In a rare seismic event, the Northeast United States experienced one of its strongest earthquakes in a century, sending some concern across New York City. The 4.8 magnitude quake, centered in Readington Township, New Jersey, shook homes and buildings throughout the region at 10:23 a.m. last Friday.
The quake is the strongest New Jersey has seen in 240 years and the third largest recorded in the area in the last 50 years. The aftermath has left seismologists and residents alike on edge, with aftershocks expected to continue for up to a week.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the initial earthquake was followed by 32 aftershocks, with magnitudes ranging from minor to a notable 3.8, felt nearly seven and a half hours later. While the epicenter remained in New Jersey, the tremors were felt across the East Coast, prompting concerns for further seismic activity, especially in proximity to the epicenter.
Dax Soule, a seismologist and assistant professor at Queens College, emphasized the ongoing risk posed by aftershocks, particularly in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake. While there were no reported injuries or significant structural damage to infrastructure, ongoing inspections continue across the region to ensure safety.
Residents in the most affected areas recounted their experiences, with descriptions ranging from “it sounded like ten freight trains going at the same time” to “it sounded like something like a bomb had gone off.” In Newark, power outages and concerns over structural integrity left some homes temporarily evacuated.
Some questioned the effectiveness of New York City’s emergency response and criticized the delay in issuing alerts. However, officials note that the best was done given that there are many challenges to seismic preparedness in a region that is not traditionally associated with earthquakes.
Amidst the confusion, businesses have been quick to respond with humor, offering “I survived the New York City earthquake” merchandise. The X account for the Empire State Building posted: “I AM FINE.”
