Earthquake with Preliminary Magnitude 4.8 Shakes New Jersey and New York
Over 42 Million People May Have Felt the Tremors
According to the Geological Survey
A magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck New Jersey and parts of New York on Friday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter of the quake was located in northern New Jersey, approximately 40 miles west of New York City. The quake occurred at 10:21 am Eastern Time, and tremors were felt as far away as Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Boston, Massachusetts.
The USGS estimates that over 42 million people may have felt the earthquake. So far, no major damage or injuries have been reported. However, authorities are urging residents in the affected areas to be vigilant and check their homes and businesses for any signs of damage. If you experience any damage, please report it to your local authorities.
Earthquakes are relatively common in the New York City area. In 2011, a magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck Virginia, causing significant damage to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. However, earthquakes of this size are still relatively rare, and the vast majority of quakes in the region are much smaller.
If you are concerned about earthquakes, there are several things you can do to prepare. First, make sure you have a plan in place for what to do in the event of an earthquake. This plan should include a meeting place for your family and a way to communicate with each other if phone lines are down. You should also have a supply of food, water, and other essential items on hand.
Second, make sure your home is earthquake-proofed. This can be done by securing heavy objects that could fall, such as bookcases and appliances. You should also make sure your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Finally, stay informed about earthquake risks in your area. The USGS website provides a wealth of information about earthquakes, including maps of earthquake faults and a list of recent earthquakes. By staying informed, you can be prepared for an earthquake and help keep yourself and your family safe.
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