On a quiet Monday morning, an earthquake surprised residents from Boston to Portland, Maine, as a magnitude 3.8 quake struck close to York Harbor, about 7 miles southeast of the town. This unexpected tremor, which happened around 10:22 a.m., caused many to feel their homes shake as if something heavy had passed by. Although such earthquakes don’t happen frequently in this area, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reassured the public that tremors like this have occurred before along the Atlantic coast.
What Happened?
The earthquake was recorded at a depth of around 8 miles, a considerable distance beneath the surface but in a timely manner of just about 10 seconds. Initially, the USGS noted a slightly higher magnitude of 3.9, which was later adjusted. Tremors were detected well beyond the immediate vicinity, affecting people all across New England, including cities such as Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Worthington, Massachusetts.
How Did People React?
Many residents described the moment the earthquake struck. Some said it sounded like a “freight train” rushing through their neighborhoods. Reports came in from all six states in New England, and many shared their experiences on social media platforms, capturing the mix of shock and curiosity that followed. This quake served as a reminder of how connected we all are, even in surprising moments like these.
Where Was It Felt?
According to reports, the shaking was felt far and wide, not just near the epicenter. Here’s a closer look at where the tremors resonated:
| Location | Felt It? |
|---|---|
| Boston, Massachusetts | Yes |
| Portland, Maine | Yes |
| Waterbury, Vermont | Yes |
| Pittsfield, Maine | Yes |
| Worthington, Massachusetts | Yes |
Uncommon but Not Unheard Of
The USGS explained that while earthquakes like this one can be surprising for the New England region, they are not completely unusual. They happen from time to time, and understanding this helps people stay calm during such natural events. The Atlantic Seaboard has a different geological setup compared to places like California, where bigger quakes are more common, but it’s helpful for everyone to be aware of seismic activity.
Possible Precautions
Although an earthquake of this size does not require major warning systems or panic, residents are encouraged to prepare for the unexpected. Knowing the best actions to take during an earthquake can save lives and reduce panic. Here are a few tips:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Get down on your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over, find a sturdy piece of furniture to protect yourself, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay Indoors: If you are inside when the earthquake hits, remain there. Going outside can expose you to falling debris.
- Update Your Emergency Kit: It’s a great time to check your emergency preparedness supplies and make sure you are ready for any situation.
Residents are still encouraged to be prepared and stay informed through local weather and safety channels for updates on aftershocks or any necessary safety measures. While this earthquake may have caught many by surprise, it’s an opportunity for communities to strengthen their readiness for future natural events.
