A 3.4 magnitude earthquake occurred early Monday morning in DeKalb County. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake happened at 2:53 a.m., with its epicenter outside of Somonauk, Illinois, approximately 60 miles west of Chicago.
Illinois has experienced three earthquakes over a 12 month period, with two in late 2023. According to the USGS, earthquakes east of the Rock Mountains are relatively rare, but are normally felt over a larger area when they do occur.
According to WTTW, Illinois is a hotbed for seismic activity compared to its neighboring states, home to several seismic "hotspots". The first hotspot is reportedly known as the New Madrid Seismic Zone, extending across from Cairo, Illinois, through parts of Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas. According to WTTW, this region has seen some of the most significant earthquakes in North American history.
The second hotspot is called the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone, located between Mount Vernon, Illinois, and West Franklin, Indiana, according to WTTW.
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