New York City experienced one of its most significant earthquakes in over a century on Friday, as a magnitude 4.8 quake shook skyscrapers and reverberated across the northeastern United States.
Governor Kathy Hochul described the event as one of the largest earthquakes to hit the East Coast in the past hundred years, highlighting its significance. According to Bloomberg, the quake, centered in Lebanon, New Jersey, marked the region’s strongest seismic activity since 1884, as reported by the US Geological Survey.
While there were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage, officials are closely monitoring the situation for potential aftershocks. President Joe Biden reassured the public, stating that he had spoken with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and confirmed that the situation was under control.
The tremors were felt as far north as Boston and as far south as Washington, D.C., indicating the widespread impact of the seismic activity. Residents described feeling their surroundings shake, with some comparing it to scenes from movies like Jurassic Park.
Despite initial confusion among New Yorkers, emergency alerts quickly confirmed the earthquake’s occurrence, prompting residents to take precautionary measures. While the New York City Police Department reported no damage, Mayor Eric Adams urged citizens to remain vigilant.
The Federal Aviation Administration temporarily halted flights at New York City airports, though operations have since resumed with potential delays expected throughout the day. Additionally, authorities conducted inspections on major transportation infrastructure such as the Holland Tunnel and issued warnings of possible delays on New Jersey Transit and Amtrak routes.
The seismic event, uncommon in the region, has left residents shaken and prompted reflections on preparedness for future natural disasters. As New Yorkers adapt to this unexpected occurrence, the earthquake serves as a reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature.