shot-button
Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesh Chaturthi
Home > News > World News > Article > Earthquake hits US cities

Earthquake hits US cities

Updated on: 24 August,2011 09:05 AM IST  | 
Agencies |

An undersea quake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale Tuesday afternoon jolted several US cities, including Washington DC, where the authorities had to temporarily evacuate the White House, the Capitol Hill and other buildings, Xinhua reported. There was no immediate report of damage or casualties

Earthquake hits US cities

An undersea quake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale Tuesday afternoon jolted several US cities, including Washington DC, where the authorities had to temporarily evacuate the White House, the Capitol Hill and other buildings, Xinhua reported. There was no immediate report of damage or casualties.


The quake occurred at 1751 GMT and is being described as "one of the largest earthquakes on the east coast". The epicentre was located 134 km southwest of Washington D.C.


The US weather service has ruled out a tsunami.


The quake was felt in the New York City, North Carolina and as far as Toronto, Canada, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said.

Two nuclear reactors were taken off-line in Virginia, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) said.

"This is one of the largest earthquakes on the east coast in quite a while, in many decades at least," USGS spokeswoman Lucy Jones told CNN.

"It's not unprecedented. But it's one of the largest we have had there."

Telecommunication in some areas was briefly disrupted.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK