In a rare occurrence for the East Coast, a 4.0 magnitude aftershock was recorded Friday evening southwest of Gladstone, New Jersey, following a historic 4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook parts of the Northeast earlier in the day. The earthquake, felt in New Jersey, New York City, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, did not cause major damage, but generated concern about potential aftershocks. The US Geological Survey predicted smaller aftershocks in the coming week, with a 16% chance of a 4.0 magnitude or larger event before the Friday evening aftershock occurred.
After the aftershock, New York’s emergency notification system advised residents to stay indoors, but Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed on social media that there were no reports of significant damage at that time. The USGS warned that aftershocks will continue in the days and weeks ahead, with a 44% likelihood of at least one with a magnitude of 3.0 or greater in the next day. Despite more than 10 aftershocks reported following the initial earthquake, most have been between 1.8 to 2.2 magnitude and not likely to be felt by the population.
Earthquakes are rare on the East Coast but not unheard of, with a 4.8 magnitude quake being the largest in the eastern U.S. since 2020. The region’s dense, old rock formation allows seismic waves to travel further, affecting a larger population than on the West Coast, where faults limit the reach of earthquakes. More than 175,000 people reported feeling the Friday morning quake, which quickly became a cultural talking point, with New Yorkers joking about the delay in the emergency alert system’s notification. Social media buzzed with reactions, including a humorous post from the Empire State Building’s account reassuring followers that it was “fine.”
As the region braces for potential aftershocks, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared. With more aftershocks expected in the coming days and weeks, the USGS advises monitoring local emergency alerts and being aware of evacuation routes in case of more significant seismic activity. While earthquakes on the East Coast are infrequent, it is essential for residents to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being in the event of a natural disaster. As the situation continues to unfold, authorities will provide updates and guidance to help residents navigate the aftermath of the recent seismic events and prepare for any future occurrences.
