“Unprecedented: Magnitude 4.8 Earthquake Shakes New York City Region”
Image Source:- CP24
On Friday morning, a 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck near New York City, an event that surprised residents in an area not accustomed to significant seismic activity.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake’s epicenter was located in Tewksbury, central New Jersey, approximately 40 miles west of New York City. It occurred shortly after 10:20 a.m. ET at a depth of 4.7 kilometers.
Following the initial quake, a smaller aftershock with a magnitude of 4.0 was recorded by the USGS at 5:59 p.m. While no major damage was reported, engineering teams were dispatched to inspect roads and bridges for any structural issues.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul described the earthquake as one of the largest on the East Coast in the last century, while Mayor Eric Adams assured residents that no injuries had been reported. However, he advised them to take precautions in case of aftershocks, recommending seeking cover under furniture or in doorways.
Reports of the earthquake’s effects came from as far as Baltimore to Boston, with people describing rumbling and shaking. Charita Walcott, a resident in the Bronx, likened the experience to a “violent rumble” lasting about 30 seconds.
Mayor James Pittinger of Lebanon, New Jersey, near the epicenter, reported no injuries but noted that people were unsettled by the experience, with items falling off walls and shelves in his home office. President Joe Biden spoke with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, offering assistance if needed.
The earthquake interrupted proceedings at the United Nations, causing a moment of levity amidst serious discussions. Despite the disruption, flights at area airports resumed by midday, albeit with residual delays.
While smaller in magnitude compared to other seismic events, such as the 2011 earthquake in Virginia, Friday’s tremor was significant for the region, underscoring the importance of earthquake preparedness in areas not traditionally associated with such occurrences.
Author:- Apoorva Arora