UPDATE: Ground Stop Lifted at New York Airports
Officials have announced that flights have resumed in the New York City area following a temporary pause caused by the Friday morning earthquake.
Original Story:
This morning, a magnitude 4.8 earthquake was felt along the northeastern United States coast from Boston to Baltimore, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake hit at about 10:30 a.m. (EST).
The epicentre was just northeast of Lebanon, New Jersey, less than 50 miles west of New York City, according to the USGS.
CNBC reports, "Many incoming flights at major airports in and around New York City were being diverted from landing."
The FAA grounded aircraft at JFK Airport in Queens, New York, and Newark Liberty Airport in New Jersey.
The earthquake has caused delays and closures of transportation infrastructure in the region.
CNBC reports New Jersey Transit has announced that its commuter rail service may experience system-wide delays.
Meanwhile, the Port Authority for New York and New Jersey announced that the Holland Tunnel will be temporarily closed for inspection.
The X account for the Empire State Building posted: “I AM FINE.”
I AM FINE
— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) April 5, 2024
According to CNN, the air traffic control tower at Newark Liberty Airport was evacuated following the earthquake, and flights were put on hold while controllers moved to an alternate location. A controller confirmed over the radio frequency that no flights would be departing until further notice.
The FAA advised airlines to delay flights into New York City airports until 12:30 pm. (EST), while runways are inspected for damage.
USGS estimated that the quake was felt by more than 42 million people. USA Today says, "At least one aftershock is expected to take place within the next week."
Check back for updates on this developing story.
