SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is reminding Illinoisans to be prepared for earthquakes after one hit southern Illinois Monday morning.
The earthquake was reported to be 2.3 magnitude by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which is considered a minor earthquake.
“While some hazards such as storms, tornadoes and floods can be forecasted in order to provide advance notice to residents in an area of danger, other hazards such as earthquakes cannot be predicted,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau.
Tate-Nadeau warned that earthquakes can strike at any time, and residents should be prepared.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that 500,000 detectable earthquakes occur in the world each year.
To help Illinoisans prepare for an earthquake, IEMA encourages people to partake in the world’s largest earthquake drill on Oct. 21 at 10:21 a.m.
During an earthquake drill, participants practice the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” technique.
The actual movement of the ground during an earthquake is seldom a direct cause of death or injury, according to IEMA. Most injuries and casualties result from falling objects and debris.
Illinoisans can register for the drill and see more about earthquake preparedness at www.shakeout.org.
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