A geological survey agency reported that a 3.8 magnitude earthquake struck parts of New England. Videos showing the quake’s impact were shared on social media.
Residents across parts of New England felt a 3.8 magnitude earthquake Monday morning. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that it occurred at 10:22 a.m. local time (15:22 UTC), approximately 10 kilometers southeast of York Harbor, Maine.
Nearby areas affected included York Harbor, York Beach, and Wells Beach Station in Maine, as well as Portsmouth and Concord in New Hampshire, according to the USGS.
The York County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) confirmed on X, formerly Twitter, that a small earthquake struck the area and was felt throughout the county.
Reports of the quake extended beyond the immediate area. Fox Weather noted that the tremors were felt across a broad region, from Boston to southern New Hampshire and southwestern Maine.
Footage captured the quake’s impact in real-time. A webcam at the Stage Neck Inn overlooking York Harbor Beach showed the area visibly shaking. Boston 25 News described the sound of the quake as being “like a freight train.”
Meanwhile, CBS Boston shared a video showing a person in bed startled as the room abruptly shook, with a cat near the window also reacting to the tremor.
Amid reports of the quake, the New County EMA reassured residents that there was no risk. The team also urged residents to avoid calling emergency services unless it was an actual emergency to prevent overwhelming dispatch centers.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service reported no tsunami threat following the earthquake, easing concerns about additional hazards.
The USGS also reported that aftershocks are possible following the 3.8 magnitude earthquake. There is a 13% chance of an aftershock with a magnitude of 3.0 or higher within the next week, but the chances of stronger aftershocks, like magnitude 5.0 or greater, are less than 1%.
Aftershock activity usually decreases over time, but it can continue for weeks or even months. While scientists cannot predict the exact time or location of aftershocks, the forecast provides an estimate of what might happen in the affected area.
Officials reminded residents to stay prepared and practice earthquake safety. They advise using the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method if more tremors occur.
