On April 5, 2024, the northeast region of the United States experienced a rare 4.8 magnitude earthquake, centered in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. Several hours later, a 4.0 magnitude aftershock hit Gladstone, New Jersey, causing residents in the New York metro area to express disbelief over experiencing another earthquake. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) stated that the 4.8 quake was the strongest felt in the area since 1950, and confirmed that the 4.0 aftershock was related to the mainshock. Officials warned that more aftershocks could be expected in the following days.
USGS officials have predicted a 78 percent chance of additional 3.0 magnitude or larger aftershocks in the area within the next week, with a 16 percent chance of 4.0 or larger aftershocks. The likelihood of 5.0 or stronger earthquakes occurring in the region over the next week is only 2 percent. The USGS model also suggested a 1 in 6,000 chance of a massive 7.0 magnitude quake within the next week, increasing to 1 in 1,000 over the next year. Several smaller aftershocks, undetectable to most people, occurred following the 4.8 quake before the larger aftershock hit.
Gladstone, New Jersey, where the 4.0 magnitude aftershock occurred, is located approximately 9 miles from the epicenter of the 4.8 earthquake at Whitehouse Station. While the likelihood of a major earthquake in the northeast remains low, public officials have advised residents to be prepared for the possibility. Tips include securing furniture and hazardous chemicals, taking cover indoors during an earthquake, and moving into open areas if outside during a quake. New York’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services shared these guidelines to ensure safety in the event of future earthquakes.
In response to the earthquakes, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that a review of critical infrastructure was being carried out to assess any potential damage caused by the aftershock. Despite the seismic activity, there have been no reports of significant damage at this time. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and issue warnings to residents about the possibility of further aftershocks in the coming days. The USGS has provided insights into the nature of aftershocks and how they relate to the mainshock and potential future seismic events in the region.
