Greenwood County, South Carolina, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Greenwood County, South Carolina, has recorded a surprising surge in seismic activity, with at least 12 earthquakes in the past week. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed two notable events, registered at magnitudes of 1.8 and 2.0. This unusual cluster of tremors follows a previous period of quakes, alarming local residents, although no significant damage or injuries have been reported. Experts are investigating the cause of this concentrated seismic activity and encouraging residents to review their earthquake preparedness measures.
Greenwood County, South Carolina has experienced a surge of seismic activity, with at least 12 earthquakes recorded in the area over the past week. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed two of these events: a 1.8 magnitude quake that occurred on Sunday night at 10:20 p.m. and a 2.0 magnitude quake at 2:51 a.m. on Monday. This recent series of tremors follows a previous cluster of seven earthquakes, with the first of the current series starting on August 18.
The seismic activity recorded in Greenwood County has included magnitudes ranging from 1.7 to 3.0, with particularly notable quakes of 2.2, 2.9, and 3.0 occurring over the weekend. The most powerful of these shakes were reported shortly after midnight on Saturday, marking them as the strongest earthquakes South Carolina has experienced in years. Following these stronger tremors, five more minor earthquakes were recorded, with magnitudes of 2.5, 1.9, 2.0, 2.4, 1.8, and 1.7.
Fortunately, no significant injuries or property damage have been reported as a result of these earthquakes. However, many residents in the area have expressed concern about the repeated tremors. The recent earthquake activity deviates from normal patterns, as South Carolina typically sees only six to ten earthquakes per year. In fact, 2025 has already recorded a total of 25 confirmed quakes, including a 1.75 magnitude quake in Myrtle Beach on August 9, the last one recorded prior to the recent flurry.
Historical data shows that South Carolina has had its share of seismic events, with the strongest earthquake recorded being a 7.3 magnitude quake in Charleston in 1886, which led to significant damage and loss of life. The area of Greenwood County had experienced a total of nine quakes in October 2024, but there had been a relative calm until this recent increase in seismic activity.
Experts, including USGS research geophysicist Thomas Pratt, have noted that while minor earthquakes are a common occurrence, the concentration of seismic events in a short time frame in the same location is unusual. The majority of these recent earthquakes have been classified as microquakes, which generally do not cause any damage.
In light of the recent seismic activity, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division recommends that residents review their earthquake preparedness measures. This includes checking insurance policies and securing vulnerable items within their homes. Additionally, hundreds of reports from local residents regarding the tremors have been submitted to the USGS, indicating heightened public awareness and concern.
The cause of this concentration of seismic activity remains undetermined, and researchers are exploring potential connections to local geological structures, including possible relationships to the nearby Wateree River. Understanding these connections may be vital in addressing the recent surge of earthquakes and preparing for future occurrences.
Key Features of Greenwood County’s Earthquake Activity
| Date | Magnitude | Time |
|---|---|---|
| August 18 | 1.7 to 3.0 | Over several days |
| August 20 | 2.9 | Shortly after midnight |
| August 21 | 2.0 | 2:51 a.m. |
FAQ
What is causing the recent earthquake activity in Greenwood County?
The specific cause of the concentrated seismic activity in Greenwood County has not been definitively identified. Experts are investigating potential links to local geological structures, including the nearby Wateree River.
Have there been any injuries or damage reported from the earthquakes?
As of now, no significant injuries or property damage have been reported following the earthquakes in Greenwood County.
How often do earthquakes typically occur in South Carolina?
Typically, South Carolina experiences around six to ten earthquakes each year. However, since June 2022, the state has noted a higher frequency of seismic events, especially in the Midlands region.
What should residents do to prepare for earthquakes?
Residents are advised to review earthquake preparedness measures, ensure that their insurance policies cover earthquake damage, and secure loose items in their homes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Greenwood County, South Carolina Experiences Back-to-Back Earthquakes
Additional Resources
- WYFF4 News
- Wikipedia: Earthquake
- WACH News
- Google Search: South Carolina Earthquake 2025
- WISTV News
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Earthquake
- The State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Earthquake
- WLTX News
- Google News: South Carolina Earthquake Swarms
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