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Flashback: NYC Earthquake of 1884
By
Jen Carlson
Published Jan 21, 2010
Modified Jan 21, 2010
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By
Jen Carlson
Published Jan 21, 2010
Modified Jan 21, 2010
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This week EphemeralNY recalled the New York City earthquake of 1884. That's right, we're not immune to natural disasters. On August 10th of that year, an earthquake estimated to be at a magnitude of 5.5 hit — it was believed to be centered off Far Rockaway or Coney Island.
In an article from that time, there are reports from all over the city describing the scene. "Its duration was about ten seconds. The telegraph manager at Coney Island promptly asked for particulars of the 'explosion,' supposing that some oil refinery, powder mill or dynamite factory had blown up. A few minutes later, however, the fact became known there that the whole island had been thoroughly shaken by the vibrations." Locals were advised to stand outside of their houses, and police on the Brooklyn Bridge reported "the shock was distinctly felt there, and the great towers at either end oscillated visibly, while the bridge itself rocked as if struck by a hurricane."
The site also reminds us of a 2008 Columbia University study noting that the city has several fault lines (including one along 125th Street), and we're due for a quake in the 5.0 or higher range. In fact, seismologists say we should expect one every 100 years... and we're 30 years overdue (though there was a small one in 2001).
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Jen Carlson
Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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