Friday morning took an unexpected turn for residents across the Northeast as we experienced the uncommon phenomenon of an earthquake.

What initially seemed like a figment of the imagination quickly turned into a reality for many, as reports of a significant seismic event centered in Lebanon, New Jersey flooded in. The quake, measuring a preliminary magnitude of 4.8, sent ripples across the region, reaching as far north as near the Vermont border.

Eyewitness Accounts

As the ground rumbled and buildings trembled, individuals throughout the affected areas took to various platforms to share their experiences. Social media platforms, like Facebook, enabled people to connect and share their encounters with the earthquake. Wes, a Norwich resident, described feeling the quake while comfortably situated on his couch. Catherine, in Windsor, and Dorene, in Little Meadows, PA, confirmed the tremors, describing their surprising intensity. Christine in Conklin and Katie in Johnson City also reported feeling the seismic activity. Each account added another layer of confirmation to the growing realization that this was not a mere coincidence or product of imagination.

Extent of the Earthquake

As reports flooded in from various locations, the true scale of the earthquake's impact began to emerge. Albany, approximately 150 miles north of the epicenter, experienced a substantial shake, followed by several sizable aftershocks that lasted for several minutes. Even the smaller towns of Norwich, Windsor, and Conklin felt the ground move beneath them. Yvonne, a resident of Newark Valley, noted that the quake started and stopped on two separate occasions.

Kathleen from Brooklyn described feeling the 4.8 magnitude earthquake centered in New Jersey, noting significant shaking and items being displaced. She also mentioned experiencing a couple of aftershocks. Paige, located near Syracuse in Canastota, confirmed feeling the earthquake's effects as did Louis from Lake George, which is approximately 230 miles from the epicenter, reported a strong sensation from the earthquake. Crystal from Finksburg, Maryland, reports feeling shaking and rattling at her home.

These multiple accounts highlighted the vast area affected and the seismic potency of the event.

Expert Confirmation

Venturing beyond eyewitness reports, experts corroborated the legitimacy of the earthquake. Howard Manges, Chief Meteorologist at WBNG in Binghamton, confirmed the occurrence of an earthquake in New Jersey. The preliminary magnitude of 4.8, which he termed significant for the region, underscored the notable nature of the seismic activity.

As experts continue their investigations and analysis, more precise details about the earthquake's origins, aftershocks, and potential impacts will be revealed.

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Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF

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