Recent Seismic Activity in Bulgaria and North Macedonia
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January 6, 2026 – A series of minor earthquakes have been recently recorded in Bulgaria and neighboring North Macedonia, prompting monitoring from geological institutes in both countries. While no meaningful damage or injuries have been reported, the events highlight the ongoing seismic activity in the region.
Earthquakes in Bulgaria – Early January 2026
At the beginning of January 2026, Bulgaria experienced two moderate earthquakes near blagoevgrad on January 2nd.The National Institute of Geophysics, Geodesy and geography (NIGGG) at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) reported magnitudes of 3.7 and 3.3 . More recently, on Monday, January 5th, a 2.1 magnitude earthquake was detected at 19:23 local time, approximately 7 kilometers from Sandanski. The depth of this tremor was recorded at 10 kilometers.
Earthquake in North Macedonia – January 5th, 2026
Following the seismic activity in Bulgaria, a 2.5 magnitude earthquake was registered in North Macedonia on January 5th,2026,at 20:22 local time. The epicenter was located approximately 20 kilometers from the border with Bulgaria, near Strumica .
Regional Seismic History
North Macedonia and Bulgaria are located in a seismically active zone. Historically,the region has experienced significant earthquakes. A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck 86 kilometers west of Centar Župa, North Macedonia, on november 26, 2019 . Bulgaria experienced a more substantial earthquake in 1940, with a magnitude of 7.7, located 211km north of Ruse . A significant earthquake also occurred in 1905, with a magnitude of 7.2.
Monitoring and Preparedness
The NIGGG-BAS in Bulgaria and relevant authorities in North Macedonia continue to monitor seismic activity in the region. residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with earthquake safety procedures and to have emergency plans in place. Further details and resources can be found on the websites of these institutions.