The U.S Geological Survey has announced that a 4.8-magnitude earthquake struck close to New York City on Friday morning. The incident had shaken buildings up and down the East Coast and greatly startled residents in an area that hardly experiences notable seismic activity.
The quake’s epicenter was in Tewksbury in central New Jersey, estimated to be 64 kilometers west of New York City and had occurred just after 10:20 a.m. ET (14:20 GMT) at a depth of 4.7 kilometers (2.9 miles), according to the USGS said.
As at the time of filing this report, no great damage has been reported, but the New York Governor, Kathy Hochul had warned that there was the possibility of aftershocks at a news conference.
Engineering teams have been seen inspecting roads and bridges.
The New York City Mayor, Eric Adams had told city residents to take cover under furniture, in a doorway or next to an interior wall if they feel any aftershocks.
President Joe Biden had spoke with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy about the earthquake, reassuring that his administration will provide assistance if needed.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, flights were held at area airports but they soon resumed by 12:30 p.m., according to a statement by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Friday’s tremor is reported to be the largest felt in the city since 2011’s 5.8-magnitude earthquake in Virginia prompted evacuations of City Hall and other buildings and caused significant damage in Washington.
