Montana earthquake today: 4.2 magnitude quake strikes near Great Falls – what areas felt the shaking and what we know so far

Great Falls earthquake: A magnitude 4.2 earthquake occurred near Great Falls, Montana, at approximately 12:41 p.m. local time on Thursday, January 29, 2026, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Earthquake Great Falls MT: 4.2 Magnitude Tremor Hits Cascade County

The earthquake's epicenter was determined to be approximately 7.5 miles north-northeast of Malmstrom Air Force Base in Cascade County. The earthquake also had a relatively shallow depth of approximately 12 kilometers, or 6.2 miles, which contributed to the widespread shaking that occurred.

Great Falls Earthquake Felt Across Nearby Montana Communities

According to preliminary seismic information, the earthquake was felt by many people in the area near the epicenter. There were no reported injuries or damage, although possible light to weak shaking could have occurred.

Montana Earthquake Today: Great Falls MT Earthquake Causes Light to Weak Tremors in Surrounding Towns

Light earthquake shaking was experienced in Sidney, which is approximately 10 miles from the epicenter. Weak earthquake shaking was also reported or anticipated in other nearby areas such as Black Eagle, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Great Falls, Sun Prairie, and Fort Benton, which are all between 15 to 23 miles from the earthquake. Very weak shaking may have reached farther towns such as Conrad and Choteau, nearly 50 miles away.

Montana Earthquake Activity Remains Rare but Not Unprecedented

Earthquakes are not very common in Montana compared to other areas, but they do happen, especially in the western and central areas of the state. The area is located close to fault lines that are near the northern Rocky Mountains, as per the Filmogaz report. Although most earthquakes in Montana are not severe, the state has had major earthquakes in the past, such as the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake, as per the report.

FAQs

What was the magnitude of the Great Falls earthquake?

The earthquake had a magnitude of 4.2.

When did the Montana earthquake occur?

It occurred approximately 12:41 p.m. local time on January 29, 2026.