Richmond, Virginia – A rare Midwest earthquake early Tuesday is now drawing attention across Virginia as a surge of Arctic air drives temperatures sharply lower, creating conditions that could lead to frost quakes during the coldest overnight hours.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck central Illinois shortly before 2 a.m. Tuesday, centered about 35 miles south of Springfield. The shallow quake was felt across a wide portion of Illinois, with thousands reporting shaking and loud rumbles before sunrise. While no damage was reported, seismic events of this size are uncommon in the Midwest, making the timing notable as extreme cold expands east.
As the deep freeze reaches Virginia, geologists say rapid temperature drops can trigger frost quakes, also known as cryoseisms. These occur when moisture in the ground freezes suddenly, causing soil and rock to contract and crack. The resulting boom or vibration can feel like a small earthquake and may rattle homes, especially late at night or before dawn.
Parts of central and western Virginia, including Richmond, Charlottesville, Roanoke, and the Shenandoah Valley, may be more susceptible as temperatures fall into extreme cold following recent rain or snow. Mountain and rural areas, along with locations near foundations, roads, and underground utilities, can be especially vulnerable. Frost quakes are shallow and localized but can crack pavement, foundations, and pipes.
State emergency officials emphasize that frost quakes are not related to fault lines and do not signal larger earthquakes. Residents are encouraged to remain alert during the coldest periods, inspect property if shaking is felt, and report loud booms or ground movement to local authorities or the USGS. With dangerous cold expected to persist through midweek, additional advisories or alerts may follow as conditions continue to evolve.
