Columbus, Ohio – A rare earthquake that shook central Illinois early Tuesday is drawing new attention in Ohio as a surge of Arctic air sends temperatures plunging into extreme territory, creating conditions that can trigger frost quakes.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck central Illinois shortly before 2 a.m. Tuesday, with shaking felt across a wide portion of the state, including the Springfield area. While earthquakes of that size are uncommon in the Midwest, the timing of the event alongside a sharp overnight temperature drop has scientists and emergency officials urging awareness farther east.
As bitter cold overspreads Ohio, geologists note that rapid temperature drops can lead to frost quakes, also known as cryoseisms. These occur when moisture in the ground freezes quickly, causing soil and rock to contract and fracture. The result can be a loud boom or sudden shaking that may rattle homes, crack pavement, or startle residents, particularly overnight.
Frost quakes are not tied to fault lines and do not produce aftershocks, but they are more likely during intense cold snaps following wetter conditions. Areas across central and northern Ohio, including Columbus, Dayton, Cleveland, and Toledo, could be susceptible as temperatures continue to fall.
Emergency officials stress that frost quakes are typically harmless, though residents should inspect foundations, sidewalks, and driveways for cracks. Any shaking or loud reports can be shared with local officials or the USGS to help researchers better understand these rare cold-weather events. With dangerous cold expanding across the region, additional advisories may follow through midweek.
