Shallow M5.7 earthquake hits south of Africa

An M5.7 earthquake was recorded south of Africa at 20:54 UTC on September 20, 2026. The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles), based on data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The coordinates place the epicenter at 31.2°S, 48.4°W, over the South Atlantic Ocean, well south of the African continent and offshore from any populated landmass.

Given its oceanic location, the surrounding area is remote and not close to major cities, towns, or known population centers. The nearest landmasses are distant, and no populated settlements are in the immediate vicinity.

Critical infrastructure such as shipping lanes and deep-ocean communication cables might exist in the broader South Atlantic region, though no major maritime ports or airports are present near the epicenter due to its remote offshore location.

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 is 0, and no felt reports have been received. The significance index is 500 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

The South Atlantic is generally characterized by slow seafloor spreading along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and is not as tectonically active as regions bordering more complex plate boundaries. Earthquakes in this part of the ocean are less frequent than in major subduction zones or transform fault systems.

This information was last updated at 21:17 UTC on September 20, 2026.