Earthquakes
South Carolina Earthquake Drill Set for Thursday at 10:15 AM
Charleston, SC – South Carolina residents are being urged to review earthquake safety precautions as Earthquake Preparedness Week begins Sunday, October 11, and continues through Saturday, October 17.
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-12T00:54:20.194Z
Charleston, SC – South Carolina residents are being urged to review earthquake safety precautions as Earthquake Preparedness Week begins Sunday, October 11, and continues through Saturday, October 17. Officials are highlighting significant earthquake hazards in the Lowcountry, where potentially damaging shaking remains a concern despite major earthquakes being relatively uncommon.
According to the National Weather Service and earthquake preparedness materials featuring U.S. Geological Survey hazard mapping, South Carolina's Lowcountry faces some of the highest earthquake shaking hazards along the eastern United States.
The Charleston area, including Charleston County, Berkeley County and Dorchester County, sits within a historically active seismic region. The region experienced one of the most destructive earthquakes in U.S. history on August 31, 1886, when a powerful earthquake devastated portions of Charleston and caused widespread damage.
Although major earthquakes are infrequent, smaller seismic events continue to occur across South Carolina, reminding residents that earthquake hazards are not limited to California or the West Coast.
Statewide Earthquake Drill Scheduled Thursday A major focus of this week's awareness campaign is the Great Southeast ShakeOut, scheduled for Thursday, October 15, at 10:15 a.m.
Residents, schools, businesses and organizations are encouraged to participate by practicing three earthquake safety actions:
DROP: Get onto your hands and knees to avoid being knocked down. COVER: Protect your head and neck, preferably beneath a sturdy desk or table. HOLD ON: Remain protected until shaking stops. What South Carolina Residents Should Know Earthquake hazard maps identify areas with greater potential for damaging ground shaking, but they do not predict when an earthquake will occur.
Residents are encouraged to secure heavy furniture, identify safe shelter locations and establish family emergency plans.
No imminent earthquake is being forecast by this preparedness announcement. The campaign emphasizes readiness rather than warning of a specific seismic event.
Residents can register for Thursday's drill at ShakeOut.org