Earthquake 2011
The epicenter of the 5.9 magnitude earthquake that struck east coast at 1:53 p.m. (EDT) on Tuesday, Aug. 23. Google/IBT

A 5.9-magnitude earthquake hit near Charlottesville, Va., on Tuesday at 1:53 p.m. EDT, and the tremors were felt throughout the Washington metro area, New York City, Philadelphia, Boston and North Carolina.

A U.S. Geological Survey confirmed an earthquake struck central Virginia at 1:53 p.m.

In New York City, buildings were shaken and residents went outside to assess any damage.

New York Earthquake New York Earthquake