Video shows moment 3.0-magnitude earthquake rattles New Jersey, tremors felt in New York

NEW YORK CTY, NEW YORK: A rare earthquake rattled parts of New Jersey and New York City late on the night of August 2, startling residents and triggering a flurry of online reactions as shaky home videos went viral.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the 3.0-magnitude quake struck at 10.18 pm beneath Hasbrouck Heights at a depth of six miles, sending light but noticeable tremors across nearby counties and into Manhattan.

Though no damage or injuries were reported, authorities urged residents to stay alert and be prepared for possible aftershocks.

Shaking lights, startled pets and viral posts follow 

As tremors rippled through the region, New Yorkers took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their shock. Short clips captured hanging lamps swaying, ceiling fixtures shifting, and startled pets reacting to the sudden movement.

“That is the second earthquake I’ve felt in my life. I live in New York—I should not be feeling earthquakes,” one user wrote. 

While the quake was minor and caused no reported damage or injuries, it left residents in both New Jersey and New York visibly shaken.

“Several people went online to post about the tremors,” NYC Emergency Management noted, advising locals to check for hazards like falling debris or displaced household items.

Authorities urged residents to prepare for possible aftershocks, use 311 for non-emergencies, and reserve 911 for life-threatening situations. “No immediate protective action is needed unless you experienced damage,” they stated on social media.

No major impacts reported, but residents urged to stay alert 

The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was located near Hasbrouck Heights, less than eight miles west of Central Park.

NYC Emergency Management posted on X (formerly Twitter): “A magnitude 3.0 earthquake is reported to have occurred in or near New Jersey. Tremors may have been felt in parts of New York City. NYC Emergency Management is monitoring for impacts and coordinating with agency partners. Be prepared for possible aftershocks. These may follow minutes, hours, or even days after the initial quake. No immediate protective action is needed unless you experienced damage. If you felt shaking, check for hazards such as shifted items, falling debris, or cracks.”

Officials added, “No major impacts reported at this time. Updates will follow if conditions change.”

Though the quake caused no reported injuries or structural damage, it briefly unsettled residents across Bergen, Essex, and Morris counties, as well as parts of Manhattan—areas typically unaccustomed to seismic activity.

Authorities urged residents to report any non-emergency damage to 311 and to remain alert for potential aftershocks.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.