5.9 Earthquake Hits New York City, D.C., Office Employees Feel 'Mild Sway'

An earthquake sent tremors from Washington to New York City on Tuesday afternoon, and U.S. geological officials and other authorities said it was a 5.9 magnitude earthquake based in Virginia.

The mild shake and tremble was felt shortly before 2 p.m. EDT. The movement lasted no more than 30 seconds in downtown Washington, The New York Times reported.

There were no immediate reports of damage.

In New York City, specifically in Lower Manhattan, the tremor was felt at the 7 Hanover Square skyscraper office building, which is home to International Business Times, which is on the building's 5th floor.

Employees in the newsroom felt the building move slightly, and detected a swaying sensation that affected their desks and work stations.