Letters From The Time Traveler: Get Ready For Unusual Weather Events

Dearest,

As you know, I can’t prevent bad things from happening. Some are just destiny.

The NYC/NJ Earthquake

Just this year, New York City experienced its first earthquake when I was traveling in the New England area.

The last 5.0 earthquake centered in New York City happened in 1884. The city also felt a 2.6-magnitude earthquake in 2001.

Earthquakes are rare in the New York City area, but there are several small fault lines under Manhattan and a major fault in New Jersey, called the Ramapo Fault.

How Likely Is a Major Earthquake in New York City-And Is the City Prepared for It?

Earthquakes in the eastern U.S. are felt over a MUCH bigger area than the West Coast.

The eastern U.S. contains sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. These include sandstone, shale, and limestone. For example, the Appalachian Mountains, consist largely of sedimentary rocks. Millions of years ago, they were subject to extreme pressures and temperatures. They’re denser and so shaking travels much farther. And with more destruction.

The East Coast is also in more danger from a big earthquake like 6.5+ for these additional reasons.

Population Density:

The higher population will lead to more damage, casualties, and disruption of services.

Building Codes Aren’t Like CA Standards:

Especially in New York City, building codes and infrastructure may not be up to code for earthquakes. Older buildings pre-1950 are more at stake vs. newer buildings.

The East Coast is Not Prepared

As only New Yorkers can do, the memes flooded social media. Even though the earthquake was technically in New Jersey (insert…