On the evening of August 31, 1886, Charleston, South Carolina, was shaken by a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that lasted nearly a minute. The disaster left more than 60 people dead and caused $5–6 million in damages at the time — making it the most destructive earthquake in the history of the southeastern United States.
The Devastation of 1886
The worst damage stretched from Charleston to Summerville, but the quake’s reach was staggering. Structural damage was reported as far away as Alabama, Ohio, Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia, while tremors were felt in Boston, Milwaukee, Chicago, Cuba, and Bermuda.
Many victims died not only during the quake but also in the weeks afterward, as families lived outdoors in parks and streets, exposed to the elements and disease.
If an earthquake of similar size struck Charleston today, experts with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimate it could lead to 900 deaths and billions of dollars in damages, given the city’s growth and development since the 19th century.
South Carolina’s Seismic Activity
While earthquakes aren’t rare in South Carolina, most are so small that people don’t notice them. The state typically records 10 to 20 quakes a year, especially in the Lowcountry near Summerville and Ladson, where a major fault line runs underground.
Recently, a swarm of small earthquakes has been detected in Greenwood County, with magnitudes ranging from 1.5 to 3.0. The strongest so far measured 2.9.
Robert Cribbin, Greenwood’s Emergency Management Coordinator, said the events are being monitored closely but that federal officials aren’t alarmed.
Dr. Daniel Frost, a seismology professor at the University of South Carolina, reassured residents:
“These earthquakes are shallow, small, and on very old faults. The likelihood of them getting larger is extremely low.”
Preparedness Is Key
Even though large earthquakes are rare, officials urge residents to be prepared. Kim Stenson, director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD), stressed the importance of readiness:
“Earthquakes can happen anywhere in South Carolina, and they often occur without warning. We want every household to be informed, prepared, and resilient before the next event.”
The SCEMD provides a free earthquake preparedness guide that explains:
South Carolina’s earthquake history
How to prepare your home and family
Safety steps during a quake
Recovery and resilience tips
Be Prepared, Not Scared
South Carolina’s history — and Charleston’s 1886 tragedy — are reminders that earthquakes are possible in the state. While most quakes are minor, preparedness can save lives if a larger one strikes again.
As emergency officials say, “Preparedness is key. Taking a few simple steps today can make a big difference when an earthquake happens.”
