After several powerful earthquakes struck countries including Venezuela, Japan, Colombia, and Indonesia in recent months, it can feel as if the planet is shaking more than usual. But contrary to expectations, current data do not show an extraordinary rise in global earthquake activity. About 20,000 earthquakes are recorded worldwide each year, although most are too small for people to notice.
Over the past decade, the number of earthquakes measuring magnitude 6 or higher has fluctuated rather than steadily increased. In 2026, 91 such earthquakes had occurred by mid-August, including 11 that reached magnitude 7 or higher. Those figures are higher than those in recent years, but they remain within normal variation.
Earthquakes occur because Earth’s outer layer is divided into tectonic plates that slowly move. Where these plates meet, friction can cause the edges to become locked, allowing pressure to build until rocks suddenly shift along faults. There is no known earthquake season, and scientists cannot predict the exact time or location of a major earthquake.
Recent earthquakes also show that magnitude is only part of the story. A strong earthquake in a remote area may cause little damage, while a shallower quake near a major city can be far more destructive. Building quality, soil conditions, emergency planning, and rescue capacity can make a major difference.
For now, 2026 does not appear to mark a dramatic rise in global seismic activity. Several strong earthquakes have occurred within a short period, making the pattern more noticeable, but long-term records show that the Earth is not suddenly shaking more than before.
Mitch Justine D. Martin Staff Reporter teen/1788757165/1613367687
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After several powerful earthquakes struck countries including Venezuela, Japan, Colombia, and Indonesia in recent months, it can feel as if the planet is shaking more than usual.
