A meteor entered Earth's atmosphere above northern Ohio on Tuesday morning, causing a loud sonic boom that was heard across multiple states. According to NASA, the meteor, which measured nearly 6 feet in diameter and weighed about 7 tons, became visible at an altitude of 50 miles above Lake Erie around 9am local time.
Key Takeaways
A meteor entered Earth's atmosphere above Ohio on Tuesday morning, causing a loud sonic boom heard as far away as New York and Pennsylvania. The event was confirmed by NASA and the National Weather Service (NWS).
- Meteor entered atmosphere at approximately 9am local time near Cleveland.
- Sonic boom felt across northern Ohio, Pennsylvania, and into New York state.
- NASA reported the meteor was nearly 6 feet in diameter and weighed about 7 tons.
- No debris has been found so far, though fragments may have landed near Medina County, Ohio.
- Residents described the sound as similar to fireworks or thunder.
The sonic boom produced by the meteor rattled windows and startled residents as far away as Pennsylvania and New York. Reports poured in from Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and even into New York state, with many describing a sound similar to fireworks or thunder. The National Weather Service (NWS) offices in Cleveland and Pittsburgh confirmed that satellite data suggested the boom was caused by a meteor.
NASA's analysis indicated that the meteor traveled southeast at 45,000 mph before fragmenting over Valley City, with fragments continuing southward into Medina County. Despite extensive reports of sightings, no debris has been found so far. According to NWS meteorologist Brian Mitchell, any remaining fragments would likely be small due to most of the meteor burning up in the atmosphere.
The event sparked widespread interest and excitement among residents and scientists alike. Laurence Garvie, a research professor at Arizona State University, noted that the landing spot was likely Medina County, where meteorite hunters might find small black rocks. The American Meteor Society received over 100 reports of sightings, with some witnesses describing the fireball as an extraordinary experience.
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