Was that an earthquake?
Answer
Yes. April 5, 2024 (10:20am) NOTE: Aftershocks may be felt.
NEW YORK - A strong earthquake rattled New York City and the surrounding area Friday morning.
It happened at approximately 10:20 a.m.
The quake - which the USGS has said was either 4.7 or 4.8 - was centered near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, 40 miles west of New York City, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
So far, there have been no reports of damage. [Source: CBSNews.com]
From NY1--Spectrum News - Earthquake centered near New York City rattles the Northeast
For official information, check out the report at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
What is an earthquake? An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused when two blocks of earth slip past each other beneath the surface. Although New York City does not sit on a major fault line, earthquakes can and have affected our area, and residents should be prepared.
What Should I Do During an Earthquake?
- Drop, Cover and Hold On:
- Drop to the floor.
- Cover your head and neck with your arms. Take additional cover under a solid piece of furniture or next to an interior wall. Do not get in a doorway as this does not provide protection from falling or flying objects and you likely will not be able to remain standing.
- Hold on to a sturdy piece of furniture and be prepared to move with it. Stay where you are until the shaking stops.
- If you use a wheelchair, try to get under a doorway or into an inside corner, lock the wheels and cover your head with your arms. Remove any items that are not securely attached to the wheelchair.
- If you are outside, go to an open area away from trees, telephone poles and buildings and stay there until the shaking stops.
- If you are unable to move from a bed or chair, protect yourself from falling objects by covering up with blankets and pillows.
[Source: https://www.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/earthquakes.page]