A rare seismic event rumbled through the northeast United States, leaving residents from Philadelphia to New York City startled but largely unharmed. Here’s what you need to know about the earthquake and its aftermath.

The Quake: Magnitude 4.8 Centered in New Jersey

The seismic activity began with a 4.8-magnitude earthquake centered near Whitehouse Station in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, at 10:23 a.m. A magnitude 4.0 aftershock followed later in the evening near Gladstone, New Jersey. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recorded additional aftershocks, with more than 42 million people potentially feeling the tremors.

Response and Impact

New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zachary Iscol addressed the situation, highlighting the city’s response to the earthquake and its aftershocks. Governor Kathy Hochul noted the rarity of such events, stating that an earthquake of this magnitude hadn’t been felt in New York since 2011. Reports of shaking came from various locations, including the NEWS.ORG 5 NY newsroom and surrounding areas like Queens and Long Island, as well as Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Public Reaction

New Yorkers, known for their resilience, expressed surprise at the earthquake. Despite its intensity for the region, many compared it to seismic events in other parts of the world, noting its relatively mild impact. Steve Holler, an associate professor of physics and engineering at Fordham University, provided context, explaining the comparative strength of earthquakes in different regions.

Understanding Earthquakes

Questions arose about the mechanics of earthquakes, prompting discussions with experts like geophysicists from the USGS. The unique geology of the East Coast means earthquakes can be felt over broader areas compared to their western counterparts. Despite the tremors, initial reports indicated no significant damage, with officials continuing to monitor the situation.

Transportation Disruptions

The earthquake caused temporary disruptions to transportation infrastructure. Flight delays were reported at airports, including JFK and Newark, while traffic slowdowns affected major bridges and tunnels. Rail services experienced delays, and Amtrak implemented speed restrictions along the Northeast Corridor.

Preparing for the Future

While destructive earthquakes are less common on the East Coast compared to the West, historical records show significant events have occurred. Experts emphasize the importance of preparedness, citing the unpredictability of earthquakes and the potential for damage. The city’s earthquake hazard is considered moderate, raising concerns about future seismic activity.

The recent earthquake serves as a reminder of the importance of readiness and vigilance in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters.

[Download The Local News App to stay informed about local events and emergencies.]

Sources:

• U.S. Geological Survey
• NEWS.ORG 5 NY
• New York City Emergency Management
• Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office
• The Local News App

<a href=”https://www.fox5ny.com/news/earthquake-reported-in-nyc”>Source</a>