Dutch seismologist warns of possible strong earthquakes in early 2026

A prominent Dutch earthquake researcher has sparked global attention after warning of a heightened risk of strong seismic activity during the first days of 2026.

Frank Hoogerbeets, known for linking seismic activity to planetary alignments, said the beginning of the year could witness notable earthquakes due to what he described as significant astronomical conjunctions within the solar system.

In a video published on his official YouTube channel, Hoogerbeets pointed to a conjunction involving Mercury, the Sun, and Uranus, alongside another alignment bringing together Earth, Uranus, the Moon, Venus, and Mars in early January. He argued that such planetary positioning could stimulate increased movement in the Earth’s crust.

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Hoogerbeets said seismic effects may begin to peak around January 3, with what he described as a critical window extending from January 7 to January 9. He suggested that a major seismic event could occur around January 4, with a margin of one day before or after.

According to his assessment, potential earthquakes could range between magnitude five and six on the Richter scale, warning that they could reach magnitude seven in worst-case scenarios. He added that the final intensity would depend on accumulated stress in the Earth’s crust and local tectonic conditions, factors he acknowledged are difficult to measure precisely.

As planetary alignments intensify between January 8 and January 9, Hoogerbeets raised the possibility of even stronger seismic events, suggesting that, in extreme cases, earthquakes could reach magnitude eight.

He urged residents of earthquake-prone regions, including Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Istanbul, to remain vigilant starting in early January and to take all necessary precautions in case of a major earthquake.