Illinois Creates Seismic Safety Task Force to Prepare for Earthquakes

Illinois has decided to create a panel aimed at improving earthquake preparedness.

The Illinois Seismic Safety Task Force will assess how high-risk portions of the state have prepared to minimize earthquake damage. The group will also give Governor Rod Blagojevich recommendations on how monitor earthquakes and increase the state’s readiness.

Last month, Illinois was rattled by a 5.2-magnitude temblor and a series of aftershocks that were centered in far southeastern Illinois. The earthquakes caused minor damage.

The Illinois Seismic Safety Task Force will be lead by the heads of the Illinois Division of Insurance and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.

The group will hold its first meeting this June.