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3.3 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes East-Central Illinois

The USGS confirms the late-night tremor near Lerna and Neoga, felt by residents across multiple counties with no reported damage.

File photo. A seismograph machine needle drawing a line depicting seismic and earthquake activity.
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A 3.3 magnitude earthquake was confirmed in Central Illinois, officials said.

Overview

  • A 3.3 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 11:43 p.m. near Lerna and Neoga in Coles and Cumberland Counties, Illinois, at a depth of 5.5 miles.
  • Over two dozen residents reported feeling the quake, with reports spanning from Mount Vernon to Urbana and concentrated in areas like Mattoon and Charleston.
  • The United States Geological Survey confirmed the quake, which is part of Illinois' ongoing seismic activity tied to fault systems and seismic zones in the region.
  • Illinois is located near two major seismic zones: the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone and the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which have historically produced significant earthquakes.
  • Though Illinois averages five earthquakes per year, most are minor and not typically felt by residents, highlighting the importance of monitoring and preparedness.