READINGTON, NJ – Residents of New Jersey and New York were startled Friday morning by the rumble and shake of a minor earthquake, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake, initially measured at a magnitude of 4.8, sent shockwaves through the region, prompting a flurry of responses from local and state officials.
John Ebel, a professor at the Weston Observatory, spoke on the potential for aftershocks and the fluctuating magnitude estimates common in the immediate aftermath of seismic events. The magnitude of the earthquake may be revised as further investigations are conducted.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy confirmed the seismic event, stating that the epicenter was near Readington in Hunterdon County. He announced the activation of the State Emergency Operations Center and urged residents to reserve 911 calls for genuine emergencies.
Across the state border, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also acknowledged the quake, noting its impact was felt in parts of his state. His team and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency are closely monitoring the situation and liaising with counties regarding potential damage.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul echoed her counterparts’ sentiments, assuring the public that updates would be provided throughout the day. New York City emergency services planned to alert residents via cell phone notifications Friday morning.
Social media was abuzz with accounts of the quake from residents across the region. Reports of tremors extended from Connecticut to as far north as Vermont. Norwalk, Connecticut resident, Lara Walsh, shared her experience of rattling shelves and a shaking house, initially mistaken for a furnace explosion or overhead plane.
New York’s Fire Department reported no initial damage. As this is an ongoing situation, further updates will be provided.