KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Residents across New Hampshire, including the Keene area, were shaken up Monday morning as a magnitude 3.9 earthquake struck off the coast of York Harbor, Maine. The tremor, recorded by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) at approximately 10:22 a.m., was centered about 7 miles southeast of York Harbor but was felt across several states, including New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
In Keene and surrounding areas, the earthquake sparked widespread reactions. “I was wondering what that was!” one Facebook user from Spofford posted. “Windows rattled here.” Another user from Dover described their experience in a mill building, saying, “The whole building shook, and stuff in my apartment shook.”
While earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively rare in New England compared to seismic hotspots out west, the USGS noted that tremors on the East Coast are often felt more widely due to the region’s geology. This was evident Monday as reports of shaking extended across multiple states.
This is not the first time New Hampshire residents have experienced seismic activity. Just last month, a smaller 2.1 magnitude earthquake was recorded near Milan, N.H. However, Monday’s quake was significantly stronger, making its presence known throughout the region.
Maine Emergency Management reported that the state averages about five earthquakes annually, although not all are strong enough to be widely felt. Officials reminded residents to reserve 911 calls for emergencies only, as earthquake-related inquiries can overwhelm dispatchers.
During an earthquake, if you are inside, you should drop, cover and hold on. If you are outside, you should move away from buildings and other items that can topple over.
New Hampshire 911 did not receive any calls about damage or injuries as of 10:45 a.m., according to a news release from the N.H. Department of Safety. Anyone concerned about possible structure damage to their home or business should contact their local fire department.
Officials reminded residents to reserve 911 calls for emergencies only, as earthquake-related inquiries can overwhelm dispatchers. Learn more about earthquake safety at ReadyNH.gov. Learn more about recent earthquakes on the USGS website.


