why are there so few earthquakes in New York?

Answer 1

Most earthquakes occur near active plate boundaries, such as subduction zones, mid ocean ridges, or transform faults. The state of New York lies on a passive margin, thousand of miles form the nearest tectonic activity. Yet there are concerns about a hazardous earthquake occurring in the state of New York, even in New York City. But why?

The state of New York lies in an area containing numerous faults that are relatively inactive compared to the well-known fault systems of the San Andreas and Pacific regions. However, these faults are believed to still produce earthquakes. Since 1730 there have been over 400 earthquakes recorded in the state of New York, making it the state third highest in earthquake activity east if the Mississippi River. The list of recent earthquakes includes the magnitude 5.1 earthquake on April 20, 2002 in Plattsburgh, NY and the magnitude 2.4 earthquake on Jan 17 2001 in Manhattan, NY.

Answer 2

Earthquakes are caused by motion in the tectonic plates. New York doesn't sit over a fault, and isn't affected by tectonic movement.

Answer 3

because New York doesn't sit on the edge of a tectonic plate. earthquakes are caused by tectonic plates shifting and pushing against each other as they float on the sea of magma (lava) under the earth's crust. if there edge of the plate isn't nearby, there isn't much activity.

Answer 4

earthquakes are caused by the movement of techtonic plates. the techtonic plates under new york aren't very active, thus allowing new york to have fewer earthquakes if any at all.

Answer 5

Because it's a geologically stable area, no plates or fault lines butting up.

Answer 6

it not on a fault line

Answer 7

ask GOD