Dixon, Illinois : A magnitude 3.6 earthquake shook northern Illinois Wednesday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The earthquake occurred at 4:40 a.m. local time and was centered about 5 miles south of Standard, Illinois, in Putnam County. The earthquake was felt as far away as Chicago and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
There were no reports of major damage or injuries. However, some residents reported feeling shaking and hearing a loud boom.
The USGS said that the earthquake was the largest to strike the region in recent years. The previous largest earthquake in the region was a magnitude 3.8 earthquake in 2004.
Earthquakes are not uncommon in Illinois. The state is located in the Midwestern Seismic Zone, which is a region of low to moderate earthquake activity.
The USGS said that the earthquake was likely caused by a fault in the Earth’s crust. The fault is located in the Illinois Basin, which is a large geological feature that underlies much of the state.
The earthquake is a reminder that Illinois is not immune to earthquakes. Residents should be prepared for the possibility of an earthquake, and they should know what to do in the event of an earthquake.
Here are some tips for preparing for an earthquake:
Have a plan for what you will do in the event of an earthquake.
Develop an earthquake emergency kit that includes food, water, first aid supplies, and other essential items.
Secure your home by making sure that furniture is bolted to the walls and that heavy objects are not stored on high shelves.
Know the location of the shutoff valves for your gas, water, and electricity.
Practice earthquake drills with your family.
If you are in an earthquake, remember to:
Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.
If you are indoors, stay away from windows, doors, and other objects that could fall and injure you.
If you are outdoors, move away from buildings, trees, and other hazards.
Once the shaking has stopped, check for injuries and damage.
If there is a fire, evacuate the building immediately.
Earthquakes can be scary, but by being prepared, you can reduce your risk of injury and damage.