Did New Jersey Experience a Major Earthquake in 2025?

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Did New Jersey Experience a Major Earthquake in 2025?
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On the night of August 2, 2025, a sudden jolt shook parts of New Jersey, New York City, and even southern Connecticut. The reason was the 3.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Hasbrouck Heights in Bergen County just after 10:17 PM. While the US Geological Survey said that the New Jersey earthquake was not considered strong enough to cause a lot of damage, its location in a densely packed region made it more impactful.

The New Jersey earthquake in 2025 was enough to rattle nerves and furniture alike, especially since quakes like these aren’t all that common in the Northeast. Events like this remind us how unpredictable natural disasters can be, even in places that aren’t usually on the seismic radar. In emergencies, a Jackery Solar Generator can help keep essential appliances running, from communication tools and lighting to medical equipment. 

AI Takeaways

  • New Jersey experienced a 3.0 magnitude earthquake on August 2, 2025, with tremors felt across northern NJ, New York, and parts of Connecticut.
  • While no damage or injuries were reported by the New Jersey earthquake, the event served as a reminder that even mild earthquakes can cause widespread concern and temporary disruptions.
  • Jackery Solar Generators offer an essential home backup power solution during earthquakes in New Jersey, keeping critical appliances and communication devices running during outages or evacuations.
  • Why is earthquake preparedness crucial for New Jersey residents.
  • What should you carry in an earthquake emergency kit.

What Do We Know About the 3.0 Magnitude Earthquake that Hit New Jersey?

The 3.0 magnitude earthquake struck about 6 miles (10 kilometers) underground in Hasbrouck Heights at 10:17 PM, just 8 miles west of Central Park in Manhattan. Although the tremor lasted only a few seconds, it was felt widely. Residents across northern New Jersey, NYC's five boroughs, and even parts of Connecticut reported sudden jolts, a loud boom, or light shaking.

People described New Jersey's earthquake experience as a short but sharp shock, with some thinking it was an explosion or sonic boom. Fortunately, there were no injuries, structural damage, or disruptions caused to city operations. Emergency officials monitored aftershocks after the earthquake news but said any that might follow would be too minor to notice.

Are Earthquake Alerts and Early Warning Systems Active in New Jersey?

While New Jersey does not have a dedicated earthquake early warning system like those in Oregon, Washington, and California, there are active alert and early warning mechanisms that residents can benefit from, like the Android Earthquake Alerts system.

The USGS ShakeAlert system can detect and provide alerts for earthquakes, including those felt in New Jersey. This system is integrated with the Android Earthquake Alert system. This means Android users in New Jersey can receive real-time alerts if an earthquake is detected.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) also monitors seismic activity in real time through its “Did You Feel It” tool. Residents can report what they felt through USGS’s “Did You Feel It?” tool, which helps scientists track the extent and intensity of shaking in real-world terms.

What do the Earthquake Statistics Say About New Jersey?

New Jersey has experienced several notable earthquakes, including a magnitude 4.8 earthquake in April 2024 and a 3.0 earthquake in August 2025. The 2024 earthquake was the strongest in the region in over a century, felt by around 42 million people across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. It caused damage to dozens of buildings, water mains, and historical sites in both New Jersey and neighboring states. In fact, over 205 aftershocks carried on for weeks and even months after the initial earthquake. 

Year 

Magnitude 

Epicenter 

April 2024

4.8 

Tewksbury, New Jersey

August 2025

3.0

Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey

Why is Earthquake Preparedness Crucial for New Jersey Residents?

Earthquake preparedness is crucial for New Jersey residents due to the state's proximity to the Ramapo Fault line and the potential for damaging earthquakes. While New Jersey isn't known for frequent or large earthquakes like California, the Ramapo Fault Line is capable of producing tremors. A significant New Jersey earthquake could cause considerable damage to infrastructure and disrupt daily life. This means residents must stay prepared during the brief but unsettling moments of an earthquake.

What Government Guidance Exists for Earthquake Preparedness?

Many agencies like FEMA, Ready.gov, and local emergency management offices encourage residents to follow the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” protocol during an earthquake. This means dropping to the ground, taking cover under a table or desk, and holding on until the shaking stops.

Ready.gov

Ready.gov provides comprehensive information on earthquake preparedness, including safety measures like "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." If you are inside the house, stay indoors and do not run outside, and avoid doorways. If you are in bed, turn face down and cover the neck and head with a pillow. If you are traveling in a vehicle, pull over and stop to protect yourself right away.

NJ Office of Emergency Management

The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management focuses on overall disaster preparedness, including earthquakes. Their website provides general guidance on what to do before, during, and after a disaster, helping you and your family prepare for earthquakes in New Jersey.

General Disaster Preparedness

New Jersey residents are encouraged to develop a family disaster plan, including a communication plan, an emergency kit, and evacuation plans. These preparations are relevant for earthquakes as well as other potential disasters.

Is New Jersey in the Earthquake Band?

