A magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck near Lebanon, New Jersey, about 40 miles west of New York City, sending tremors across the metropolitan area on Friday morning. The quake, which occurred at 10:23 local time, was felt by millions of residents in New York, New Jersey, and surrounding states.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the state is taking the earthquake very seriously due to the potential for aftershocks, noting a 3% chance of magnitude 5 aftershocks in the next week. Her team is reviewing the state's infrastructure following the quake. Mayor Eric Adams advised New Yorkers to go about their normal day, assuring that first responders are working to ensure the city is safe.
Residents described the experience as unsettling. Charita Walcott from the Bronx said it felt "like a violent rumble that lasted about 30 seconds or so." In Brooklyn, a reporter noted items falling from shelves, including a whiskey bottle and spices. Danielle Guida, who was in a sauna at her Midtown Manhattan office, said the event triggered memories of 9/11, even among those too young to remember it.
The US Geological Survey highlighted the rarity of such events, noting that only three earthquakes of magnitude near or above 5 have struck near New York City in the past 300 years. The last earthquake above magnitude 5 in the area was in 1884. No severe damage has been reported, but officials continue to monitor the situation.
