Illinois earthquake of 3.3 magnitude hits near Lena

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — A 3.3 magnitude earthquake was reported in Illinois overnight Monday, according to the United States Geological Society (USGS).

The agency reported a confirmed quake near Lena around 11:43 p.m., with an epicenter nearly 195 miles east-southeast of Quincy.

More than 120 people reported feeling the vibrations from the quake, according to USGS data, with the majority of reports from residents near Mattoon.

According to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security,

Illinois is at risk from two major seismic zones, the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone and the New Madrid Seismic Zone.

The agency says there is a 25%-40% chance during any 50 year span for a magnitude 6.0 or greater earthquake within the seismic zone. None have measured higher than 5.0 since data collection began in 1974.

The largest Illinois earthquake registered 5.4 on April 18th, 2008, in Mt. Carmel.

But, the agency added that one of the largest earthquakes ever to occur in the United States took place in the seismic zone during the winter of 1811-1812, when the area was less densely populated.

“Experts estimate that a similar series of earthquakes today would devastate the region, with projected damages of $60 to $80 billion,” the agency said.