Greenwood County, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Greenwood County, South Carolina, has reported a series of 17 earthquakes with the strongest measuring 3.0 since August 19. Experts attribute this unusual activity to Reservoir Induced Seismicity. Residents are advised to take safety precautions, including securing heavy items and considering earthquake insurance due to typical homeowners’ policies not covering such damage. Emergency officials stress the importance of preparedness as the frequency of tremors raises concerns about future seismic dangers. Although these small earthquakes are common in the area, this cluster’s occurrence is notably unusual.
Earthquake Swarm Shakes Greenwood County, South Carolina: Residents Urged to Prepare
Greenwood County, South Carolina, has been experiencing a notable series of earthquakes since August 19, 2025. This cluster of seismic activity has recorded at least 17 tremors in August alone, with the strongest event reaching a magnitude of 3.0.
The majority of these tremors have been concentrated around Lake Greenwood, particularly near the areas of Coronaca and the northwestern shoreline. Geologists classify this recent seismic activity as an earthquake swarm, characterized by multiple small earthquakes occurring in succession without a central main event.
Seismic Activity Overview
According to state geologists, South Carolina typically experiences between 10 to 15 earthquakes each year. However, the frequency of earthquakes in Greenwood County has raised eyebrows due to its unusual concentration.
Experts suggest that this cluster of quakes may be influenced by Reservoir Induced Seismicity, where increased water levels in the lake apply pressure to faults, resulting in slippage. Notably, evidence indicates that lake levels increased by approximately two-tenths of a foot beginning August 21, just before the earthquakes commenced.
Impact on Residents
While no serious damage has been reported, local residents, including individuals like Chuck Mitchell, have felt the tremors’ effects, noting that pictures fell from walls and shelves became dislodged. In response to the earthquake swarm, local emergency officials have recommended that residents take precautions by securing heavy items, designating safe spots within their homes, and maintaining emergency kits stocked with essentials such as food, water, and important documents.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division emphasizes that earthquake preparedness is crucial, advising residents to follow safety protocols known as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.”
Insurance Considerations
Many residents in the area, due to the recent swarm, are reconsidering their insurance options. Previously, a number of individuals were uninsured against earthquakes; however, the recent seismic activity has prompted some, including Mitchell, to explore acquiring earthquake insurance. It is important to note that standard homeowners insurance in South Carolina generally does not cover earthquake damage, necessitating separate earthquake coverage, which can come with steep deductibles ranging from 10% to 20% of the coverage limit.
In light of the increasing awareness surrounding earthquake risks, state lawmakers are currently reviewing a bill that would require insurance companies to offer earthquake coverage to homeowners and provide clear disclosures regarding coverage limits.
Future of the Swarm
It remains uncertain how long this earthquake swarm will persist, but experts have stated that although the tremors may be unsettling, they do not currently pose a significant danger. Thomas Pratt, a research geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey, affirmed that while small earthquakes are not uncommon in the Eastern U.S., the frequency of this current series is indeed unusual. Residents are advised to remain calm, as the risk of these swarms leading to larger earthquakes is deemed low.
Local authorities strongly encourage residents to be well-prepared for any seismic events, regardless of their magnitude, and to proactively implement measures that ensure the safety of both people and property.
FAQ
What is causing the recent earthquake swarm in Greenwood County?
The swarm is believed to be influenced by Reservoir Induced Seismicity, where rising lake levels exert pressure on geological faults, causing them to slip.
How many earthquakes have occurred in Greenwood County recently?
Since August 19, 2025, Greenwood County has recorded at least 17 earthquakes in the month of August.
What precautions should residents take during this earthquake swarm?
Residents are advised to secure heavy items, create safe spots in their homes, and maintain emergency kits with essential supplies.
Is earthquake insurance necessary for Greenwood County residents?
Since standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover earthquake damage, residents may want to consider purchasing separate earthquake insurance due to the current increased risk.
Key Features of Greenwood County Earthquake Swarm
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | August 19, 2025 |
| Total Tremors Recorded | At least 17 in August |
| Strongest Tremor Magnitude | 3.0 |
| Key Affected Areas | Lake Greenwood, Coronaca, Northwestern Shoreline |
| Normal Annual Earthquakes in South Carolina | 10 to 15 |
| Recommended Precautions | Secure heavy items, establish safe spots, maintain emergency kits |
| Insurance Considerations | Separate earthquake coverage may be necessary; standard policies do not cover earthquake damage |
| Future Projections | Uncertain duration; experts say low risk of larger earthquakes |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Earthquake Swarm Rocks Greenwood County, South Carolina
Horry County Experiences Significant Increase in Earthquakes
Minor Earthquake Recorded in Greenwood County
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
Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Earthquake Swarm Shakes Greenwood County
- WLTX: South Carolina Earthquakes at Lake Greenwood
- WSPA: Cause Still Uncertain for Lake Greenwood Earthquakes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Earthquake
- WYFF: Earthquakes Reported in Greenwood County
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.
