Eight earthquakes rattled the Upstate this weekend, each occurring in Greenwood County.
They also happened to occur during South Carolina’s “Earthquake Preparedness Awareness Week”, which runs from Oct. 13-19.
The United States Geological Survey reported the earthquakes on Sunday and is encouraging residents to learn about the state’s fault system.
Another earthquake was reported on Tuesday morning just seven miles east of Greenwood.
Here’s what to know about the earthquakes and how you and your family can prepare for one.
Where earthquakes were reported Sunday?
The US States Geological Survey recorded the following earthquakes near Coranaca and times:
∎ 3:48 a.m.: 2.4 magnitude, 3 kilometer depth
∎ 5:12 a.m.: 1.8 magnitude, 15 kilometer depth
∎ 7:50 a.m.: 1.8 magnitude, 0 kilometer depth
∎ 8:06 a.m.: 2.1 magnitude, 7 kilometer depth
∎ 9:09 a.m.: 2.5 magnitude, 4 kilometer depth
∎ 9:49 a.m: 2.2 magnitude, 0 kilometer depth
∎ 1:39 p.m.: 2.1 magnitude, 11 kilometer depth
∎ 2:15 p.m.: 1.5 magnitude, 5 kilometer
What earthquake was reported on Tuesday?
A 1.5 magnitude earthquake was detected on Tuesday before 7:15 a.m.
How common are earthquakes in SC?
Residents should know that earthquakes are not uncommon in S.C. According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Geological Survey, approximately 70% of the state’s earthquakes occur in the Coastal Plain, with most clustered around three areas west and north of Charleston: Ravenel-Adams Run-Hollywood, Middleton Place-Summerville, and Bowman. A thick sequence of sediments hides these faults and geological structures related to the earthquakes. As a result, few clues to the causes of earthquakes in the Coastal Plain can be found at the surface. Geophysical techniques and recorded seismic activity are both utilized by scientists to look at these hidden geologic structures.
Will SC experience a major earthquake in the future?
There is a possibility that S.C. may experience a strong earthquake in the future. The answer of when remains uncertain. This is because the ability to predict when and where earthquakes will occur accurately is unavailable. Residents also need to know that a major earthquake that occurs anywhere within the Eastern US could greatly affect the state.
How to prepare before an earthquake, per the SCDNR
∎ Learn and practice first aid procedures.
∎ Be able to shut down all utilities in the home and have the necessary tools on hand.
∎ Keep the following emergency items on hand: a first-aid kit, important medicines, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, batteries, a three-day supply of water and nonperishable food, and a fire extinguisher.
∎ Secure heavy items with bolts and straps. Examples of heavy items include a bookcase, china cabinet, or water heater. Do not place heavy objects on shelves or heavy picture frames on walls where they could fall onto a bed.
What to do during an earthquake
∎ If you are at home during an earthquake, avoid windows and objects that may fall. Instead, get under a sturdy table, desk, or bed. You may also stand in the doorway.
∎ If you are in a public building, avoid elevators and stairways. Do not run for exits. Avoid outside walls and glass walls and get under a desk or table.
∎ If you are outside, move to an area free from the threat of falling trees, utility poles, or debris from buildings.
∎ If you are driving in a car, avoid bridges, underpasses, and overpasses. Safely bring the car to a stop and listen to the radio for emergency broadcast updates.
What to do after an earthquake
∎ After an earthquake, check others for injuries and assist as needed.
∎ Check for fires and extinguish them. Also, check for and correct conditions, such as spilled gasoline that may lead to a fire.
∎ Check appliances and gas, electric, and water lines for damage. Shut off damaged utilities.
∎ When outside, watch out for downed power lines.
∎ Telephones should only be used for emergencies.
∎ Be prepared for earthquake aftershocks.
You can read the South Carolina Earthquake Guide on SCDNR’s website for more tips on earthquake safety.
Nina Tran covers trending topics for The Greenville News. Reach her via email at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Earthquakes detected in Upstate during ‘Earthquake Preparedness Week’
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