A Sudden Jolt: Earthquake Hits the East Coast
Residents of New Jersey and New York City experienced an unexpected tremor on Tuesday as a rare magnitude-4.8 earthquake struck near Lebanon, New Jersey. The United States Geological Survey pinpointed the epicenter, causing buildings to shake and communities to stir across the region.
UN Security Council Meeting on Gaza Interrupted
The unusual seismic activity even caused a brief interruption at the United Nations Security Council’s meeting in New York, focused on the situation in Gaza. “Is that an earthquake?” inquired Janti Soeripto of Save the Children, highlighting the sudden nature of the event which occurred around 10:20 local time and lasted approximately 20-30 seconds.
Social Media Buzz: Reports of Shaking Across the Coast
Social media was abuzz with reports from individuals feeling the quake from Philadelphia eastward to the coast. Despite the widespread sensation of the tremor, there have thankfully been no reports of significant damage. As a precaution, JFK and Newark airports momentarily paused flights to inspect runways for potential damage.
Residents Describe the Quake
In New York’s boroughs of Brooklyn and the Bronx, residents described a rattling of cupboards, doors, and fixtures. Charita Walcott from the Bronx likened the sensation to “being in a drum circle,” with a violent rumble lasting about half a minute. Another resident, caught off guard while in bed, recounted the startling experience of the entire apartment building shaking.
City and State Officials Assess Impact
New York City officials, including a representative from the Mayor’s office, Fabien Levy, announced they were assessing the tremor’s impact. Governor Kathy Hochul reassured the public that there had been no reports of major damage or injuries but cautioned the possibility of aftershocks following the quake.
