Magnitude 7.7, depth 17.0 km, 2009-01-03 19:43:50 UTC.
A high index means recent activity is high relative to the selected historical baseline. It does not mean that a larger earthquake is about to occur.
A short factual reading of this event from the available observations.
Long-term comparisons are more robust at higher magnitudes because small-earthquake detection capability has changed over time.
high magnitude
Descriptive indicators available for this event and its surroundings.
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These indicators describe data available after detection. They are neither a forecast nor a direct estimate of damage or individual risk.
Nearby events observed around this epicenter. Spatial proximity does not necessarily mean they belong to the same sequence.
Descriptive map centered on the epicenter; it does not represent felt intensity or risk.
This event belongs to a sequence detected by Quake Pulse.
Earthquake parameters can be revised after first publication. This timeline shows versions retained by Quake Pulse.
An earthquake record can change after the first automatic publication as additional stations contribute data and analysts refine the solution.
Magnitude, depth, felt reports and status describe different parts of the event. None of them alone predicts the consequences for a specific city.
If the earthquake creates a safety concern, follow local authorities and official warning channels rather than relying on a public data website.
Guides, explainers and practical reading to go beyond the live data.
Magnitude is only one part of the story. Depth, distance, local ground conditions and building vulnerability help explain why shaking can differ so much from one earthquake to another.
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Earthquake-resistant design is not about making buildings immovable. It is about controlling forces, deformation and failure so people have a much better chance of staying safe.
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Early-warning systems detect an earthquake after it starts and try to send an alert before the strongest shaking arrives. The difference between warning and prediction matters.
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