On April 5, 2024, the Northeast, including New York City, New Jersey, and parts of Pennsylvania, experienced a significant disruption and concern among residents due to a rare 4.8 magnitude earthquake. The earthquake’s epicenter was close to Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, and its impact could be felt as far south as Washington, D.C., and as far north as Maine, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. Governor Kathy Hochul of New York described this earthquake as one of the largest to hit the East Coast in the past century.

The earthquake resulted in buildings shaking from Philadelphia to New Jersey, and from New York City to Connecticut and Westchester, New York. Its effects were even perceivable in Boston and Delaware, underlining the extensive reach of the tremor. Although earthquakes along the Atlantic Seaboard are not common, they are not unprecedented. The U.S. Geological Survey pointed out that while a magnitude 4.8 earthquake may not cause significant damage, it is strong enough to be distinctly felt, particularly in the eastern region where seismic waves travel more efficiently through the earth’s crust.

Preliminary 4.8 magnitude earthquake in New Jersey, felt in NYC (via USGS) pic.twitter.com/lMwNgyluNs

— Joel Franco (@OfficialJoelF) April 5, 2024

According to initial analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey, this earthquake was the most potent one with an epicenter in New Jersey since at least 1900. As a response to the earthquake, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport were temporarily halted to inspect the runways for any potential damage. These airports have now resumed their operations. Furthermore, vehicles at the Holland Tunnel connecting New Jersey and Manhattan were briefly stopped to allow for inspections to ensure the tunnel’s safety.

The earthquake’s impact was felt throughout New York, and while there were no initial reports of damage, residents were advised to stay calm and follow any emergency alerts. The New York City mayor’s office messaged residents with information about what to do in case of an aftershock, but many were confused by an emergency alert coming through on cell phones thirty minutes after the ground stopped shaking.

Despite the earthquake’s effects, there was a low likelihood of casualties and damage, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Residents reported various experiences, from feeling like there was a roller coaster under their houses to seeing walls shaking like a wave. The earthquake’s occurrence was a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity, although tremors in the city are not unheard of, and it is rare to experience any measuring over 4.5.

The 4.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the Northeast on April 5, 2024, was a significant event that affected a wide area, causing disruption and concern among residents. While the earthquake did not cause major damage, it served as a reminder of the region’s seismic activity and the importance of preparedness and awareness in the face of such events.