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4.2 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Great Falls, Montana

1/30/2026

33 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On January 29, 2026, a magnitude 4.2 earthquake struck near Great Falls, Montana.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the epicenter about 7.5 miles northeast of Malmstrom Air Force Base.
The depth was about 6.2 miles.
The quake was felt across Chester and Helena.
Initial social media reports erroneously indicated a magnitude of 5.1.

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Story summary

On January 29, 2026, a magnitude 4.2 earthquake struck near Great Falls, Montana.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported the epicenter about 7.5 miles northeast of Malmstrom Air Force Base.
The depth was about 6.2 miles.
The quake was felt across Chester and Helena.
Initial social media reports erroneously indicated a magnitude of 5.1.