Earthquake shakes South Carolina Lowcountry. Here’s where
A 2.4-magnitude earthquake shook a South Carolina community Wednesday.
The S.C. Emergency Management Division said in a social media post on X that the earthquake was recorded near Sangaree, a Lowcounty community close to Summerville, at 9:57 a.m.
The earthquake was centered more than 3 miles beneath the surface of the earth, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. At least 41 people self-reported feeling the quake as of Wednesday morning, although no damage was initially reported.
South Carolina frequently records small earthquakes from any of a number of fault lines that crisscross the state. This was the tenth reported earthquake of the year in the Palmetto State, and the first since since a 2.7-magnitude earthquake hit Edgefield on July 5. The Geological Survey estimates a normal year for South Carolina would produce six to 10 quakes, The State previously reported.
While South Carolina doesn’t have the scale of earthquakes of the West Coast, it is not immune from serious earthquake damage. In 1886, Charleston was at the epicenter of an estimated 7.3-magnitude earthquake that was likely the largest ever seen in the eastern United States. That quake brought down buildings across the city, killing 60 and causing $158 million in damage in 2020 adjusted figures.
A study by the Emergency Management Division estimates that a similar-seized quake in the region today would cause up to $20 billion in damage to buildings, roadways and utilities, as well as kill 900 people and injure around 45,000.
Emergency officials recommend securing items in your home against falling during an earthquake, except for gas-powered appliances which should have flexible connections to prevent breaking. Ceiling fans and hanging light fixtures should be secured, and homeowners should know how and where in the home to shut off their utilities.
Basic disaster supplies should include non-perishable food, safe drinking water, a first-aid kit, fire-extinguisher and a flashlight with extra batteries.
This story was originally published July 16, 2025 at 12:17 PM with the headline "Earthquake shakes South Carolina Lowcountry. Here’s where."
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