M4.9 Earthquake Strikes South of the Kermadec Islands

Kermadec Islands, South Pacific — A magnitude 4.9 earthquake struck south of the Kermadec Islands in the South Pacific on Friday afternoon, at 4:10 p.m. Central Time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

What happened:

The quake hit at a depth of about 23 miles below the ocean floor, centered in open water south of the Kermadec Islands, northeast of New Zealand. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the shaking at 4:10 p.m. Central Time on Friday, November 13. No tsunami warning was issued.

Impacts:

No reports of shaking felt on land have come in so far, and no damage has been reported. The quake struck far from populated areas, in a remote stretch of the South Pacific. The U.S. Geological Survey says this quake generated no tsunami threat.

What to do:

If you are ever near the coast and feel strong shaking, move to higher ground right away and stay there until officials say it is safe. Inside, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table, and hold on until the shaking stops. After the shaking, check for hazards like broken glass and gas leaks, and be ready for aftershocks.

Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), November 13, 2026.