A mild earthquake shook parts of New York City and New Jersey on Saturday evening, recording a magnitude of 3.0, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The USGS identified the epicentre just north of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, about 10 kilometres beneath the Earth’s surface, as reported by ABC News.
Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton addressed the event in a Facebook post, stating: “A 3.0 magnitude earthquake occurred in the Hasbrouck Heights area. Please do not be alarmed we’ve received no reports of damage or injuries so far.”
Meanwhile, the Bergen County Office of Emergency Management released a separate statement, confirming that local emergency services were aware of the tremor. Initial readings placed the magnitude slightly higher at 3.2.
USGS warns of aftershocks but minimises concern
Although the earthquake caused mild shaking, the USGS explained that such events rarely result in structural damage. Officials encouraged residents to remain aware of potential aftershocks, which could follow in the coming hours or days.
Speaking with ABC News New York, USGS analyst Xan Davidson clarified: “We don’t expect any real damage from a magnitude three. It’s more a matter of shaking than structural risk.”
In addition, Davidson pointed out that earthquakes occasionally occur in the region, though they remain relatively uncommon. He added, “There’s no real cause for concern with an event of this size.”
Recent seismic activity adds context
This latest tremor followed a stronger earthquake in April 2024, which registered a magnitude of 4.7. That earlier event affected a broader area, including parts of New Jersey, northern Pennsylvania, and western Connecticut.
Although moderate earthquakes are rare in the northeastern United States, they can often be felt over large distances due to the region’s dense rock formations.
Public reaction mixes surprise and confusion
Following Saturday’s quake, many residents took to social media to share their experiences. Most were surprised to discover that the vibration they felt came from an earthquake.
The Empire State Building’s official account on X (formerly Twitter) reassured the public with a brief post: “I am fine.”
One Facebook user from New Jersey commented: “We thought it was a huge truck going by the neighbourhood.”
Another added: “I assumed it was a Metro-North train passing.”
“I honestly didn’t know what I had felt until you told me,” one resident told The Jerusalem Post. “At first, I thought something had dropped inside my building.”
Local officials confirmed there were no injuries or property damage. They continue to monitor the area, but at this time, they have not issued any warnings or alerts.
As a precaution, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels in case further updates become necessary.
