On the morning of Sunday, October 22, 2023, residents in Bergen County, New Jersey, experienced a 2.4 magnitude earthquake centered in Paramus. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the tremor occurred at approximately 9:32 a.m. local time. According to eyewitness accounts, many locals described the sensation as a ‘sharp jolt’ or ‘a light shake’. Mike Britec, a Paramus resident, noted, ‘I thought someone had slammed a door, but then it continued — definitely felt the ground move under my feet.’ The quake was shallow, striking at a depth of just 5.2 kilometers (about 3.2 miles), and while it was largely felt across northern New Jersey, there were no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries. USGS seismologist, Dr. John M. Barlow, emphasized, ‘While this is a low-magnitude earthquake, it serves as a reminder that our region is not entirely free from seismic activity.’ Residents from surrounding areas, including Hackensack and Teaneck, also reported feeling the tremors, underscoring the event’s reach. Emergency services were on standby, but officials stated there was no need for public action at this time. The last notable earthquake in this region was a modest 2.1 magnitude event in 2020, reminding locals of the unpredictable nature of geological activity.
Moderate Earthquake Rattles Paramus, New Jersey
