Image Source: ABC News
A small earthquake struck parts of the New York City area on Saturday night, leaving many residents momentarily shaken and confused. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the quake was located just northeast of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers.
Measuring at a magnitude of 3.0, the quake was relatively minor in scale, but reports of brief shaking were widespread throughout the region. Eyewitnesses described a variety of responses, with some residents jumping in confusion as the ground trembled beneath them.
Impact of the Earthquake NJ Residents Experienced
Video footage captured by residents displayed their immediate reactions. Gabby Atshan, who recorded the moment, can be heard exclaiming, “What was that?! Did something crash?” as she and her family dashed off the sofa in alarm. Other clips showed a startled dog awakening from its crate and a woman in the middle of a workout also reacting to the sudden shake.
WABC-TV reporter Darla Miles, who was at home during the quake, likened the sensation to “a car hitting the house,” adding, “there was this loud boom, and the home shook.” Following the quake, she and her family inspected their home for any damage, a concern echoed by many neighbors who gathered outside, asking, “Did you feel that?”
Community Response and Damage Reports
As residents were assessing potential damage, no serious injuries or substantial structural issues were reported by late Saturday evening. In a timely statement from New York City Emergency Management, officials confirmed that while tremors were felt in different parts of the city, there were no injuries reported.
Xan Davidson, a USGS analyst, reassured the public, stating, “We would not expect there to be a lot of damage. It would just be shaking.” Despite earthquakes being relatively rare on the East Coast, occurrences, albeit minor, have been documented in the past.
Looking Back at Recent Seismic Activity
This recent earthquake follows another rare event in April 2024, when a more powerful 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. That quake was noted for being notably strong for the region, shaking buildings from Philadelphia through New Jersey and into New York City.
According to Davidson, earthquakes do happen in this area, but they are not frequent. He acknowledged the widespread reports of the shaking from Saturday night, noting that such a range of responses is not unexpected. “There’s little cause for alarm,” he concluded.
What to Do During an Earthquake?
Residents may wonder about the best practices during such seismic events. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay calm: Take a moment to assess the situation.
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Get down on your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on to something sturdy.
- Stay indoors: If you’re indoors, remain there until the tremors stop.
- Avoid windows: Keep away from glass and heavy furniture that may fall.
Future Preparedness for Earthquake NJ
As New Jersey and New York continue to experience seismic activity, it is important for residents to remain informed and prepared. While the latest quake caused minimal disturbance, the unpredictability of natural events like these underscores the need for community resilience and preparedness.
FAQ
What magnitude was the earthquake in New Jersey?
The earthquake measured a magnitude of 3.0, with its epicenter located northeast of Hasbrouck Heights.
Was there any damage reported from the earthquake?
No significant injuries or structural damage have been reported following the tremor, according to local authorities.
How can residents prepare for future earthquakes?
Residents should familiarize themselves with earthquake safety protocols, such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” and ensure their homes have emergency plans in place.
Do earthquakes happen often in New Jersey?
Earthquakes are relatively rare in the East Coast; however, minor tremors have been documented periodically.