Earthquake in North Potomac and Beyond

Update at 5:09pm: Governor Martin O’Malley today released this statement following the reported 5.9 magnitude earthquake this afternoon:
 
“The earthquake this afternoon was an extremely unusual occurrence for us here on the East Coast.  I have been briefed by members of my cabinet and public safety officials on the status of state facilities and operations. Presently, there are no reports of significant damage or incidents and we will continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly over the next 24 to 48 hours.  We will be paying close attention to our utilities for problems with water mains or gas lines that may not be present immediately following an earthquake."

Update at 3:40pm: MTA Maryland is reporting that many tracks and stations will have delays for this evenings commute. After the earthquake, Union Station was evacuated and all trains stopped. As of 3:40pm, Metro has inspected 70% of the track.  Stations are reopening along the system and they will restore service shortly.

Update at 2:15pm: According to Channel 7 News, the earthquake that hit the region this afternoon was 5.9 in magnitude. With an epicenter located in Virginia. It was felt as far north as New York and as far south as South Carolina.

This is the highest magnitude recorded in the area and since the magnitude is so high, there may be some aftershocks through the afternoon and overnight. 

Original Post: An earthquake rattled Montgomery County this afternoon at approximately 1:50 p.m.

Residents scrambled out of their homes in North Potomac as an earthquake that lasted about one minute shook the streets.

"At first, I was like what's going on here?" said Klaudia Sulima, 13.

"I thought there was some heavy machinery coming from somewhere, but then I thought, oh, we've had an earthquake here before. I called my mom at work and she felt it, too. My mom works in Rockville."