A small 3.0-magnitude earthquake struck Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, on Saturday night, briefly shaking parts of the Tri-State Area and prompting a wave of reports from residents in New York and Connecticut.
What happened?
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at 10:23 p.m. on August 2 and was centered near Hasbrouck Heights in Bergen County.
- Magnitude: 3.0
- Epicenter: Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
- Depth: Estimated shallow depth (not formally confirmed)
- Felt areas: Parts of New Jersey, New York City, Long Island, and Connecticut
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage, but many residents took to social media describing brief swaying, trembling floors, and shaking light fixtures.
How rare are earthquakes in New Jersey?
While earthquakes are uncommon in the Northeast, the region does have active fault lines, including the Ramapo Fault, which runs through parts of New Jersey.
USGS seismologist Xan Davidson explained:
“We would not expect there to be a lot of damage from a magnitude 3.0… Earthquakes do happen here, but it’s not something that happens frequently.”
Just last year, a magnitude 4.8 earthquake shook parts of the same region, centered near Tewksbury, NJ. That quake was nearly 20 times stronger than Saturday night’s tremor, which explains why it was more widely felt.
Should residents be concerned?
The USGS has advised that aftershocks are possible in the hours or days following the quake, although no significant follow-up tremors have been confirmed.
Davidson reassured residents:
“I wouldn’t be concerned with a three. You might feel a brief jolt, but this is not something that typically causes structural damage.”
Earthquake preparedness in the Tri-State
While larger earthquakes are unlikely in the region, experts recommend basic earthquake preparedness:
- Secure heavy objects to walls or floors
- Know safe spots indoors (under sturdy tables, away from windows)
- Keep a basic emergency kit available
Social media reaction
The incident quickly made waves on social media, with users from Brooklyn to Stamford posting reactions. Even the Empire State Building’s official X account chimed in, posting:
“I AM FINE.”
What happens next?
Authorities, including New York City Emergency Management, reported no major impacts from the tremor. The USGS will continue monitoring for any aftershocks or seismic activity in the region.
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