Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, and Ohio at Risk of “Frost Quakes” Tonight as Rapid Temperature Drop Freezes Ground Water

ILLINOIS — An unusual weather phenomenon known as frost quakes may occur across parts of Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, and Ohio tonight as temperatures plunge rapidly, causing groundwater beneath the surface to freeze and expand. The rapid expansion can create sudden, explosive cracking noises — often mistaken for gunshots, explosions, falling trees, or even small earthquakes.

What Are Frost Quakes?

Frost quakes — scientifically called cryoseisms — occur when water trapped in soil freezes so quickly that it expands and fractures the surrounding ground. The result is a sharp, loud booming sound, sometimes strong enough to shake nearby structures.

Unlike traditional earthquakes, frost quakes do not originate from seismic activity. They are short-lived, extremely localized events triggered by rapid temperature drops.

Where Frost Quakes May Be Heard Tonight

Based on the risk map, the highest chance of frost quakes extends across:

• Eastern Iowa
• Northern and Central Illinois (including the Chicago region)
• Northern and Central Indiana
• Western and Central Ohio

The highlighted zone stretches from Des Moines through Dubuque, Chicago, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and into Columbus — all areas experiencing a rapid freeze.

Why Tonight’s Conditions Are Perfect for Cryoseisms

Meteorologists warn that tonight’s setup checks all the major boxes for frost-quake formation:

• Ground heavily saturated from recent weather
• Temperatures falling quickly after sunset
• Moist soil layers freezing unevenly
• High pressure and clear overnight skies

When the ground freezes too fast for moisture to escape, internal pressure builds. Once it reaches a breaking point, the ground can crack suddenly — producing a sharp, startling bang.

Will Residents Feel Shaking?

While most frost quakes only produce loud noises, slight vibrations are possible. They typically occur late at night or early in the morning, when temperatures reach their coldest point.

Experts stress that frost quakes are not dangerous and cause no structural damage, but they can be alarming for residents hearing them for the first time.

What Residents Should Expect Overnight

Locals in the impact zone should be prepared for:

• Sudden loud booms resembling thunder
• Brief, isolated cracking sounds outside
• Noise occurring between midnight and early morning

No action is required, but meteorologists advise residents to be aware so the sounds do not cause unnecessary panic.

Stay Informed

With temperatures continuing to fall across the Midwest, additional frost-quake reports may surface through Monday. For more local weather updates and safety information, keep visiting NapervilleLocal.com.