Residents in central and southern Illinois, as well as St. Louis, experienced a noticeable tremor overnight, as a 3.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Ohlman, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This seismic event occurred early Tuesday morning and was felt in various areas including Springfield and Taylorville, extending its reach to parts of Missouri, particularly St. Louis.
Light shaking was also reported in Chatham and Decatur, with some residents in Champaign noting the vibrations as well. While a 3.8 magnitude earthquake might be felt by many, it typically does not cause significant damage. For reference, events of a magnitude 7.0 or higher are classified as major earthquakes and are associated with severe damage.
The earthquake occurred within the Ozark Dome Region, a geological area that encompasses parts of Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, and Arkansas, stretching between Indianapolis, St. Louis, and Memphis. The USGS highlighted that the region experiences “moderately frequent earthquakes at irregular intervals,” with the most powerful historical quake recorded being a magnitude 5.4 in southern Illinois back in 1968.
It is important to note that this area borders the more seismically active New Madrid seismic zone, which is known for its potential for larger earthquakes. The occurrence of this quake serves as a reminder of the seismic activity that can impact communities in the region. While the tremor was mildly unsettling for many, the overall impact was minimal, highlighting the resilience and preparedness of the residents living in earth-prone areas.