Nashville, Tennessee – A rare Midwest earthquake early Tuesday is now drawing attention across Tennessee as a surge of Arctic air sends 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 central United States, making the timing notable as extreme cold spreads south.
As the deep freeze reaches Tennessee, 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 result can be a sharp boom or brief shaking that may rattle homes, garages, and vehicles, especially late at night or before dawn.
Middle and eastern Tennessee, including Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Knoxville, and the Cumberland Plateau, may be more susceptible as temperatures plunge following recent rainfall or wet ground conditions. Areas near foundations, roadways, and buried utilities can be especially vulnerable. Frost quakes are shallow and localized but can crack pavement, foundations, and underground pipes.
Emergency officials emphasize that frost quakes are not tied to fault lines and do not signal larger earthquakes. Residents are encouraged to remain alert during the coldest hours, limit unnecessary overnight travel, and inspect property if shaking or loud booms are noticed. With dangerous cold expected to persist through midweek, additional advisories or alerts may be issued as conditions continue to evolve.
