A minor earthquake, measuring 2.4 on the Richter scale, shook New Jersey on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor occurred at 3:42 p.m. Eastern, approximately 4 miles northeast of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, or around 35 miles west of Manhattan. It's important to note that while the epicenter was in New Jersey, the earthquake was felt in areas beyond the map's boundaries, as the USGS defines a 3 or higher shake intensity as 'weak'.
Seismologists are currently reviewing the data and may adjust the reported magnitude. Additionally, the shake-severity map could be updated based on further information collected about the earthquake. The USGS uses the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale to categorize shaking, and their maps and charts include aftershocks within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. As of 3:59 p.m. Eastern on January 30, the shake data was recorded, and the aftershocks data was available by 4:12 p.m. Eastern.
This event serves as a reminder of the potential for earthquakes in unexpected locations, even in areas not typically associated with seismic activity. It also highlights the importance of accurate and up-to-date data in earthquake monitoring and research.
