The world felt the rumble today, February 23, 2026, as a series of major earthquakes rattled multiple regions, with the strongest activity centered near Malaysia.
The most powerful tremor was recorded at 12:57 A.M. off the coast of Sabah. While international agencies like the USGS measured it at a 7.1 magnitude, MetMalaysia recorded it as a 6.8-magnitude event. Crucially, the quake struck at an extreme depth of 678km near Kudat, Sabah, which prevented a tsunami and minimized surface damage.
Not just in Malaysia, it also happened in Indonesia, a moderate 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Seram, Indonesia at 7.50 A.M. today. Nonetheless, The Malaysian Metrological Department said, it poses no tsunami threat to Malaysia.
Across the Pacific, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake jolted the southern Fiji Islands at 7:43 GMT on Sunday, accompanied by smaller quakes near Tonga, a 5.4-magnitude earthquake SW of Houma, while Vanuatu recorded a 5.1-magnitude tremor west of Luganville.
Major earthquakes hit the world today: (22.02.2026)
7.1 magnitude earthquake hits NNW of Kota Belud, Malaysia
5.4 magnitude Earthquake hits SW of Houma, Tonga
5.1 magnitude Earthquake hits in W of Luganville, Vanuatu
5.1 magnitude earthquake hits in N of… pic.twitter.com/LbxIm8sON6
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) February 22, 2026
Even, the Philippines experienced a 5.2-magnitude quake north of Namuac, reminding everyone to stay aware of it.
Earthquake struck South America as well. Barranca, Peru felt a 5.0-magnitude tremor to the northeast.
Down in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand’s Riverton was a 4.9-magnitude shake, alongside similar tremors SSE of Pangguna, Papua Guinea, and SW of Ovalle, Chile, both measuring 4.9-magnitude.
Experts say today’s flurry of earthquakes is a stark reminder that the Earth’s crust is constantly moving. While most tremors were moderate and caused no major damage, authorities continue to monitor affected areas closely.
Residents in earthquake-prone regions are reminded to stay alert, follow safety protocals, and report any unusual seismic activity.
Sources: Bernama, myGempa, USGS
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