Parts of New Jersey experienced a 2.2 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake, centred approximately 3.1 miles east of Califon in Hunterdon County, struck around 1:44 a.m.
This recent seismic activity follows a more significant event on April 5th, when a 4.8 magnitude earthquake shook New York City and the surrounding Tri-State area. The epicentre of the April earthquake was located near Whitehouse Station in Hunterdon County. A 2.0 magnitude aftershock was reported in nearby Bedminster about an hour later. A stronger 4.0 magnitude aftershock struck near Gladstone just before 6 p.m. that same day. Dozens of smaller aftershocks have been recorded since the initial April earthquake.
While earthquakes are less frequent on the East Coast compared to the West Coast due to the lack of a tectonic plate boundary, the region has a history of seismic events. The USGS reports that thirteen earthquakes with a magnitude of 4.5 or higher have occurred within 311 miles of the recent tremors since 1950. The most powerful earthquake in this period was a 5.8 magnitude quake in Mineral, Virginia, in 2011, which impacted a wide area from Georgia to Canada.
Aftershocks, smaller earthquakes following a larger mainshock, are common occurrences as the ground readjusts after the initial seismic event. These aftershocks can continue for hours, days, or even years after the main earthquake.
The April earthquake and its subsequent aftershocks have raised concerns about the vulnerability of New York City and the surrounding areas to larger earthquakes. While the East Coast is not situated on a tectonic plate boundary, the potential for significant seismic activity still exists.
For more detailed information and updates on earthquake activity, consult the USGS earthquake map. The map provides real-time data on earthquake locations, magnitudes, and other relevant information.