East Coast Earthquake of 2024. Natural Disaster Alert for the Tri-state Area.

On April 5th, 2024, residents in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and beyond experienced a moderate earthquake. A natural phenomenon that is unusual for the U.S. east coast. Measuring magnitude 4.8 on the Richter scale the widespread shaking fortunately only caused minor damage. Although the physical ramifications were negligible the psychological effect of the ground moving under one’s feet was met with trepidation. For many people, particularly near the epicenter, thoughts of natural disaster preparedness and response came to mind.

Importance of Ensuring Infrastructure Resilience in Densely Populated Urban Areas

The earthquake’s epicenter was located under Lebanon New Jersey, an area not known for quakes. The tremor demonstrated that even places not prone to upheaval are vulnerable. The east coast earthquake and its aftershocks revealed how a sudden, potentially disastrous event can happen. With zero warning, possible damage to buildings and infrastructure, and risk to public safety materialized. This unforeseen event highlights the importance of an emergency plan that addresses a range of catastrophic events.

East Coast Earthquakes versus West Coast Earthquakes

Earthquakes occur in all 50 states, however their characteristics differ greatly from east coast to west coast. Differences include frequency of occurrence, geology, and shaking intensity. Seismologists define a moderate earthquake as having a magnitude of 5.5 or higher. The west coast experiences two or three quakes of this intensity annually. Comparatively, the east coast has only experienced 20 quakes of magnitude 4.5 since 1950.

The reason for the contrast in occurrence reflects the impact of plate tectonics and differences in geology. Rock formations on the east coast are much older and harder than what is present on the west coast. As a result of efficient energy transmission, the seismic waves in the harder rock structures travel further before dissipating. Consequently, east coast earthquakes are felt a greater distance from the epicenter.

Another interesting fact of east coast geology is earthquake shockwaves travel at a higher frequency. The effect, faster shaking affects shorter structures more, potentially leading to damage.

Building Standards Revised for Earthquakes

Regardless of where you live in the United States local building standards continue to be revised that provide better structural resistance to earthquakes. Government officials understand that critical infrastructure must be protected to withstand natural disasters. Measures taken include retrofitting older structures and implementing newer designs for buildings, bridges, and the like.

At present, we cannot predict when an earthquake will happen. With technological advancements in seismology, satellite imagery, and computer modeling we are moving closer to the day when a warning system will be available.

Nature Keeps Knocking

The east coast earthquake is a reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness. Japan’s recent January earthquake is another example of how important preparedness is. Even though the tri-state earthquake wasn’t severe, it serves as a harbinger for what potentially looms on the horizon. It’s not if… but when!

Natural Disaster Emergency Kit Supplies – Earthquakes, Severe Weather

At EcoCentricNow LLC (ECN), we offer a diverse selection of lighting products that includes LED property lighting, handheld lighting, and batteries for emergency preparedness kits and everyday use. See our wide selection of merchandise that enhances safety during earthquakes and other natural disasters. Contact ECN to see how we can support your business or organization.

Reference
New York and beyond rattled by rare East Coast earthquake, BBC News Kayla Epstein & Graeme Baker
Earthquake shakes U.S. East Coast, NBC News, Denise Chow and Evan Bush
US East Coast earthquake rattles millions, but region escapes sweeping damage | AP News
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/at00sbh3yv/executive
https://ecocentricnow.com/shake-flashlight-demand-increases-after-japan-earthquake/