A 4.8 magnitude earthquake centered in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, shook the Tri-State area, including Long Island, at 10:23 a.m. Friday. The quake, the strongest to hit the East Coast in a century, was felt as far away as Maryland and Maine. While no injuries or significant building damage were reported, the event triggered widespread concern and disruption.
Long Island Feels the Tremors: A Rare Occurrence
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 40 miles west of New York City, but its shallow depth of 2.9 miles amplified its impact, making it perceptible to an estimated 42 million people. On Long Island, residents reported feeling tremors, with some describing it as a slight vibration or a rumbling sensation. While some initially dismissed it as passing traffic or construction work, the widespread reports and subsequent alerts confirmed the seismic event.
Aftershocks and Ongoing Monitoring
A 4.0 magnitude aftershock struck the same area of New Jersey just before 6 p.m. Friday. While significantly deeper than the initial quake, it further underscored the region’s seismic activity. Experts from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) warn that aftershocks, though unpredictable, remain possible for the next week. There is a nearly 50% probability of an aftershock measuring 3.0 or higher.
A smaller 2.0 magnitude aftershock was also recorded in Bedminster, New Jersey, around 11:20 a.m., along with at least 12 other aftershocks registering 1.8 or higher. Authorities, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams, have directed teams to conduct damage assessments and ensure the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure.
Minimal Damage, Maximum Disruption
Despite the quake’s intensity, there were minimal reports of damage. Three homes in Newark experienced structural damage, leading to the relocation of ten families. In Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, near the epicenter, residents reported minor damage such as fallen pictures and decorative plates. The upper portion of the historic Col. John Taylor’s Grist Mill collapsed onto a roadway.
In New York City, the earthquake caused brief disruptions. Meetings at the United Nations were interrupted, and hour-long ground stops were implemented at JFK and Newark airports as a precautionary measure. Traffic through the Holland Tunnel was temporarily halted for inspections. The Department of Education reassured parents that students were safe in their classrooms, and dismissal proceeded as scheduled.
Earthquakes in the Northeast: A Historical Perspective
While earthquakes are relatively rare in the Northeast, historical records indicate that quakes with magnitudes near or above 5 have struck near New York City in the past. The most powerful quakes in the region occurred in 1737 and 1884, both measuring 5.2. Friday’s quake serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerability.
Looking Ahead
The 4.8 magnitude earthquake that rattled Long Island and the Tri-State area highlights the importance of preparedness. While the immediate impact was minimal, the event serves as a reminder to familiarize oneself with earthquake safety procedures, such as dropping to the floor and covering one’s neck during tremors. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess potential long-term effects.
