Many people are unaware of how common earthquakes are in South Carolina. Approximately 10 to 15 earthquakes are recorded annually in South Carolina with three to five of them felt or noticed by people. On the night of October 10, 2024, a 2.16 magnitude earthquake occurred near Greenwood, South Carolina.
The biggest earthquake to affect Charleston occurred in 1886 with a magnitude estimated between 6.9 and 7.3. This earthquake caused 100 deaths and damage to about 7,000 buildings.
This is why older buildings in our area have earthquake bolts on the sides of these structures. These bolts hold poles together that were used to repair and strengthen brick walls. They take many interesting shapes, such as stars and crosses. To read more about these iron bolts, click here.
Dr. Erin Beutel, College of Charleston Geology & Geosciences Department, provided Tidelines with the following map from the USGS that shows the areas with the highest and lowest earthquake vulnerability. As you can see, Charleston is in the risk zone.
This year’s International ShakeOut Day is October 17, 2024, when millions of people worldwide will participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home.
At 10:17 am (local time) on October 17, 2024, you can join more than a million people across the Southeast U.S. practicing earthquake safety.
It’s actually a good idea to practice earthquake safety in different situations each year, and ShakeOut organizers are here to support you. For more information, click here.
–Tidelines Editors
(Image and information credit: FEMA)