New York is not typically known for earthquakes, but recent events in 2024 have reminded residents that the ground can indeed shake beneath their feet. This article provides an overview of New York’s recent seismic activity, including the latest earthquakes and what you should know about the region’s earthquake history.
Recent Earthquakes in New York: What Happened in 2024?
New Yorkers experienced multiple earthquakes in 2024, a year that has seen more seismic activity than usual. The most significant event occurred on April 5th, when a 4.8 magnitude earthquake was felt across the entire northeast. This earthquake was centered near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, approximately 40 miles west of New York City. The quake was felt as far south as Baltimore and as far north as Maine, making it one of the most widely felt earthquakes in the region in recent years.
Details of the 2024 Earthquake:
- Magnitude: 4.8
- Location: Near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey
- Date: April 5, 2024
- Impact: Shaking felt from Washington D.C. to Maine; no major damage reported.
But this wasn’t the only earthquake New Yorkers experienced in 2024. Earlier in the year, on January 2, a much smaller earthquake was felt in Astoria, Queens. This 1.7 magnitude micro-earthquake was reported after residents flooded 911 dispatchers with calls about a “boom” and buildings rocking. Although low-intensity micro-earthquakes like this happen frequently, they are rarely felt.
Details of the January 2024 Earthquake:
- Magnitude: 1.7
- Location: Astoria, Queens
- Date: January 2, 2024
- Impact: A “boom” sound and minor building vibrations reported.
These recent quakes remind us that while New York is not in a highly active seismic zone, it is not immune to the occasional earthquake.
How Do These Earthquakes Compare to New York’s Seismic History?
The 2024 earthquakes, particularly the 4.8 magnitude event, brought back memories of a more significant earthquake that struck the East Coast on August 23, 2011. That earthquake, which had a magnitude of 5.8, was centered in Virginia but was felt strongly in New York City and across the entire eastern seaboard.
Notable Earthquakes in New York History:
- August 23, 2011, Virginia Earthquake
- Magnitude: 5.8
- Impact: Felt from Washington, D.C. to Boston; caused minor damage in New York City.
- The 1944 Massena Earthquake
- Magnitude: 5.8
- Location: Near Massena, on the New York-Canada border
- Impact: Significant damage to structures, one of the strongest earthquakes in the state’s history.
These events highlight that while major earthquakes are rare in New York, they are possible and can have widespread effects.
Why Do Earthquakes Happen in New York?
Earthquakes in New York are generally caused by the reactivation of ancient faults in the earth’s crust. Unlike the tectonic plate boundaries found in places like California, these faults are often remnants of old geologic processes that can still generate small to moderate quakes.
For more information on why earthquakes occur, visit the U.S. Geological Survey’s website.
What to Do During an Earthquake in New York
While the risk is relatively low, it’s important to know what to do if an earthquake occurs:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you feel the ground shaking, get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on until the shaking stops. Learn more about earthquake safety from the American Red Cross.
- Stay Indoors: It’s safer to remain inside where you’re protected from falling debris.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, food, and first aid supplies to be prepared for any disaster. Check out our guide to creating an earthquake emergency kit.
Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Prepared
The earthquakes in 2024, especially the one in January and the more recent one near New Jersey, are reminders that seismic activity can and does occur in New York. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that you’re ready for any unexpected tremors in the future.
For the latest updates on earthquake activity, follow the U.S. Geological Survey’s Earthquake Map and stay connected with local emergency management agencies.