Shake-Out 2021 : Earthquake Preparedness - Yes, even in South Carolina

Although the Palmetto State isn't exactly known as an earthquake zone, our history says otherwise. South Carolina is an active seismic zone with an average of 10 to 15 earthquakes a year with 3 to 5 per year of significant strength to be noticed by the population. 

According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Geological Survey "In South Carolina, approximately 70 percent of the earthquakes occur in the Coastal Plain and most are clustered around three areas west and north of Charleston: Ravenel-Adams Run-Hollywood, Middleton Place Plantation-Summerville, and Bowman." The strongest of the South Carolina earthquakes in recorded history happened in 1886. On the last day of August of that year, the Charleston earthquake caused 60 deaths and rattled most of the east coast of the United States including Beaufort County. In fact, there has been seismic activity reported on the local news within the past month. 

In other words, earthquakes are not uncommon in South Carolina - though thankfully most tremors felt within the past 100 years or so have been comparatively weak.  

Therefore, it is important for people in South Carolina - and Beaufort County, South Carolina - to know what to do in case there is another - and stronger - earthquake than the more recent tremors. There won’t be time when one hits to tell people what to do. The purpose of the Shake Out is to better prepare folks to survive an earthquake. The Shake Out website includes preparedness videos and flyers, PowerPoint presentations to lead an earthquake drill for schools, workplaces, and home use, and graphics to use in social media that you can view and review to prepare for the "next big one." 

An interesting fact: Beaufort County is certified "Tsunami Ready" in case a tidal wave is caused by an earthquake. Fortunately, the County is at relatively low risk for a tsunami though the recruits on Parris Island and vacationers on Hilton Head Island and Harbor Island may want to review the brochure produced by the Beaufort County Emergency Management Division and the Town of Hilton Head Island Emergency Management Division. 

You can find additional information about the Palmetto State's earthquakes on the South Carolina Emergency Management Division's website.