By: Richard L. Smith
In an unsettling start to the day, a 4.8 magnitude earthquake struck the region of Hunterdon County, sending ripples of concern through much of the Tri-State area, including the City of Newark and surrounding areas.
According to Newark Public Safety Director Fritz Fragé, the seismic event occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. today.
Despite the epicenter being located over 30 miles away from Newark, near Califon, New Jersey, the city felt its effects, prompting immediate responses from local emergency services.
Fortunately, there have been no injuries reported in the wake of the earthquake.
However, the impact was significant enough to cause structural damage to buildings located on 7th Avenue, specifically numbers 313, 315, and 317.
Officials told RLS Media that Newark firefighters were swiftly dispatched to the scene following reports of the damage.
The incident led to the displacement of 10 families, which include 25 adults and three children. These residents have been relocated to safer locations as a precautionary measure.
In response to the earthquake, Newark officials have taken the step of closing all city buildings.
This includes City Hall and various Recreation Centers, underscoring the seriousness with which the city is taking the event.
Newark official said it is important to note, however, that the closure does not extend to police and fire facilities, nor does it affect emergency personnel who remain on duty to ensure public safety.
The city is now in the process of conducting thorough inspections of buildings to assess any potential damage that may not be immediately visible.
This includes checking for power outages and ensuring that infrastructure is safe and secure. The aim is to promptly address any issues that could pose a risk to residents and to facilitate a swift return to normalcy.
Today's earthquake serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters.
The effective response by Newark’s emergency services highlights the city's preparedness for such events.
As the community comes together to support those affected, the focus remains on safety and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.