Columbia, SC – A meteor exploded over Georgia early Thursday afternoon, sending shockwaves and fireball sightings across both Georgia and South Carolina, prompting emergency calls and ongoing response efforts from local authorities.
According to multiple sources, the meteor entered the atmosphere at 12:24 p.m. Eastern and exploded over the Atlanta area, triggering more than 100 eyewitness reports from Georgia through the Midlands of South Carolina. The GOES East satellite confirmed a bright atmospheric flash with no accompanying lightning, indicating a meteor detonation.
Lexington County Fire Department and the Cayce Fire Department in South Carolina responded to multiple calls reporting what witnesses described as “fireballs falling out of the sky.” Reports clustered around major highways including I-77, I-26, and I-20. Columbia officials also received similar calls within minutes of the initial explosion.
In Henry County, Georgia, a homeowner reportedly discovered damage to their roof consistent with meteorite impact. Images shared by WSB-TV/11Alive show puncture marks and debris suspected to be from the fallen space rock.
Initial sightings began around 12:25 p.m., with witnesses across the Southeast describing a fast-moving object emitting bright light followed by a loud boom. Experts believe the meteor fragmented after entering the atmosphere, possibly scattering small meteorites across rural areas between Georgia and South Carolina.
Authorities have not issued any danger warnings but are asking residents who find any suspicious debris to report it to emergency services or scientific organizations rather than handle it themselves.
No injuries have been reported, and investigations into potential impact sites remain ongoing across both states.
