IDOT’s Earthquake Response Plan put into action
to ensure road, bridge safety following earthquake, aftershocks
IDOT plan part of state’s overall response to tremors this morning in southeastern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – As part of the state’s overall response to today’s earthquake in southeastern Illinois, Governor Rod R. Blagojevich directed the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to ensure road and bridge safety throughout the affected area. Starting at dawn, IDOT began inspecting roads and bridges for damage under its comprehensive Earthquake Response Plan.
“We are committed to making sure our roads and bridges are safe for drivers,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “IDOT is following its standard procedures for responding to an earthquake today, and performing diligent work to ensure the safety of motorists in Illinois.”
The IDOT Earthquake Response Plan outlines responsibilities into three levels. As part of the first level, after being notified of the earthquake, IDOT Operations field staff reported to pre-assigned teams this morning. The teams have spent the day running assigned routes to assess and record any visible damage. No damage has been found.
The second level of the plan involves qualified bridge inspectors focusing in on any reported damage, recorded by the first level, and coordinating with the Central Bureau of Bridges and Structures as needed for closures and/or load restrictions. Bridges were inspected within a 50 mile radius of the earthquake’s origin, and at numerous other locations, throughout the state. No damage has been found.
“Safety of our motorists is the number one priority for the Illinois Department of Transportation,” said IDOT Secretary Milton R. Sees. “We have this plan in place for a reason, and it ran seamlessly in the aftermath of this morning’s earthquake. We are making certain that all roads and bridges are safe for drivers through this process.”
The third level of response was not initiated, since no damage was reported to warrant it. After completing the first two inspection levels following the mainshock, IDOT performed the process a second time following the significant aftershock that was rep <<04.18.08 GOV IDOT Earthquake Response.pdf>> orted shortly after 10:00 a.m.
Blagojevich Administration briefs public on what to expect following rare Illinois earthquake
"Aftershocks" felt through out Illinois
SPRINGFIELD - The Blagojevich Administration briefed the public on what to expect following a rare earthquake centered in southeastern Illinois early this morning. Officials explained that the public should be aware of smaller seismic events called "aftershocks" that may be felt through out the state for as much as a week following this morning’s 5.2 magnitude earthquake. As of 11:00 am today, Illinois has experienced six aftershocks measuring as high as magnitude 4.6.
Officials also warned Illinoisans to be wary of people offering to repair earthquake damage, write earthquake insurance policies or insist that they can get paid by an insurance company for repair costs. Because earthquakes are so rare in the Midwest, most home and business-owners have historically declined to purchase earthquake insurance, which is offered as separate coverage at additional costs. If a homeowner does not have earthquake insurance, damage caused by the earthquake may not be covered.
"Earthquakes certainly are not common here in Illinois and so it is understandable that people may be concerned about feeling vibrations in the hours and days ahead. We want to make sure people understand what is taking place and how to prepare for aftershocks as much as they can," said Governor Blagojevich. "We also want people to be very wary of those offering to repair damage or write insurance policies following the earthquake. Unfortunately, there can be people who try to capitalize on events like this."
There are things homeowners can do to protect their property and make sure any damage is repaired by reputable contractors. After an earthquake or other natural disaster, families and business owners should take additional care when hiring a contractor to repair any damage:
- Hire a local contractor. Deal only with established firms or individuals who can provide references and are willing to give you a signed contract.
- Check with your local building code department or the Better Business Bureau for guidance.
- Don't rush into signing a contract. Collect a number of estimates for the job.
- Obtain written estimates before repairs begin.
Homeowners who have earthquake insurance should notify their insurance company immediately if they suspect they have earthquake damage. The company will assign a representative to evaluate the damage and work with the owner to determine when and how reimbursements for repairs will be made. Since all insurance contracts are not the same, homeowners should work directly with their insurance agent to review their policies and coverage.
Most Illinois homeowners' insurance companies offer earthquake insurance. Homeowners may want to talk with their insurance agents about whether it makes sense to purchase additional coverage for all potential dangers. Additionally, homeowners with insurance questions may contact the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Insurance Hotline at 866/445.5364.
Illinois could experience many smaller seismic events at any time over the next several days; however most will not be felt by the majority of the state. Scientists from the Illinois State Geological Survey are currently coordinating with staff from Indiana University, Purdue University and the University of Memphis where the Center for Earthquake Research and Information is located. These scientists are in Illinois to measure these smaller seismic aftershocks.
What are Aftershocks?
Aftershocks are additional earthquakes that occur after the mainshock and in the same geographic area. Usually, aftershocks are smaller than the mainshock, but occasionally an aftershock may be strong enough to be felt widely throughout the area and may cause additional damage, particularly to structures already weakened in the mainshock. Aftershocks are most common immediately after the mainshock and are most likely to be felt in the first few days after the mainshock.
What to do during an earthquake or aftershock:
- Stay calm and expect earthquakes or aftershocks to last for a few seconds up to a few minutes.
- If you are inside a building or other solid structure…stay there until the event is over.
- Duck or drop down to the floor
- Take cover under a sturdy desk, table or other furniture.
- Avoid danger spots near windows, hanging objects, mirrors, or taller furniture
- When driving, stop safely as soon as possible. Stay in the vehicle until shaking stops. Do not stop vehicles under overpasses or on bridges.
What to do after an earthquake or aftershock:
- Check for injuries and render first aid
- Avoid other hazards such as fire and chemical spills
- Check utilities such as gas, water and electricity. If safe, shut utilities off at the source.
- Do not use matches, candles and lighters inside
- Turn on a battery powered radio and listen for public safety information broadcasts
General preparedness
Personal preparedness is important for any type of emergency, including earthquakes. IEMA recommends people throughout Illinois maintain a disaster supply kit with essentials, such as:
- Water – at least one gallon per day per person (minimum of three-day supply)
- Food – a three-day supply of non-perishable foods.
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Prescription and non-prescription medications
- Items for children, the elderly and special-needs individuals
Governor Blagojevich activates State Emergency Operations Center after earthquake centered in southeastern Illinois
SEOC receiving reports of minor damage in affected area
SPRINGFIELD - Shortly after an early-morning earthquake centered in Wabash County in southeastern Illinois, Governor Rod R. Blagojevich directed the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) to activate the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Springfield to assess the impact. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the epicenter was reported to be six miles east of West Salem, Illinois, near the Edward County and Wabash County line. After activating early this morning, the SEOC began receiving initial reports of minor damage in southern Illinois.
At 4:37 a.m., a 5.2 magnitude earthquake was reported, with shaking felt throughout Illinois. Personnel from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), Illinois State Police (ISP), and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) have staff in southern Illinois assessing damage.
"The State Emergency Operations Center is in contact with officials throughout southern Illinois to get information about the impact of the earthquake," Gov. Blagojevich said. "Fortunately at this point, the damage reported appears to be minor. We are prepared to offer any assistance needed."
Representatives from IEMA, IDOT, ISP, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Illinois National Guard (ING), Secretary of State, Central Management Services (CMS), Illinois Department of Agriculture, the Office of the Attorney General and the American Red Cross reported to the SEOC early this morning.
