Greenwood County, South Carolina, August 20, 2025
News Summary
Greenwood County, South Carolina, was rocked by two earthquakes within hours of each other, measuring 2.2 and 1.7 on the Richter scale. Fortunately, there were no injuries or damages reported. The first quake struck late Monday night, while a second tremor followed early Tuesday morning. These incidents add to the state’s increasing number of seismic activities in recent years, raising concerns among residents. Seismologists continue to study the causes behind these events, although no immediate threats are anticipated.
Greenwood County, South Carolina Hit by Two Earthquakes
Greenwood County, South Carolina experienced two earthquakes in a short period, raising local concerns yet resulting in no reported injuries or damages. The first quake measured 2.211:30 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025. Just hours later, a second quake registered 1.73:08 a.m. on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
The epicenter for the 2.22.4 miles north-northwest1.73.1 miles southeast of the same community. The depth of the first quake was nearly 2.5 miles3 miles.
These seismic events marked the 13th14th2025. Before these incidents, the last recorded earthquake in the state was on August 9, producing a magnitude of 1.75 in the Myrtle Beach area. Notably, both earthquakes are the first registered in the Coronaca area this year, although the area had experienced significant seismic activity late last year. In October 2024, Coronaca experienced nine earthquakes within a six-day span.
According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR), South Carolina recorded a total of 30 earthquakes in 2024 and 282023. Historically, the state is not commonly affected by quakes that stray far from the Midlands, especially outside of Kershaw County, which has seen 69 confirmed earthquakes since June 2022. The strongest earthquakes in the previous decades struck on June 29, 2022, with magnitudes of 3.5 and 3.6.
The recent seismic activity appears to resonate with a history of tremors in the Coronaca area. Anyone who felt the earth shake during these events is encouraged to report their experiences to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The South Carolina Emergency Management Division classified these overnight tremors as micro quakes on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale, which means they are generally too weak for most people to notice.
Since the beginning of 2022, South Carolina has recorded a total of 147 earthquakes, primarily located in the Midlands. Despite this surge in activity, seismologists are unable to pinpoint the exact reasons for the increased seismic activity, with some attributing it to conditions linked to the Wateree River. Importantly, the ongoing minor quakes do not necessarily forecast stronger seismic events in the future.
Historically, the most powerful earthquake in South Carolina occurred in 1886 in Charleston, registering a magnitude of 7.3 that was felt from Cuba to New York. The state typically experiences between six and ten earthquakes per year. In light of the recent tremors, residents are advised to review their earthquake preparedness plans, including securing heavy items and checking their insurance policies.
FAQ Section
What happened in Greenwood County, South Carolina?
Two earthquakes were recorded in Greenwood County within hours of each other, with magnitudes of 2.2 and 1.7, respectively.
When did the earthquakes occur?
The first earthquake occurred at 11:30 p.m. on August 18, 2025, and the second at 3:08 a.m. on August 19, 2025.
What were the locations of the earthquakes?
The epicenter of the first quake was about 2.4 miles north-northwest of Coronaca, while the second quake was located approximately 3.1 miles southeast of Coronaca.
Were there any injuries or damages reported?
No injuries or damages have been reported from either of the earthquakes.
How many earthquakes has South Carolina experienced in 2025?
As of August 19, 2025, South Carolina has recorded 14 confirmed earthquakes this year.
How do these recent earthquakes compare to past seismic activity in the state?
Significant seismic activity was noted in the Coronaca area in late 2024 and historically, the strongest recorded earthquake was a magnitude of 7.3 in 1886.
Key Features of the Earthquakes in Greenwood County
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| First Earthquake | Magnitude 2.2 at 11:30 p.m. on August 18, 2025 |
| Second Earthquake | Magnitude 1.7 at 3:08 a.m. on August 19, 2025 |
| Location of First Earthquake | 2.4 miles north-northwest of Coronaca |
| Location of Second Earthquake | 3.1 miles southeast of Coronaca |
| Depth of First Earthquake | 2.5 miles beneath the Earth’s surface |
| Depth of Second Earthquake | Over 3 miles beneath the Earth’s surface |
| Total Earthquakes in 2025 | 14 confirmed earthquakes |
| Last Recorded Earthquake Before These | Magnitude 1.75 in Myrtle Beach on August 9, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Minor Earthquake Shakes Elgin, South Carolina
Columbia Experiences 1.5 Magnitude Earthquake
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Earthquakes Reported in Greenwood County
- Wikipedia: Earthquake
- WBTV: Two Earthquakes Reported Near South Carolina Town
- Google Search: Earthquake South Carolina
- WXII12: Wednesday Earthquake Shakes South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Earthquakes in South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: Numerous Carolina Earthquakes This Week
- Google Scholar: Earthquake Activity in South Carolina
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.
