Residents across parts of Massachusetts reported hearing a loud boom and feeling their homes shake on Saturday afternoon, though the source of the disturbance remains unknown.
Reports of Explosion-Like Sound
According to WCVB, Boston's ABC-affiliated local television station, viewers from multiple communities said they heard what sounded like an explosion shortly after 2 pm (local time) and felt vibrations strong enough to rattle homes and alarm pets.
People from areas including Melrose, Wellesley, and Newtonville shared similar accounts with the broadcaster. Some initially believed a tree had struck their house or that a transformer had exploded, while others said the noise was far louder than anything they had previously experienced.
Possible Meteor Explanation
Despite widespread reports, there was no immediate explanation for the boom. However, Spaceflight meteorologist Nick Stewart hinted that a meteorite entering the atmosphere could be the cause. "Reports of an explosion heard around Boston I believe are going to be a rather significant bolide/meteor entering the atmosphere. Very large 'flash' detected by GOES-19 GLM that does not correlate with active thunderstorms," he said on X.
Official Response Pending
Authorities have not yet given any official statement on the reported explosion or its cause. The incident has sparked curiosity and concern among residents, with many taking to social media to share their experiences.
This event adds to a series of unexplained sonic booms and meteor sightings that have occurred in various parts of the world. Scientists often note that such phenomena, while startling, are typically harmless and result from natural cosmic events.
