Greenwood County, South Carolina, August 28, 2025
News Summary
A minor earthquake measuring 1.7 in magnitude was confirmed near Coronaca in Greenwood County, South Carolina. This event adds to a series of 16 seismic occurrences since mid-August 2025. These tremors, classified as an earthquake swarm, have raised geological interest but experts assure that they are generally too small to cause significant damage or concern.
Greenwood County, SC
A new minor earthquake was confirmed near the Coronaca community in Greenwood County, South Carolina, adding to a series of seismic events in the area. The latest earthquake registered a magnitude of 1.7 and occurred at approximately 4:32 a.m. local time on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. The epicenter was located about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) north-northeast of Coronaca, along the Saluda River, and the earthquake was recorded at a depth of 4.9 kilometers (3 miles) below the surface.
This event marks the 16th seismic occurrence in the same vicinity since the first quake was registered on August 19, 2025. Most earthquakes in this series have had magnitudes ranging from 2.0 to 2.5. Notably, the most significant earthquake recorded in the swarm had a magnitude of 3.0, which occurred around 12:17 a.m. on August 23, 2025. Two additional small earthquakes were confirmed on August 26 and early August 27, measuring magnitudes 2.4 and 2.0, respectively.
The tremors are classified as part of a “swarm” phenomenon, with over a dozen earthquakes noted in less than a week in the Coronaca area. While the specific cause of these earthquakes is not clearly identified, geological experts suggest that they are generally too small to cause noticeable shaking or damage. Damage from such minor earthquakes is unlikely unless particular conditions create a risk, such as something that is delicately balanced falling over.
Geology experts indicate that these seismic activities might point towards a reactivation of a fault line, though this is not a concern for the general public. The earthquakes may provide insight into the geological history and formation processes of the Appalachian mountains, a critical part of the region’s natural history.
This recent series of earthquakes serves as a reminder of the dynamic geological forces at work beneath the Earth’s surface in Greenwood County and surrounding areas. As the situation continues to unfold, officials and residents are encouraged to remain informed but not alarmed.
Background on Earthquake Swarms
Earthquake swarms are groups of earthquakes occurring in the same area over a short period of time. Typically, swarms are not associated with larger tectonic earthquake events, and they can occur due to various geological activities. In many cases, the tremors are small and do not pose threats to infrastructure or safety. The East Coast of the United States, particularly areas like South Carolina, is not as seismically active as the West Coast, making these recent occurrences unusual, yet generally harmless.
Monitoring and Response
Continuous monitoring by the US Geological Survey (USGS) provides critical data and information about seismic activities. Authorities encourage residents to remain aware but not fearful, as most minor earthquakes like these do not lead to significant hazards. Preparedness and education about what to do during any seismic event remain essential for community safety.
Conclusion
The recent earthquake swarm in Greenwood County serves as a timely reminder of the dynamic natural processes at play in the region. As data continues to be gathered, the geology experts emphasize the importance of understanding the environment while maintaining a calm approach to these minor seismic activities.
FAQ
What was the latest earthquake’s magnitude in Greenwood County?
The latest confirmed earthquake near Coronaca had a magnitude of 1.7.
How many earthquakes have been recorded in the area since August 19, 2025?
There have been a total of 16 earthquakes recorded in the area since August 19, 2025.
Are these earthquakes likely to cause damage?
Generally, the earthquakes in this swarm are too small to cause noticeable shaking or damage.
What is a geological swarm?
An earthquake swarm is a series of earthquakes occurring in the same location over a short time frame, which are typically not associated with larger tectonic events and often consist of smaller magnitude shocks.
How far was the epicenter from Coronaca?
The epicenter was located about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) north-northeast of Coronaca.
Earthquake Summary Chart
| Date | Magnitude | Epicenter Location | Depth (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 19, 2025 | Magnitude not specified | Coronaca area | N/A |
| August 23, 2025 | 3.0 | Coronaca area | N/A |
| August 26, 2025 | 2.4 | Coronaca area | N/A |
| August 27, 2025 | 1.7 | 3 km north-northeast of Coronaca | 4.9 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Flurry of Earthquakes Recorded in Coronaca, South Carolina
Earthquakes Strike Greenwood County, South Carolina
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
Additional Resources
- WSPA: More Earthquakes Detected in Greenwood County
- Wikipedia: Earthquake Swarms
- WYFF: Earthquakes Continue in Greenwood, South Carolina
- Google Search: Earthquake Swarm Greenwood County 2025
- WLTX: Small Quake in Coronaca, South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Earthquake
- WYFF: Earthquake Swarm in Greenwood, South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Greenwood County Earthquake 2025
- WBTW: Cause Still Uncertain After Small Earthquakes Hit Lake Greenwood Area
- Google News: Greenwood County Earthquakes
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.
