
Mercalli Intensity	III (Weak)
Felt Reports (DYFI)	49 people
Alert Level (PAGER)	Green — No fatalities or damage expected
Tsunami Warning	No
Significance	627 / 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 6.3, classified as "Strong". Strong earthquakes can cause severe damage in areas several tens of miles across.

How deep was this earthquake?

This earthquake occurred at a depth of 31.00 km, classified as "Shallow". Shallow earthquakes tend to cause more damage at the surface because the energy has less distance to travel before reaching buildings and infrastructure.

Where exactly did this earthquake occur?

This earthquake occurred near 266 km NE of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, at coordinates 17.1539N, 147.2254E. 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 6.3 earthquake is classified as "Strong" — these can cause significant damage in populated areas, particularly to older or poorly constructed buildings.