Yes, New Jersey is considered to be within a region where earthquakes can occur. However, it is not as seismically active as places like California. New Jersey has a fault line, the Ramapo Fault line, which can produce earthquakes and has experienced notable tremors, including a 4.8 magnitude earthquake in April 2024.

What Should You Carry in an Earthquake Emergency Kit?

A 72-hour emergency kit should include all the necessary supplies, such as food, safe water, a first aid kit, sanitation, communication tools, and a solar generator for survival during and after an earthquake. Here is a more detailed list according to USGS:

  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Medications
  • First Aid Kit and Handbook
  • Flashlights with Batteries and Extra Bulbs
  • Portable Radio
  • Water (At least a two-week supply)
  • Canned and Packaged Food
  • Camp Stove or Barbecue
  • Waterproof Plastic Bags
  • Crescent and Pipe Wrenches 

You will also need a solar generator or power station that can supply steady electricity to the critical appliances and devices. Jackery Solar Generators are portable and reliable battery backups that can power essential household or outdoor appliances, such as refrigerators, lights, radios, etc.

Jackery Solar Generators for Emergency Preparedness

In the midst of an earthquake, power outages can disrupt communication, safety systems, and even daily routines. That’s why a reliable solar generator like those from Jackery is invaluable for New Jersey residents. The combination of power stations and solar panels provides a dependable battery backup solution. It ensures you have the power you need when the grid goes down for critical devices, medical devices, or communication tools, to stay connected with loved ones during emergencies.

Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000 

The Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000 is a robust home battery backup solution designed for keeping your home running smoothly during an outage. It delivers ample power to support essential home appliances, ensuring that lights stay on, refrigeration continues, and your communication devices remain charged.

Appliances Running Time

  • Refrigerator (300W) = 8.1H
  • Lights (100W) = 21.4H
  • Radio (50W) = 36.3H
  • Induction Cooktop (1000W) = 2.6H
  • Coffee Maker (600W) = 4.2H
jackery solar generator homepower 3000 for new jersey earthquake preparedness

Who Should Buy This

If you are looking to secure a dependable home battery backup solution or maintain essential home functions during unexpected power outages,  you can consider the Jackery Solar Generator HomePower 3000.

Customer Review 
“What a great product at a great price! So small and portable and flexible. We're setting up our HomePower 3000 and solar panels to be an emergency backup system.” — Mike B.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is ideal for those moments when you need portable and efficient power on the move. Whether you are evacuating your home or heading to a safe location, it is lightweight and easy to transport while still delivering the energy necessary to charge your phone, run essential medical devices, or keep small appliances operating.

Appliances Running Time

  • Car Fridge (100W) = 7.6H
  • Lights (100W) = 7.6H
  • Radio (50W) = 13.2H
  • Blender (600W) = 1.4H
  • Coffee Maker (600W) = 1.4H
jackery solar generator 1000 v2 for new jersey earthquake preparedness

Who Should Buy This

If you need a portable and efficient battery backup, especially during evacuation or travel, you can consider the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2.

Customer Review 

“Glad I did my research and got this Jackery! Run my Starlink and electronics off this at the cabin when the power is shut off by the utility because of winds and fire risk. Really glad to have the solar panel as an option for charging.” — Brian Kearns.

Common Questions About New Jersey Earthquake

Is New Jersey in a seismic zone?

Yes, New Jersey has an active seismic zone. It is in the Ramapo Fault, which is among the few locations in the eastern USA with recurring seismic activity.

What US state has the most earthquakes?

According to the USGS, Alaska is the most earthquake-prone state in the US. It is one of the most seismically active regions in the world and experiences a magnitude 7 earthquake almost every year. 

What is the preparedness required during an earthquake?

The most crucial preparedness step during an earthquake is to Drop, Cover, and Hold On. This means immediately getting down on your hands and knees, covering your neck and head, and holding onto a sturdy object like a table or desk. But if no shelter is available, cover your head and neck with your arms and hands, and stay away from nearby windows and exterior walls. 

When was the last time New Jersey had an earthquake?

An earthquake rattled New Jersey on Saturday, August 2, 2025. It could be felt all the way through parts of New York City. The epicenter of the 3.0 magnitude tremor was in Hasbrouck Heights, Bergen County.

Is NJ prone to natural disasters?

Yes, New Jersey is prone to a variety of natural disasters. The state's location on the coast makes it vulnerable to hurricanes, coastal flooding, and storm surge.

Conclusion 

The earthquake hit Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, at a depth of about 6 miles. It was felt in a wide portion of the state, southern New York, and even in southern Connecticut. Residents must stay prepared and have all the essential supplies handy. Jackery Solar Generators are essential home backup solutions that can power critical appliances, such as radios, lights, mini-fridges, TVs, etc., for long hours.

Disclaimer:

The runtime mentioned for appliances powered by Jackery is for reference only. Actual runtime may vary under different conditions. Please refer to real-world performance for accurate results.

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