Massive Earthquake Rocks Lebanon, NJ, Sends Tremors Across Northeastern U.S.
In a seismic event that shook residents from Lebanon, New Jersey, to bustling New York City and beyond, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 4.8 struck the region on Friday morning, sparking widespread concern and prompting urgent inspections of critical infrastructure. The quake, centered near Lebanon, NJ, at approximately 10:23 a.m., marked one of the most significant seismic occurrences in the area in recent memory, leaving millions feeling the ground beneath them tremble.
Reports flooded in from across the Northeastern United States, with people as far as Washington D.C., Boston, and Philadelphia experiencing the effects of the earthquake. The temblor was felt over a wide area, with witnesses describing a sensation akin to an explosion or a sudden jolt, catching many off guard in their daily routines.
In the immediate aftermath, numerous aftershocks rattled nerves and further heightened concerns about potential damage. Authorities scrambled to assess the situation, inspecting bridges, tunnels, and airports for any signs of structural compromise. Flights were temporarily diverted or delayed, rail services slowed, and traffic snarled as officials worked to ensure public safety.
Despite the widespread alarm, there were no reports of major injuries or significant damage, a relief for many who braced for potential disaster. However, several homes in Newark, New Jersey, were evacuated due to structural concerns, underscoring the importance of swift and thorough inspections in the wake of such seismic events.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions in case of further aftershocks. Emergency response teams were on high alert, ready to spring into action should the need arise.
President Joe Biden, briefed on the earthquake, assured that federal resources stood ready to assist state and local authorities in their response efforts. The White House remained in close contact with officials on the ground, monitoring the situation closely.
While earthquakes on the East Coast are less common than their counterparts on the West Coast, Friday’s event served as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to such natural phenomena. As scientists continue to study the geological factors at play, residents are left to contemplate the unpredictability of the earth beneath their feet.