An earthquake centered in New Jersey caused disruptions in travel operations in the New York City region on Friday morning. Ground stoppages were issued at John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens and at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey. The earthquake had a magnitude of either 4.7 or 4.8 and was centered near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, 40 miles west of New York City, according to the United States Geological Survey. Flights at Newark airport experienced average departure delays of 43 minutes, with inbound flights already airborne delayed by about an hour. Flights at LaGuardia airport in Queens were also delayed for staff to check for damage and clear debris.
The disruptions in travel operations are not expected to last long, with crews working to resume normal air traffic operations at the affected airports. New Jersey Transit also reported up to 20-minute delays across its entire rail service system, in both directions. NJ Transit was inspecting a bridge for damage to ensure safe train travel. The earthquake was felt throughout the Northeast region and caused ground stoppages at airports and delays in train services. CBS News’ Kris Van Cleave contributed reporting on the situation.
The earthquake, which occurred around 10:20 a.m. E.T., had significant impacts on air and rail travel in the New York City area. In addition to the ground stoppages at airports, delays were also experienced in train services as crews inspected infrastructure for damage. Flights at Newark and LaGuardia airports were delayed, with inbound flights being held until 12:30 p.m. in some cases. The disruptions caused inconvenience for travelers, but efforts were being made to resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
The earthquake’s epicenter near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, resulted in ground stoppages at New York City-area airports and delays in train services. While the magnitude of the earthquake was reported to be either 4.7 or 4.8, it was felt across a wide area, impacting travel operations in the region. Inbound flights at Newark airport were delayed by an hour, with outbound flights experiencing delays as well. LaGuardia airport also faced delays due to necessary checks for damage and debris clearance.
Despite the disruptions caused by the earthquake, travel authorities were working diligently to restore normal operations at the affected airports and train services. Crews were inspecting the infrastructure for any damage to ensure the safety of travelers. The delays and ground stoppages were expected to be temporary, with efforts being made to minimize inconvenience for passengers. The earthquake, while causing disruptions in travel operations, highlighted the importance of safety protocols and inspections in ensuring the well-being of travelers in the event of natural disasters. CBS News’ Megan Cerullo reported on the situation, providing updates on the impacts of the earthquake on travel operations in the New York City region.
