Northern New Jersey experienced a magnitude 3.0 earthquake on Saturday night, causing tremors in New York City.
In the early hours of August 2, 2023, at approximately 10:20 PM, an earthquake of magnitude 3.0 struck northern New Jersey. The epicentre of the quake was near Hasbrouck Heights, in Bergen County.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake, and no significant damage or injuries have been reported since. NYC Emergency Management (NYCEM) tweeted that the event had a minimal impact.
Operations continue as normal throughout the city, with no known issues affecting public services, transportation systems, traffic flow, or structural stability. People in New York, Westchester, and parts of Connecticut felt the tremors caused by the earthquake.
During an earthquake, it's crucial to prioritise safety. If you're inside a building, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture in the centre of the room, away from windows, and protect your head and neck with your arms. Hold on until the shaking stops. If you're outside, move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, chimneys, and other potential hazards.
Experts say earthquakes of this magnitude are not uncommon and rarely cause significant damage. However, they emphasise the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety protocols.
In urban environments, enforcing seismic design standards and retrofitting buildings for improved structural resilience are key preventive steps. Automatic systems to cut off gas and electricity during tremors help reduce secondary disaster risks. Education and preparedness drills in schools and workplaces are also vital to increase awareness and response readiness.
Common safety measures during an earthquake in urban areas include staying away from windows and exterior walls, taking shelter under sturdy furniture, and holding onto your shelter until shaking stops. After the shaking, avoid hazards like gas leaks, damaged electrical wires, and structural damage.
The MTA has also approved the light rail IBX, which will connect 17 subway lines between Brooklyn and Queens, providing a more robust transportation network for New York City residents.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams shared a message from the USGS on what to do during an earthquake, emphasising the importance of being informed and prepared. Early warning systems, if available, provide critical seconds of advance notice to take cover or shut down utilities.
In the aftermath of the recent 3.0 earthquake in northern New Jersey, it's a reminder for everyone to stay vigilant, follow safety protocols, and be prepared for future seismic activities.
On August 2, 2023, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported an earthquake that had minimal impact on NYC, but caused tremors in New York, Westchester, and parts of Connecticut. Despite the earthquake's weather-independent nature, it's crucial for urban dwellers to prioritize safety during such events, especially during future seismic activities.
