Could Northern Illinois Hear ‘Icequakes’ During This Brutal Cold Snap?

Northern Illinois is locked in one of those deep freezes that makes everything creak, groan, and sound… suspicious. And this week, there’s a chance some of those noises won’t just be your house complaining.

Weather experts say a rare phenomenon known as icequakes could be possible as extreme cold settles over the region, including the Rockford area.

An extreme cold warning remains in effect through Friday afternoon, with wind chills dropping 30 degrees or more below zero and air temperatures struggling to climb above zero. That kind of rapid temperature drop is what sets the stage.

What People Mean When They Say “Icequake”

Before the name sends anyone into a panic, an icequake isn’t a true earthquake. It’s also called a cryoseism and happens when temperatures plunge so quickly that moisture still in the ground freezes and expands all at once.

That sudden expansion can create a loud popping or cracking noise, and in some cases, a small vibration that can feel like a minor tremor.

Why Northern Illinois Could Hear One

According to NBC 5 Storm Team meteorologist Kevin Jeanes, soil temperatures across northern Illinois are already cold, generally between 28 and 33 degrees. That means much of the moisture in the ground is already frozen, which lowers the odds.

Snow cover also plays a role. Areas with snow on the ground are less likely to experience icequakes because snow acts like insulation, slowing down how quickly the ground freezes.

What It Might Sound Like If It Happens

People who experience icequakes often describe them as a loud bang, pop, or crack, sometimes followed by a brief shake. It can be startling, especially in the middle of the night, but it’s usually harmless.

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Here’s When to Worry (and When You Shouldn’t)

In most cases, icequakes don’t cause damage and don’t signal a larger seismic event. If you hear a loud noise during extreme cold, it’s likely just the ground reacting to rapid freezing.

However, if shaking is prolonged, damage is visible, or noises are accompanied by other unusual conditions, it’s worth contacting local authorities, not because it’s likely, but because it’s smart.

For now, it’s just one more weird reminder that northern Illinois winters don’t mess around. If that wasn't enough winter weirdness, have you heard about exploding trees?

READ MORE: 5 Ways Illinois Winter Won’t Let Seasonal Depression Kick Your Butt