A minor earthquake that measured 2.3 in magnitude was registered in central Illinois just east of St. Louis on Tuesday, January 17, according to the United States Geological Survey. This quake struck at 5:10 a.m. but where was it exactly?
The USGS listed the quake at three miles northeast of Troy, Illinois at a depth of 8.4 miles. This location is 23 miles east-northeast of St. Louis. This quake was small enough that it was unlikely anyone even noticed it, especially at just after five in the morning.
The location of this quake was in the Illinois basin - Ozark dome region which is a seismic zone that covers most of southern and part of central Illinois, a portion of southeastern Missouri, part of south-central Indiana and a portion of western Kentucky. This particular seismic region lies against the northern edge of the New Madrid Seismic Zone and encompasses the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone.
While Tuesday's quake was minor, it is a reminder that earthquakes can strike anywhere at any time and it is important to always be prepared.
Follow a few simple tips to plan ahead:
Know what to do in the event of an earthquake. If you are inside, duck, cover and hold on. Get under a heavy table and hold on.
Before an earthquake strikes, secure heavy objects (bookshelves, water heater, wall art) securely. Prepare an emergency kit with supplies (first aid supplies, flashlights and batteries, extra food and water, hand crank or battery operated radio, prescription medications, car chargers).
If you live around Troy, Illinois, did you notice anything Tuesday morning? Were your pets acting strange or did you hear or feel any vibrations in your home?
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