4.7 Magnitude Quake Hits New York, New Jersey Metro Area

LEBANON, N.J. — A 4.7 magnitude earthquake shook New York City and much of New Jersey on Friday, with anecdotal reports suggesting the shaking was felt as far away as Boston, Philadelphia and Stamford, Connecticut.

The quake, which occurred at 10:23 a.m. was centered about eight miles northwest of Bridgewater, New Jersey.

Initially reported as a 4.8 magnitude earthquake, it was later rated a 4.7 magnitude quake by the U.S. Geological Survey.

So far there are no reports of damage.

In a post on the X social media platform, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said, “My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day.”

In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams said first responders were working to make sure New Yorkers were safe.

“At this point, we do not have any reports of major impacts or injuries,” he said.

Adams, who was scheduled to hold a press briefing on the earthquake at New York City Emergency Management Headquarters shortly after noon, nevertheless encouraged “all New Yorkers to check in on your loved ones.”

“If you feel an aftershock, drop to the floor, cover your head and neck, and take cover under a solid piece of furniture, next to an interior wall, or in a doorway,” the mayor said. 

“We will continue our inspections of critical infrastructure,” he added.

The New York Police Department also confirmed it had no immediate reports of damage, but sirens could be heard all over the city immediately after the quake.

Most reports involved rattling skyscraper windows, shaking furniture and apartment floors.

Several East Coast airports issued ground stops halting air traffic in the immediate aftermath.

According to the White House, President Joe Biden was briefed on the earthquake, and he will continue to be in touch with his team as he travels to Baltimore, Maryland, to monitor potential impacts.

“The White House will be in touch with federal, state and local officials as we learn more,” the administration said in a statement.

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