An earthquake of 4.7 magnitude has struck the metropolitan area of New York City.

The US Geological Survey recorded the rare quake magnitude centred near Lebanon, New Jersey.

The Fire Department of New York said there were no initial reports of damage.

Tremors from the quake have also been felt along the east coast in New Jersey, Virginia and Philadelphia.

The earthquake hit at around 10.20am local time (3.20pm GMT).

In Brooklyn, buildings were shaken and cupboard and wardrobe doors and fixtures were reported as rattling.

The Federal Aviation Administration said that many incoming flights at major airports in and around New York City were being diverted from landing.

Mayor Eric Adams, addressing reporters and New York City residents, said people should go about their normal day.

"First responders are working to make sure the city is safe," he said.

He added that earthquakes were rare in New York City and could be "extremely traumatic" for some. He urged New Yorkers to be aware that aftershocks could happen, however, a top emergency official for the city said the likelihood was “low.”

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The New York Mayor's office said that officials were assessing the impact.

A UN Security Council meeting on Gaza at its New York headquarters was momentarily paused due to the quakes.

"Is that an earthquake?" said Save the Children representative Janti Soeripto, who was speaking at the time.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul posted online: "My team is assessing impacts and any damage that may have occurred, and we will update the public throughout the day."

A warning about the quake from the city’s emergency alert system was sent about 40 minutes after it happened.

Residents and celebrities took to social media to share their reactions to the quake.

One user posted: "That’s a fairly strong earthquake. I hope everyone is safe," whilst another added: "Never felt anything like that before. Day after Tomorrow vibes right now.."

US media star Megyn Kelly posted on X that she felt it in Connecticut: "Did we just have an earthquake?"

Oscar-winner Jessica Chastain wrote: "Did we just have an earthquake?! NYC"

Meanwhile, the online account for the Empire State Building posted: "I am fine."