NEW YORK
Aftershocks in the New York City area could continue for a week after one of the East Coast's strongest earthquakes in 100 years.
The 4.8 magnitude earthquake centered in Readington Township, New Jersey rattled homes and buildings across the Northeast at 10:23 a.m. Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, including one measured at 3.8 almost seven and a half hours later. Seismologists expect more aftershocks over the next week, especially near the epicenter.
"While aftershocks are a concern for this first 24, 36, 72-hour period out to about a week, the entire East Coast is a seismically active area. But most of the earthquakes are relatively small," said Dax Soule, a seismologist and assistant professor at Queens College.
In Readington, which is approximately 45 miles west of New York City, a tree came crashing down and the upper portion of the Historic Grist Mill, built in 1760, collapsed after the initial jolt. Crews also responded to .
"The ground rumbled with the force of 10 freight trains roaring by simultaneously. It felt like the house jumped, and for a moment, confusion reigned as I wondered, 'What was that?'. Then, the shaking began," recounted Mary Heidersberger.
"It was a terrifying experience. The sound was akin to a bomb detonating," added Anne Owen.
Following the earthquake in Newark, New Jersey, power outages occurred and three homes were temporarily labeled as unsafe until inspectors deemed them habitable once more. Concerns arose that the foundations had shifted.
The earthquake was also held responsible for a water main break that resulted in water gushing into the middle of a street in Randolph, New Jersey.
"It was reminiscent of a fountain, a geyser of water spewing upwards," described Lisa Narcise.
Meanwhile, in New York City, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority reassured the public that bridges, tunnels, and subways remained structurally sound in the aftermath of the earthquake.
