BREAKING NEWS: Earthquake rumbles through NY Metro area, Westchester, Fairfield: VIDEO

VIDEO FROM CNN NEWSOURCE

An earthquake that measured between Magnitude 4.7 and 4.8 has taken place in the New York Metro area. It was felt throughout the area, including in Westchester and Fairfield. The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake occurred at 10:23 a.m. The quake lasted for about 10 seconds. Buildings shook and there was a loud rumbling noise. A trembling could be felt under foot and rattling noises were made by objects on shelves.

Gov Kathy Hochul reported that the New York area airports had ground stops in effect to suspend all flights while they were being checked for damage. Airport operations were being restored as of noontime. She said that the White House has offered any assistance necessary. Hochul warned people to use caution if there are aftershocks and be sure they are properly supported to avoid being thrown to the ground.

A state agency reported receiving a report of a gas leak in Rockland County that was attributed to the earthquake.

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said there were no injuries or damage reported in the city. The city’s public school system reported that the school buildings were checked for damage and no issues were found.

“We are working closely with the City of Yonkers to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and faculty,” the school system said. “Our Facilities Department has confirmed that, based on visual inspections, all our school buildings retain structural integrity, there are no leaks, breaches etc., and all requisite systems are fully online.”

The quake was centered near Lebanon, New Jersey. There were immediate reports that it could be felt from Pennsylvania through West Haven, Connecticut. Additional reports indicated that people in Baltimore also felt the tremor. There were no immediate reports of injuries. On May 19 of last year, a 2.2 magnitude earthquake hit Westchester. That quake was centered around Yonkers and Hastings-on-Hudson.

The Business Journal was told by an individual in Hicksville who has experienced numerous minor earthquakes in California that what was felt this morning was fairly strong and lengthy compared with others he has experienced.

Police in New York City reported receiving emergency calls from all five boroughs. Police in New Jersey reported that at least three buildings were damaged. The Holland Tunnel was closed in both directions in order to allow the Port Authority to check for damage. When none was found, the tunnel was reopened.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “While we are still checking in with County Departments and municipalities, at this time we have received no reports of damage. Holtec (the company decommissioning the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant) is reporting no damage as well as ConEdison, and the electrical grid and Department of Environmental Facilities (DEF) plants. Residents should check for gas or water leaks, or any structural damage to their homes. Airport operations are continuing uninterrupted.

“Understandably, this is an unnerving experience, but Westchester County appears to have no ongoing emergencies due to the earthquake. While the earthquake was prolonged and noticeable, it is not dissimilar to what we have experienced in the past with other earthquakes. The Westchester County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will remain activated as a precaution, and provide updates as needed. As aftershocks are common following an earthquake, residents are advised to stay alert.”