"1.7 Magnitude Earthquake in Queens Linked to Roosevelt Island Explosions"
Early Tuesday, a minor 1.7 magnitude earthquake struck under Astoria, Queens, causing confusion and concern on Roosevelt Island as residents mistook the tremor for an explosion. The quake led to a significant FDNY response, but no damage, injuries, or power outages were reported. This event was notable as earthquakes are rare in New York City, with this being only the eighth since 1970. The USGS clarified that the unusual nature of the event for locals likely contributed to the initial confusion.