Earthquake Rattles Bergen County Sends Shocks Across New Jersey and New York

Spotlight Alert | Local News — August 3, 2025

A 3.0 magnitude earthquake shook the quiet town of Hasbrouck Heights in Bergen County, New Jersey on Saturday night, startling residents across the Tri-State Area.

According to early data from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the tremor struck at 10:18 PM ET, originating approximately six miles underground. Although no injuries or property damage were reported, the quake was felt up to 60 miles away, with light shaking reaching into parts of New York City and even Connecticut.

📍 Where Was the Earthquake Felt?

Reports from both the USGS and local officials confirm that light tremors were experienced in:

• Bergen County

• Morris County

• Staten Island

• Westchester

• Brooklyn

• Northern Manhattan

• And portions of Connecticut

  
  

The NYC Office of Emergency Management (OEM) acknowledged the event on X (formerly Twitter), noting the possibility of additional aftershocks in the coming hours or days.

📉 Is a 3.0 Earthquake Dangerous?

USGS analyst Xan Davidson explained that while the East Coast is not known for frequent seismic activity, these minor earthquakes are not unheard of—and typically not dangerous.

“A magnitude 3.0 isn’t considered significant,” Davidson said. “You might see light fixtures sway, or feel a gentle jolt. But we wouldn’t expect damage.”

She added that the broad distance over which the quake was felt is common in East Coast events due to the way seismic waves travel through older, denser bedrock.

🕰️ A History of Quakes in the Tri-State Area

Though rare, this isn’t the first time New Jersey has felt the earth move:

• July 2025 – A 1.6 magnitude quake struck Morris Plains

• January 2025 – A 2.4 magnitude quake hit Bergen County

• April 2024 – A 4.8 magnitude quake rocked Readington Township, one of the largest on record for the East Coast in over a century

And the largest earthquake ever recorded in New Jersey? A 5.3 magnitude quake—way back in 1783.

🧠 Should You Be Concerned?

Experts say no, but it's smart to stay aware.

While Saturday night’s quake was minor, the USGS recommends residents remain alert for potential aftershocks, especially within the first 48 hours.

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