A significant earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 4.8 shook parts of New Jersey on Friday morning, causing tremors felt throughout the greater New York City area.
Tremors Felt Across New York City, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut
Around 10:20 am, residents in New York City, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut reported feeling buildings shaking as the ground quivered beneath them.
USGS Confirms Earthquake Near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey
Shortly after reports of tremors, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that a 4.7 to 4.8-magnitude earthquake occurred near Whitehouse Station in New Jersey.
Details of the Earthquake
The earthquake’s epicenter was approximately 4.7 miles deep. While earthquakes are typically measured based on magnitude and intensity, seismologists emphasize the importance of the Moment Magnitude scale over the outdated Richter scale.
Moment Magnitude Scale Provides Reliable Estimate
Unlike the Richter scale, which measures only the largest amplitude on the recording, the Moment Magnitude scale combines multiple factors to create a more accurate estimate of earthquake size, including body waves, surface waves, and Richter scale classifications.
