USGS:  A major 6.3 earthquake hit south of the Kermadec Islands on Thursday, December 15, 2011, at 10:10:08 UTC, at a depth of 34.1 km (21.2 mi).

Commentary:  The activity of earthquakes in general is phenomenally greater than it ever has been throughout history, only in the last year, and the major quakes, which used to happen rarely are shaking the globe at an alarming rate.  There have been five major (>5.9) quakes throughout the world in the last five days, an average of one a day now!  The chart below shows the shocking increase since just last year.  Jesus said these major earthquakes would be a sign of His return, "There will be great earthquakes in various places, famines, pestilences, and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven" Luke 21:11.  
 
Source:  www.dlindquist.com