A mild but clearly felt Hasbrouck Heights earthquake struck on Saturday night, shaking parts of New Jersey, New York City, and surrounding areas. The 3.0-magnitude quake hit around 10:18 p.m., with its epicenter located near Hasbrouck Heights in Bergen County. Residents across several boroughs reported feeling the jolt, though no injuries or major damage have been confirmed.
The quake occurred approximately 6 miles beneath the surface, a depth that allowed vibrations to travel efficiently throughout the region. Within minutes, social media platforms were flooded with reports from Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and even parts of Connecticut. Many described the sensation as a brief shaking or swaying of furniture and walls. While some initially mistook it for construction or a large vehicle passing, the U.S. Geological Survey quickly confirmed seismic activity.
Local officials, including emergency response teams, assessed neighborhoods for possible impacts but confirmed the area remains safe. Mayor Ron Kistner of Hasbrouck Heights assured the public that all services are operating normally and no damage to infrastructure has been identified.
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Quake specifics
According to early assessments, the Hasbrouck Heights earthquake was a shallow intraplate event. These types of quakes occur away from major tectonic boundaries and are relatively rare in the Northeast. However, when they do occur, the solid bedrock in the region can transmit seismic energy farther than in other parts of the country.
- Magnitude: 3.0
- Location: Near Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen County, NJ
- Time: 10:18 p.m. (local)
- Depth: 6.2 miles (10 km)
- Felt Areas: New York City, Northern New Jersey, parts of Connecticut
- Reported Damage: None
- Aftershocks: None reported as of now
Residents react
People from Manhattan to Montclair took to social media, many saying it was their first time feeling an earthquake. One resident in Staten Island posted that her dining room chandelier briefly swayed, while another in Hoboken reported a loud rumble followed by a short vibration.
Despite the minor nature of the tremor, the sudden jolt prompted anxiety in some, especially given recent seismic activity in the broader Northeast region. However, geologists emphasize that such quakes, while startling, are generally harmless at this magnitude.
Is this part of a larger trend?
While the region is not seismically active like California, New Jersey and New York do sit on ancient fault lines that occasionally release pressure. Saturday night’s event is not believed to be connected to any larger fault activity, and experts say it’s unlikely to signal a stronger quake to come.
The Hasbrouck Heights earthquake follows a series of low-magnitude tremors recorded earlier this year in different parts of New Jersey. Though unrelated, the cluster has increased public awareness of seismic risks in an area not known for earthquakes.
What to do if you felt the quake
If you experienced the quake, experts recommend checking your home for any small cracks in walls or foundation shifts, though serious damage is unlikely. It’s also a good opportunity to review emergency procedures, such as securing heavy furniture and knowing safe spots in your home like under sturdy tables or along interior walls.
Final thoughts
Saturday night’s Hasbrouck Heights earthquake may have been a mild tremor, but it was a memorable one for thousands across the Tri-State area. As authorities continue to monitor seismic activity in the region, residents are reminded that preparedness remains key—even in places where earthquakes are rare.
Have thoughts or personal experiences to share about the quake? Drop your comments below—we’d love to hear how it affected your area.
