Shallow M6.4 earthquake hits near Lata, Solomon Islands (Updated)
An M6.4 earthquake was recorded at 03:34 UTC on November 9, 2026, approximately 30 km (19 miles) west-southwest of Lata, Solomon Islands. The quake occurred at a depth of 17.0 km (10.6 miles), according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The epicenter, based on reported coordinates (165.6°E, 10.9°S), was located near the Santa Cruz Islands, a seismically active area of the Solomon Islands. Lata, the main town in Temotu Province, is the closest populated center to the earthquake.
Given the proximity to Lata and the offshore location, key infrastructure in the area likely includes local harbors, coastal roads, and regional airstrips that support basic transportation and supply routes for isolated island communities.
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 VI, and the significance index is 630 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.
The Solomon Islands are located along the boundary of the Australian and Pacific plates, within a zone of high seismic activity known for frequent shallow and sometimes damaging earthquakes.
This information was last updated at 04:08 UTC on November 9, 2026.