The skyline swayed a bit, but the subway just kept on rumbling.

Did you feel it, New York?

Here’s what we know about the biggest earthquake to hit the New York City area in 140 years:

  • The U.S. Geological Survey put the quake at 4.8 magnitude, in a category of severity that is felt but causes only minor damage and happens more than half a million times across the earth every year.
  • No major damage, injuries or deaths were reported in New York City so far, according to fire officials and Gov. Kathy Hochul.
  • The quake likely occurred five kilometers below the ground along the Ramapo Fault Line, which runs through northern New Jersey.
  • It was the biggest earthquake in the New York City area since the Earthquake of 1884, estimated at 5.0 magnitude and thought to have centered in Brooklyn.
  • New York’s airports and some Hudson River crossings were temporarily closed after the quake Friday.

Here’s immediate info to keep in mind:

What is the likelihood of aftershocks?

Update: NYC experienced an aftershock measured at 4.0 shortly after 6 p.m.

It’s in the realm of possibility, but not likely — and they almost certainly won’t be strong. The USGS says there is a 16% chance of aftershocks of about magnitude 4 in the next week, and a less than 1% chance of anything above magnitude 5.

An emergency alert from city officials warned that aftershocks were possible, but that New Yorkers “can continue usual activities.”

Mayor Eric Adams on Friday said “New Yorkers should go about their normal day.” Schools Chancellor David Banks said that school dismissal and after-school activities will continue as normal. There have been no impacts to the transit system, MTA officials said.

And don’t worry: There is very little chance of a tsunami in this level of quake.

How do I stay safe during and after a quake?

In the confusion of the moment, New Yorkers got some conflicting information Friday. Some city schools and workplaces emptied out of an abundance of caution, while an emergency alert — 30 minutes after the quake — suggested staying indoors.

The USGS says if you’re indoors during a quake, stay there. Then, move into a hallway or against an inside wall or get under a table or table and hold onto it. Move away from heavy, movable things like appliances as well as windows and fireplaces.

If you’re outdoors, get into the open away from buildings, chimneys or power lines.

How do I know if my building is damaged, and what do I do if it is?

Hochul on Friday said that if New Yorkers “hear strange sounds” in your home or building, you should leave because “you are safer outside.”

Checking your gas line in particular is important, or asking your management or super to check it if you don’t have access in your apartment building. If you smell gas, call 911 immediately.

Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo on Friday said those who are responsible for building management should pay attention to new issues in buildings in the next few days, particularly changes to scaffolding, sidewalk sheds and retaining walls.

“If you see something that is problematic, please call 311,” he said. The Department of Buildings will have extra staff on call this weekend to handle new issues that may crop up.
And if you see cracked walls, loose bricks or slanting features, read THE CITY’s guide on what to do about reporting and handling hazardous conditions in your building. Some issues are more dangerous than others, and in New York’s aging buildings, problems may have been present long before the ground started shaking.

Additional reporting by Claudia Irizarry-Aponte.