Shallow M6.0 earthquake hits South Sandwich Islands region

A shallow M6.0 earthquake was registered in the South Sandwich Islands region at 11:47 UTC on August 12, 2026. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles), based on reviewed data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Coordinates for the event were identified at 29.0°S, 60.2°W.

The quake’s epicenter is situated offshore in the remote South Sandwich Islands region, located in the southern Atlantic Ocean to the east of South America. This area is uninhabited, with no nearby towns or permanent settlements. The region is characterized by its isolated volcanic island arcs and extreme oceanic conditions.

Given the offshore and remote location, there are no significant population centers, and only maritime or scientific research traffic is likely to be in proximity. Critical infrastructure in the region is minimal, mainly limited to potential shipping routes and research activity.

There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.

USGS issued a green alert for this event, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or damage.

The maximum estimated intensity for this event is IV, and the significance index is 554 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), which is calculated using the magnitude and estimated impact. Given the remoteness of the event, felt reports are not available.

The South Sandwich Islands region sits along the Scotia subduction zone, where the South American Plate and the Scotia Plate interact. This is a seismically active area, known for frequent moderate to strong earthquakes along the oceanic trench.

This information was last updated at 12:17 UTC on August 12, 2026.