Minor Earthquake Strikes Near Sleepy Hollow, NY
On March 10, 2026, a 2.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Sleepy Hollow, Westchester County, NY, at approximately 10:17 a.m. The earthquake occurred at a depth of about 4.5 miles and was felt by more than 900 individuals who reported their experiences to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The tremors were felt in various locations, including the Bronx and Putnam County, approximately 20 miles north of New York City. Witnesses described the event with varying degrees of surprise and concern. Steve Frasene, who was in Pleasantville during the quake, recounted, “I was in Pleasantville, at physical therapy. And we had this big bang, and one of the therapists said ‘I think that was an earthquake.'” Another resident, Noemi Rosa, shared her experience, stating, “This morning I was laying in my bed, and I felt my bed shake.”
Despite the noticeable shaking, no damage reports have been received from Westchester’s Department of Emergency Services. The earthquake is classified as minor and is part of a pattern of small seismic events that occur in the region. The Ramapo Fault, which runs through southeastern New York, is known for producing such minor earthquakes, reminding residents of the area’s geological activity.
Ken Jenkins, a local official, remarked on the significance of the event, stating, “While this was a minor event, it is a reminder that Westchester County sits in a region where seismic activity can occur.” This sentiment reflects a broader understanding of the geological dynamics at play in the area, where the potential for tremors exists due to the underlying fault lines.
Historically, New York has experienced seismic activity, with the largest recorded earthquake being a 5.8 magnitude quake in 1944. While the Richter Scale measures earthquakes from 1 to 9, with 9 being the strongest, the recent event is classified as minor and rarely causes damage. The geological context of the region suggests that while such occurrences are uncommon, they are not entirely unexpected.
Lee Goldberg, a seismologist, noted the complexity of seismic waves, stating, “It just depends on how that reverberated through the hard crust of New Jersey and New York.” This highlights the intricate nature of seismic activity and how it can be felt across different areas, even if the epicenter is relatively small.
As residents process the experience, officials continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. While no significant aftershocks are anticipated, the event serves as a reminder of the geological realities of living in a region with known seismic activity. Observers will be watching for any further developments, but for now, the community is reassured by the absence of damage reports and the minor classification of the quake.
