1.6-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northwestern South Carolina Early Sunday Morning

A 1.6-magnitude earthquake was recorded in northwestern South Carolina early on February 9. The quake occurred around 1:30 a.m. near Lake Jocassee in Pickens County. While no damage was reported, it was felt by residents as far as Spartanburg and Anderson. This incident marks the state’s third earthquake in 2025.

A low-magnitude earthquake with a magnitude of 1.6 occurred early on Sunday morning in northwestern South Carolina, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake struck around 1:30 a.m. on February 9, with its epicenter located in Pickens County, approximately one mile east of Lake Jocassee, near Cane Creek Road. The earthquake was measured at a depth of 1.9 kilometers.

Despite the seismic activity, no damage has been reported; however, 11 individuals across various areas, including Spartanburg and Anderson, indicated that they felt the tremor. This incident represents the third recorded earthquake in South Carolina for the year 2025, following a 1.9-magnitude quake near Jenkinsville on January 8 and a 2.0-magnitude quake near Elgin on January 31.

Although South Carolina is generally not synonymous with frequent seismic events, minor earthquakes do occur, particularly in the Midlands and northwestern regions of the state. The USGS remains vigilant, monitoring ongoing seismic activity in the area, ensuring public awareness of such occurrences.

In summary, a 1.6-magnitude earthquake struck northwestern South Carolina early on February 9, specifically in Pickens County. Though no damage was inflicted, the tremor was felt by several individuals in surrounding areas. This earthquake continues a sporadic trend of seismic activity in South Carolina as the USGS monitors the region’s seismicity.

Original Source: www.newsbreak.com