4.8 magnitude earthquake rattles New York city — third largest in 50 years

A 4.8 magnitude earthquake on Friday rattled residents of New York City, United States, sending tremors as far as Washington DC and New England.

It was the third largest earthquake recorded in the area in the last 50 years, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

The USGS said the 4.8 magnitude quake’s epicentre was in Tewksbury in central New Jersey, about 40 miles (64 kilometres) west of New York City and had a depth of 4.7 kilometres (2.9 miles).

No major damage or casualties were reported, but Kathy Hochul, New York governor, warned that aftershocks could follow.

“This is one of the largest earthquakes on the east coast to occur in the last century,” Hochul said.

“Everyone should continue to take this seriously in case of aftershocks”.

Flights were grounded at airports in New York and New Jersey in the aftermath of the earthquake but later resumed according to the federal aviation administration (FAA).

A statement issued by the White House said President Joe Biden spoke with Phil Murphy, governor of New Jersey, about the earthquake.

The White House said the administration will assist if needed.

The last major incident in the city was in 2011 when a 5.8-magnitude earthquake prompted evacuations and caused damage in Washington.

The tremor also comes days after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan, causing numerous buildings to collapse and extensive power disruptions.

It was the strongest quake to hit the island in 25 years.