Residents of Queens were startled on Tuesday morning by an unexpected earthquake that shook the borough of Queens in New York City. The earthquake, measuring a magnitude of 1.7, originated in the neighborhood of Astoria at approximately 5:45 a.m., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The seismic activity occurred at a depth of 5 km.
Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or significant damage resulting from the earthquake. However, Roosevelt Island, situated in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, experienced some minor issues. Residents near the Roosevelt Island Bridge and Tram noticed power outages in a few buildings, as reported by New York ABC station WABC.
Despite these localized incidents, city officials reassured the public that everything was functioning normally by 11:30 a.m. Emergency response teams including the Department of Buildings (DOB), Fire Department of New York (FDNY), New York Police Department (NYPD), 311, Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), Consolidated Edison (Con Ed), and National Grid reported no injuries, no disruptions to transit, traffic, or utility services, and no structural stability concerns at the time.
One resident shared their experience, stating, “The elevators were out; we walked down. So much commotion going on. No one knew what was going on.” This sentiment highlights the surprise and confusion that many residents felt during the earthquake.
Earthquakes are relatively rare occurrences in New York City, especially compared to regions with more active fault lines. However, they can still happen, albeit with lesser intensity. The last notable earthquake in the city occurred in 2011, when a magnitude 5.8 earthquake centered in Virginia was felt in New York City and caused buildings to sway.
While a magnitude 1.7 earthquake may seem minor, it serves as a reminder that seismic activity can happen unexpectedly in any region. It is essential for residents to be aware of earthquake safety measures, such as taking cover under sturdy furniture, staying away from windows, and having emergency supplies readily available.
The U.S. Geological Survey and other agencies continue to monitor seismic activity in the region to ensure the safety of residents. In the event of future earthquakes, it is crucial for residents to stay informed through official channels and follow any instructions provided by local authorities.
Overall, the recent earthquake in Queens, New York City serves as a reminder that even in areas not typically associated with seismic activity, earthquakes can occur. While this event did not result in any significant damage or injuries, it is important for residents to remain prepared and informed about earthquake safety.