For a few seconds on Monday morning, life in New England was anything but still. At 10:22 a.m., a 3.8-magnitude earthquake struck near York Harbor, Maine, leaving people across nine states wondering, “Did the ground just move?” From Maine to Massachusetts and even down to Connecticut and New York, reports of shaking poured in. While earthquakes aren’t entirely unheard of in the region, the sudden jolt certainly gave people something to talk about over their morning coffee.
“It Felt Like a Truck Hit the House”
For many residents, the quake was a startling, and for some, confusing, moment. Homes rattled, windows shook, and some people assumed the noise was something far more mundane—until they realized it was an earthquake. “I honestly thought a big truck hit the house,” said Mary Cooper, a resident of Boston. “But then the floor started vibrating, and I knew it wasn’t that. It was over so quickly, but it left me on edge.” Even those who didn’t experience the quake directly were curious about all the commotion. Social media lit up with posts and questions like, “Did anyone else feel that?” and “What just happened?”
Where Did It Happen?
The earthquake’s epicenter was located near York Harbor, Maine, about 45 miles from Portland, and while it only registered a moderate magnitude of 3.8, the tremors traveled far and wide. Boston residents described noticeable shaking, while those further south in New York and Connecticut reported subtler vibrations.
No Damage, Just a Lot of Buzz
Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, but the quake served as a reminder that New England is not entirely immune to seismic activity. John Ebel, a senior scientist at Boston College’s Weston Observatory, pointed out that moderate earthquakes like this one happen in the region every few years. “It’s not super common, but it’s also not unusual for New England,” Ebel said. “When they do happen, they can feel like a much bigger event because they’re unexpected.”
How to Stay Safe in an Earthquake
While Monday’s quake caused no major harm, it’s always good to know what to do if one strikes. Here are some simple tips:
- Drop, Cover, Hold On: If you feel shaking, drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on.
- Stay Clear of Windows: Shattered glass can be dangerous.
- Check Your Surroundings: After the shaking stops, check for potential damage, especially to gas lines, walls, or ceilings.
A Reminder of Nature’s Surprises
Earthquakes may not be top of mind for New Englanders, but today’s tremor was a wake-up call—literally. While it didn’t cause any harm, it was enough to rattle nerves and remind everyone how unpredictable the earth can be.
For those who felt it, it’s a story they’ll be sharing for weeks: “Remember that time the ground shook on a random Monday morning?”