2.13 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Elgin, South Carolina
Event Details
Reports were confirmed on Sunday, September 15, 2024, of a 2.13 magnitude earthquake that occurred a day earlier east-southeast of Elgin, South Carolina. The tremor was reported and verified by the United States Geological Survey.
Location and Timing
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the tremor was centered approximately 6 kilometers east-southeast of Elgin. The earthquake, which struck around 2:46 p.m. local time on Saturday, September 14, was felt by residents in the nearby vicinity. While earthquakes of this magnitude are typically not destructive, they can be distinctly felt by those near the epicenter.
Residential Reaction
Residents in the area reported feeling a slight rumbling, leading to initial confusion before the cause of the tremor was confirmed to be an earthquake. However, there were no immediate reports of any personal injuries or property damage caused by the quake.
Historic Seismic Activity in the Region
In the past, South Carolina has experienced several earthquakes, but none have proven to be significantly damaging or result in fatalities. The state is not a high seismic activity region compared to areas like California or Alaska, however, minor tremors are not uncommon.
What to Do During an Earthquake
In light of the recent tremor, local authorities recommend that residents review safety guidelines for earthquakes. This includes bombarding practices such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” which instructs individuals to drop to their hands and knees, cover their head and neck with their arms, and if possible, take shelter under a sturdy piece of furniture until the shaking stops.
Conclusion
While a 2.13 magnitude earthquake may not typically cause personal injury or serious property damage, it serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared in case of a larger seismic event. The USGS encourages individuals to stay informed about local seismic activity and to regularly review and update their personal safety plans.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
