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Earthquake Shakes New England: A Rare Morning Tremor Leaves Boston Buzzing

Earthquake Shakes New England: A Rare Morning Tremor Leaves Boston Buzzing

Residents across Boston and the broader New England region woke up to a rare event Monday morning—a minor earthquake rippling through the area. While the quake caused no significant damage, it was powerful enough to spark surprise and conversations across social media.

A Jolt from the Coast

At 9:10 a.m., the U.S. Geological Survey recorded the earthquake as a magnitude 3.8, later revising it down from an initial estimate of 4.1. The epicenter was pinpointed near York Harbor, Maine, approximately 12 miles underground. For New England, where seismic activity is uncommon compared to regions like California, this tremor was a rare occurrence.

The quake’s vibrations were felt far and wide—from as far south as New Haven, Connecticut, to Albany, New York. Reports flooded in to the USGS’s “Did You Feel It?” survey, with residents describing the tremor as a low rumble, akin to a large truck passing by or, as one local put it, “a jumbo jet flying underground.”

Reactions Across the Region

In southern Maine, where the tremors were strongest, residents reported buildings and homes shaking briefly but noticeably. Justine Wenger, a freelance writer from Scarborough, Maine, recounted her experience:
“I was sitting at my desk texting a friend when I felt the house start to shake. At first, I thought it might be a truck passing by, but it felt heavier—almost substantial. I even went out on my deck, half expecting to see some kind of explosion.”

In Kennebunk, Maine, schools were inspected for potential damage, but no issues were found. Superintendent Terri Cooper assured parents via email that all district buildings and systems were operating normally.

Even at Boston Logan International Airport, operations proceeded without interruption. Local authorities across Maine and New Hampshire confirmed that 911 services received no earthquake-related emergency calls.

A Bartender’s Perspective: Guinness and Ground Shakes

In Boston, a bartender caught mid-pour added a touch of humor to the event. A video shared online captured the moment the tremor hit while he poured a glass of Guinness, showcasing the quake’s lighthearted impact on daily routines.

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How Rare Are Earthquakes in New England?

While earthquakes in the Northeast are rare compared to the western U.S., they are not unheard of. According to Maureen Long, chair of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Yale University, an earthquake of magnitude 3.8 or above occurs roughly once every five years in this region.

The last significant event in the area was a 4.8 magnitude earthquake centered in New Jersey in 2024, which caused vibrations felt in Boston. Historical records also point to a 4.7 magnitude quake near Hollis Center, Maine, in 2012, and a 5.1 magnitude tremor in upstate New York in 2002.

Interestingly, while less frequent, earthquakes in the eastern and central U.S. tend to be felt over a broader area compared to those in the west. This is due to the older and more rigid geological structures in these regions, which efficiently transmit seismic energy.

The USGS notes that small earthquakes are relatively common in New England, with the region experiencing an average of two minor tremors annually. However, larger events—those that residents can feel—remain infrequent but memorable occurrences.

Did You Feel It?

Social media quickly lit up with reactions, with many users expressing surprise and sharing their experiences. Some described the tremor as a long, steady rumble, while others mistook it for a nearby explosion or construction blast.

Pete Bouchard, a local meteorologist, tweeted, “Preliminary report is 4.1 magnitude off York Harbor, ME. WOW, that was wild. I was outside with the dog, and the trees were shuddering. It went on for several seconds. No apparent damage, though.”

Geological Insights

Seismologists explained that the earthquake’s modest magnitude and depth likely limited its potential for destruction. Still, events like these serve as reminders of the Earth’s dynamic nature, even in areas not traditionally associated with high seismic activity.

Dr. Long emphasized that while such quakes are not catastrophic, they highlight the need for preparedness. “Even in regions like New England, where earthquakes are rare, it’s essential to ensure that buildings and infrastructure can withstand occasional seismic activity,” she said.

Conclusion: A Shaking Reminder

Monday’s earthquake may not have caused destruction, but it left a lasting impression on New Englanders. For some, it was a reminder of the Earth’s unpredictable movements; for others, it was a curious, almost amusing event to recount over coffee.

As the tremor fades into memory, the region returns to its winter rhythm—until the next rare jolt reminds New Englanders of the hidden forces below their feet.

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