Second 4.0 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes New Jersey in a Matter of Hours

New Jersey Shaken by 4.0 Magnitude Aftershock Following Earlier Earthquake

New Jersey was hit by a 4.0 magnitude aftershock just hours after a 4.8 magnitude earthquake rattled the state on Friday. The aftershock, which occurred just before 6 pm local time, hit the same area as the earlier quake, causing concern among residents and officials.

Governor Phil Murphy urged residents to follow emergency guidance and avoid calling 911 unless it was a true emergency. Governor Kathy Hochul of New York also confirmed the aftershock, stating that there were no reports of significant damage at the time.

The epicentre of the aftershock was located 7.4 miles northwest of Bridgewater, deeper than the initial quake at 5.6 miles deep. This depth may explain why the aftershock was not felt by as many people.

This was the second aftershock reported, with a smaller magnitude 2.0 aftershock reported earlier in Bedminster, New Jersey. The Federal Aviation Administration warned that the earthquakes could impact air traffic facilities in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Baltimore.

Despite the significant seismic activity, there were no reports of damages or injuries in the area. The New York Police Department confirmed that there were no incidents related to the earthquakes.

The United States Geological Survey reported that the initial 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, with a depth of 116.5 km. The aftershocks serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the importance of being prepared for such events.