Greenwood County, August 27, 2025
News Summary
A series of earthquakes shook Greenwood County, South Carolina, with two quakes recorded on August 25, following abnormal seismic activity over the prior week. The US Geological Survey confirmed the latest tremors, suggesting a potential earthquake swarm, reminiscent of past swarms. Residents are encouraged to prepare and report their experiences to better understand the seismic events. No significant injuries or damage have been reported.
Greenwood, South Carolina – Series of Earthquakes Rattle Area, Indicate Possible Swarm Activity
On Monday, August 25, two earthquakes were confirmed by the US Geological Survey (USGS) near the Coronaca community in Greenwood County, South Carolina. The first quake, measuring 1.8 in magnitude, struck at approximately 2:20 a.m., followed by a second quake of 2.0 magnitude around 6:51 a.m. Both tremors occurred about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) north of Coronaca along the Saluda River, just as it begins to form Lake Greenwood.
These events mark the 12th and 13th earthquakes recorded in the Greenwood area within a single week. This abnormal frequency suggests the possibility of an earthquake “swarm,” comparable to prior swarms noted in the region, including one in Lugoff-Elgin in 2022. The recent seismic activity began on August 19, with earlier tremors registered at magnitudes of 2.2 and 1.7.
Notably, on Saturday, August 23, eight earthquakes were reported in the vicinity, with one reaching a notable 3.0 magnitude. Additionally, a 2.0 magnitude earthquake was recorded on Thursday, August 21, about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) southeast of Ware Shoals. The swarming events concentrated within a small area have been distinctive in their frequency, although all recorded magnitudes remained below levels typically associated with structural damage.
As of now, no significant injuries or damage have been reported from these earthquake swarms. In light of these events, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division has recommended that residents familiarize themselves with earthquake preparedness measures and explore insurance options. It is important for residents to be prepared, as research indicates that significant damage is most common at magnitudes of 4.5 or higher.
Thomas Pratt, a research geophysicist from the USGS, has pointed out that while tens of thousands of minor earthquakes have been detected across the Eastern United States over the last four centuries, the unusual frequency of recent earthquakes poses many questions. Experts are currently examining the causes of the ongoing earthquake swarm and its possible implications, including whether it could precede a larger seismic event.
For historical reference, past earthquake swarms in South Carolina have sometimes led to more significant quakes, such as the devastating 7.0 magnitude quake that struck Charleston in 1886. In response to the current situation, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division has been active on social media, sharing earthquake safety recommendations, such as the protocol to drop, cover, and hold on during shaking.
Residents who have felt the tremors are encouraged to report their experiences to the US Geological Survey, helping to build a better understanding of this seismic activity.
Additional Context
This sequence of earthquakes signifies the most active week for Greenwood County since a previous swarm was noted in October 2024. With magnitudes ranging from 1.7 to 3.0, the recent quakes demonstrate the importance of community awareness and preparedness in the face of unpredictable natural phenomena.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes earthquake swarms?
Earthquake swarms are sequences of seismic events in a localized area with no single main shock. They can occur due to stress changes in the Earth’s crust caused by tectonic plate movement, volcanic activity, or underground fluid movement.
How can residents prepare for earthquakes?
Residents can prepare by securing heavy furniture, creating an emergency plan with family members, and keeping emergency supplies on hand, including water, food, and a first-aid kit. Additionally, reviewing insurance policies for earthquake coverage can also be beneficial.
What should I do during an earthquake?
During an earthquake, it is recommended to drop downcover your head and neck, and hold on to a sturdy object until the shaking stops. Move away from windows and avoid doorways that may not provide safety.
Chart of Key Features
| Date | Magnitude | Location | Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 19, 2023 | 2.2 | Coronaca | Shallow | First in the recent series |
| August 19, 2023 | 1.7 | Coronaca | Shallow | Contributing to swarm activity |
| August 21, 2023 | 2.0 | Southeast of Ware Shoals | Shallow | Part of the ongoing series |
| August 23, 2023 | 3.0 | Coronaca | Shallow | Largest magnitude of the swarm |
| August 25, 2023 | 1.8 | Coronaca | Shallow | First quake of the day |
| August 25, 2023 | 2.0 | Coronaca | Shallow | Second quake of the day |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Greenwood County Faces Surge in Earthquake Activity
Greenwood County, South Carolina Experiences Earthquake Swarm
Greenwood County Rattled by Earthquake Swarm
Greenwood County Experiences Unprecedented Earthquake Swarm
Greenwood County Earthquakes Prompt Emergency Preparedness
Earthquake Swarm Hits Lake Greenwood Area
Greenwood, South Carolina Experiences Surge in Earthquake Activity
Unusual Earthquake Swarm Recorded in Greenwood County
Small Earthquake Cluster Shakes Greenwood County
Greenwood County Experiences Surge in Earthquake Activity
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Earthquake Swarm in Greenwood, SC
- Wikipedia: Earthquake
- WLTX: 2-Magnitude Earthquake in South Carolina
- Google Search: Earthquake Preparedness
- Newsweek: Warning about South Carolina Earthquake Swarm
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Earthquake
- WSPA: Small Earthquakes Hit Lake Greenwood Area
- Google News: Greenwood South Carolina Earthquake
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
