No, you aren’t going crazy if you felt your Boston apartment shake this morning! After a rainy week thanks to the Nor’easter, New Englanders were impacted by severe weather events once again thanks to yes, an actual earthquake that occured
The earthquake, a rarity on this side of the U.S., struck Lebanon, New Jersey around 10 a.m. this morning (April 5). Though 266 miles from Boston, the shakes were felt here — along with New York City, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.
Did Boston just have an earthquake?
Yes, Boston felt the effects of the 4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook Lebanon, New Jersey. 42 million people across the East Coast felt the quake, and although Boston was towards the outside of the radius, it had a noticeable rattling around 10:23 AM on Friday, April 5.
Has Boston ever had an earthquake before?
The most notable Boston-area earthquake is the 1755 Cape Ann earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3. In the past century, there have been three other earthquakes in Massachusetts with a magnitude exceeding 3.
Is this the worst earthquake Boston has ever had?
The largest earthquake in Massachusetts history took place on Cape Ann. The 6.3 magnitude earthquake occurred in 1755. About 39 miles from Boston, the effects of the Cape Ann earthquake were felt in Boston. However, the 4.8 magnitude is one of the largest in New Jersey history, since 1938.
What was the magnitude of Boston’s earthquake?
The earthquake had a magnitude of 4.8. Officials say aftershocks are still possible, so stay safe.
What should you do in an earthquake?
The CDC offers tips on how to keep yourself safe depending on your surroundings during an earthquake.
- If indoors: Drop to your hands and knees, Cover your head and neck underneath a table or desk, Hold on to your shelter
- If outside: stay outside and get as far away as possible from anything that could fall, Get and stay low once you’re in a safe open area
- If driving: pull your car over to an area with no overpasses, poles, or overhead wires; Brake your car and wait
Find more in-depth guidelines on how to protect yourself during an earthquake from the CDC.