Rare Earthquake Rattles US Northeast, Centered Near New Jersey
New York, The Gulf Observer: A rare earthquake jolted the northeastern United States today, with tremors felt across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, stirring panic among residents and briefly disrupting routine activities.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake registered a magnitude of 4.8 and was centered just northeast of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. The seismic event occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m. local time in New York (15:20 GMT), sending vibrations through the region. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties.
The earthquake’s impact was particularly pronounced in New York City, where skyscrapers swayed and buildings shook, prompting concern among residents. The five boroughs of New York City – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx – experienced noticeable shaking, prompting precautionary measures.
The disruption caused by the earthquake even reached the United Nations Security Council meeting, where discussions on developments in Gaza were momentarily interrupted.
Responding swiftly to the seismic event, the New York City Emergency Management Department issued a general alert via phone to all residents, advising them to remain indoors and report any damage or injuries promptly. Witness accounts described scenes of people evacuating homes and workplaces in a state of panic, seeking refuge on the streets.
Initial reports suggest that the earthquake’s tremors were felt across a broad swath of the northeastern United States, extending from New York City to Philadelphia and even reaching the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.
As authorities continue to assess the situation, residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols. Despite the rarity of earthquakes in this region, today’s event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of geological phenomena and the importance of preparedness in the face of such occurrences.
