Earthquake Strikes East Coast: USGS Records 4.8 Magnitude Temblor near New Jersey
An earthquake rattled the East Coast of the United States on Friday morning, sending shockwaves from Maryland to Maine. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake as a 4.8 magnitude temblor, with its epicenter near Lebanon, New Jersey. The seismic event occurred shortly before 10:30 a.m. ET.
This earthquake marks the most significant recorded seismic activity in the Northeast in over a decade, according to USGS records. Despite its intensity, there have been no immediate reports of major destruction or fatalities.
Local and regional officials have initiated inspections to assess the integrity of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure in the affected areas. James Pittinger, the mayor of Lebanon, New Jersey, described the earthquake as “the craziest thing I’ve ever experienced,” noting that while there have been no reports of significant damage, the shaking caused disruptions and objects to fall.
While a 4.8 magnitude earthquake is not classified as major, even minor seismic activity can lead to damage in regions unaccustomed to such events. New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that the quake was felt across the state and stated that assessments of impacts and damages are underway.
In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams assured residents that there were no reports of major injuries or infrastructure damage, encouraging people to continue with their daily activities.
The earthquake briefly impacted air and rail travel, with ground stops issued at Newark Liberty International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport. Public transit services, including the Port Authority Transit Corp. and New Jersey Transit, were temporarily suspended for inspections.
While earthquakes in the northeastern United States are rare, this event serves as a reminder of the region’s susceptibility to seismic activity. The last notable earthquake in New Jersey occurred in September 2020, with a magnitude of 3.1 in Freehold Township.
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Professor Frederik J. Simons, a geosciences expert at Princeton University, explained that the earthquake originated from a shallow fault system in New Jersey, causing shaking for approximately 35 seconds. He emphasized that older, denser rocks in the region amplify the effects of seismic events, leading to more pronounced shaking.
Despite the infrequency of earthquakes in the area, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential seismic activity in the future.
