“I thought it was a big truck or something, but I definitely felt it,” said Mimi Bradley, the Development & Operations Manager for Radio Catskill, about the 4.8 magnitude earthquake that struck near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey.
The U.S. Geological Survey reported that a 4.8 magnitude earthquake hit the area, sending shockwaves through the region. The quake lasted approximately 20 seconds and occurred around 10:30 AM.
“We definitely felt a rumble in Sullivan County, but thankfully, we have no reports of damage thus far. Our 911 dispatchers have received a number of calls from people wondering what was going on. It’s a rare reminder that we actually do live above a seismically active region,” said Dan Hust, the Director of Communications for the Sullivan County Manager’s Office.
In response to the seismic activity, New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated, “My team is assessing the impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day.”
According to Hochul, President Biden has been informed of the earthquake and is “with his team, who are monitoring potential impacts. The White House is in touch with federal, state, and local officials as we learn more.”
Initial reports indicate that the quake did not result in any significant damage.
“We’re taking this extremely seriously, and here’s why. There is always the possibility of aftershocks,” said Gov. Hochul.
Furthermore, Gov. Hochul gave some tips to stay safe if that occurs.
“ People are encouraged to drop, and to cover, and to hold on. Drop to the floor, cover your neck, and hold on to something that is sturdy. Take caution near any damaged buildings.”
According to Amberly Jane Campbell, Assistant Deputy County Executive, “The Ulster County Department of Emergency Services is currently in contact with municipalities and will respond with information and resources as needed.”
Bryan Greenblatt, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Binghamton said, “We are seeing reports of people feeling the earthquake up in New York and Pennsylvania. We actually did not feel it here at the office, but some surrounding areas did.
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