After Earthquakes Shake Morris Communities, No Major Damage: Officials

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Residents around Morris County were rattled by a moderate earthquake on Friday morning that shook communities across the Eastern Seaboard, and multiple aftershocks later in the day.

County authorities said there were no reports of significant widespread damage or injuries in an update Friday afternoon, and that local police and the county 9-1-1 dispatch "fielded a significantly high volume of calls immediately following the event."

"While no major disruptions have been reported, it remains essential to stay informed and be ready for any further seismic activity," said officials with the Office of Emergency Management.

The United States Geological Survey confirmed that a magnitude 4.8 earthquake occurred at 10:23 a.m. Friday, one of the biggest earthquakes in state history.

Three more aftershocks ranging from 1.8 to 2.2 magnitude were reported near Morris, Hunterdon and Somerset counties between about 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. County officials advise residents to remain prepared for others.

The State of New Jersey and Morris County have activated their Emergency Operation Centers, to better coordinate resources and information.

"The USGS indicates that there is a chance of another aftershock with a magnitude of 3 or higher within a week of the initial impact," the OEM said. "So, residents should remain vigilant and prepared!"

The OEM has asked local emergency authorities to check on nursing homes, hospitals, senior communities, and other critical facilities to see if they need resources.

County offices closed for the day after a suspected gas leak at the administration and records building in Morristown. The County College of Morris also closed on Friday.

Some Morris County residents experienced another earthquake less than a month ago — a smaller, 2.2 magnitude quake was also confirmed on March 15.

Read more earthquake coverage from Morris County and around NJ —

• 4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Rocks NJ, PA, NYC
• Possible Gas Leak Evacuates Morris Co. Offices After Friday Quake
• 2 Aftershocks Detected Near Morris Co. After Friday Earthquake: USGS
• Multiple Aftershocks Hit NJ After 4.8 Magnitude Earthquake
• Quake Scares Kids, Employee Keeps Calm At Morris Co. Coffee Shop: VIDEO
• Here's What Caused Earthquake That Shook NJ: USGS