An earthquake that happened in Tewksbury Township in New Jersey was felt through the city and in Brooklyn around 10:30 am this morning.
The earthquake, measuring 4.8 magnitude and lasting 20 seconds, hit six miles east of Califon, N.J. at around 10:23 am, and was the biggest earthquake since 1884, according to the Unites States Geological Survey (USGS).
Vibrations from the quake, which happened about 50 miles west of New York City, was felt all over the greater metropolitan area.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who noted that he did not feel the earthquake, said there were no reports of major impact during a noon press conference with city officials.
The New York City Emergency Alert system advises that aftershocks may be felt but to continue usual activities.
“I encourage all New Yorkers to check on your loved ones, and if you feel an aftershock, drop to the floor, cover your head and neck, and take cover under a solid piece of furniture, next to an interior wall, or in a doorway," the mayor said through a statement shortly after the earthquake was felt. "So far no major life safety issues reported, no reported infrastructure issues, but we will continue our inspections of critical infrastructure.”
Governor Kathy Hochul said she directed state agencies to survey bridges, roads, railways, major transmission lines and dams, and any other potentially vulnerable infrastructure to ensure they are safe.
Zach Iscol, Commissioner of New York City Emergency Management, said residents should call 311 to report any damage from the earthquake.
Iscol said if you are outside during an aftershock, New Yorkers should move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines. If you are driving, pull over to a safe location, he said during the press conference.
Department of Education Chancellor David Banks said there were no reports of injuries on students, teachers or staff at the public schools. Dismissal will occur as normal and parents do not need to pick up their children early from school, he added.
So far, the subway and train lines, as well as the bridges and tunnels operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, have not sustained any damages after their initial inspections. MTA Chairman Janno Leiber said there will be further inspections, however.
Matt Ketschke, President of Consolidated Edison Company of New York urged anyone smelling gas to contact their utility provider, while James Oddo, the Commissioner of the Department of Buildings urged construction companies to do a thorough inspection at all operating sites.
Earthquakes in the eastern U.S. are infrequent but not unexpected. Since 1950, 40 other earthquakes of magnitude 3 and larger have occurred within 250 km of today’s earthquake. In that time range, today's earthquake is the largest, according to USGS.
