The bustling metropolis of New York City was jolted awake by a 4.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the northeastern region of the United States.
According to reports from the US Geological Survey, the seismic activity centered near Lebanon, New Jersey, sent tremors rippling across the densely populated New York City metropolitan area early Friday morning.
Local residents from the eastern shore to the nearby states of Connecticut and Massachusetts reported feeling the ground shake beneath them. Even as far as Boston, reports emerged of inhabitants sensing the quake's effects, highlighting the widespread impact of the seismic event.
Authorities swiftly sprang into action, with the New York Fire Department and Police Department closely monitoring the situation. Thankfully, initial assessments revealed no reports of casualties or significant damage.
Deputy Commissioner of Operations for the New York Police Department, Kaz Daughtry, reassured the public, stating, "While we do not have any reports of major impacts at this time, we're still assessing the impact."
New York Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed that the quake was felt throughout the state and assured that her team was actively assessing any potential damage. "My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day," Governor Hochul stated.
The sudden tremors brought back haunting memories of a similar earthquake that rattled the region on August 23, 2011, shocking millions from Georgia to Canada. With a magnitude of 5.8, it stands as the most powerful earthquake to strike the East Coast since World War II, with its epicenter in Virginia.
The timing of today's quake, just three weeks shy of the tenth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, evoked somber reflections for many New Yorkers. The 2011 earthquake not only shook the city but also caused fractures in national landmarks like the Washington Monument and prompted evacuations from the White House and Capitol.
