New York City Rocked by 4.8-Magnitude Earthquake
Buildings Swayed, No Reports of Significant Damage
April 5, 2024 | New York, NY
A 4.8-magnitude earthquake shook buildings across the New York City region shortly after 10:20 a.m. on Friday, April 5. The epicenter was located about 20 miles northwest of the city, in the Ramapo Mountains of New Jersey. There were no immediate reports of any significant damage or injuries.
The earthquake was felt as far away as Boston and Philadelphia. It caused buildings to sway in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey. The New York City Emergency Management Department reported that there were no structural damages reported at this time.
The earthquake was the strongest to hit the New York City area since 2011, when a 5.8-magnitude quake caused minor damage to some buildings. The largest earthquake ever recorded in the region was a 7.3-magnitude event in 1737, which caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is monitoring the situation and has issued a number of aftershock alerts. Aftershocks can occur for days, weeks, or even months after a major earthquake. Residents of the New York City area are advised to be prepared for additional shaking.
If you experience an earthquake, there are a few things you should do to stay safe:
- DROP to the ground, take COVER under a sturdy table or desk, and HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
- Stay away from windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
- If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Stay in the car and wait for the shaking to stop.