New York and Beyond Experience Rare Earthquake Tremors on East Coast
New York and other cities along the US East Coast are evaluating the aftermath of an unusual earthquake that caused landmarks to sway and roads to crack.
The magnitude-4.8 quake occurred around 10:23 local time near Lebanon, New Jersey, and its effects were felt across a wide region from Pennsylvania to Connecticut. Residents recounted experiencing a vigorous shaking that caused objects to move within their homes and resulted in wall damage.
Safety evaluations of infrastructure are currently underway as officials work to assess the impact of the seismic event.
Following the initial quake, at least six aftershocks were reported, with one registering a magnitude of 4.0, felt around 18:00 local time. The tremors were felt across various regions, with some areas experiencing significant rattling.
In New York City, the Statue of Liberty was observed swaying during the earthquake, while residents and workers reported feeling intense vibrations throughout the city’s boroughs. Many likened the sensation to that of a passing train, while others described rattling cupboards and fixtures.
Despite the dramatic nature of the earthquake, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York State assured that there were no major reports of damage or injuries. However, she cautioned about the possibility of aftershocks, which are considered normal but are not anticipated to cause additional harm.
In Union, New Jersey, residents described items falling from roofs and roads splitting due to the force of the shaking. Similarly, in New York City, residents expressed surprise and fear, as earthquakes are uncommon in the area.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the importance of conducting safety assessments, particularly regarding infrastructure such as the Hudson River tunnels. While no significant damage was reported, concerns lingered due to the age of certain structures.
Although earthquakes are rare on the East Coast, they are not unprecedented. Seismic activity has occurred in the region before, with notable incidents in 1983 and 2011. Experts suggest that Friday’s quake may have originated from an older fault line that experienced renewed activity due to tectonic plate movements. While the possibility of aftershocks remains, the likelihood of a significant event in the near future is low.
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