Irmo, South Carolina, February 18, 2026
Residents in Irmo, South Carolina, experienced a third earthquake near Lake Murray, registering a magnitude of 1.8. This follows a 2.8 magnitude tremor on February 13 and a 2.0 magnitude quake on February 15. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the latest tremor occurred underneath the lake, approximately 3.1 miles west-southwest of Irmo, causing concern but no reports of injuries or significant damage. As the community remains aware of the ongoing seismic activity, experts emphasize that South Carolina occasionally experiences minor earthquakes without serious threats.
Irmo
A third earthquake has been confirmed near Lake Murray in Irmo, South Carolina, marking the third tremor to affect the area since the end of last week. The most recent seismic event, a 1.8 magnitude earthquake, occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026, around 6:44 p.m. EST. This follows two earlier quakes, a 2.8 magnitude tremor on Friday, February 13, 2026, and a 2.0 magnitude tremor on Sunday, February 15, 2026, indicating a notable cluster of seismic activity in the region. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the Monday earthquake, which was centered approximately 3.1 miles west-southwest of Irmo and originated underneath the waters of Lake Murray.
Recent Seismic Activity Near Lake Murray
The series of small earthquakes began on Friday, February 13, 2026, when a 2.8 magnitude earthquake rattled parts of the Midlands around 6:43 p.m. EST. Its epicenter was initially reported near Hollywood Point and Yacht Cove, later updated to be closer to North Lake Drive, about 4 kilometers west-southwest of Irmo in Lexington County. This tremor, occurring at a shallow depth, was felt by over 100 people within minutes of its occurrence. Residents in Irmo and western Columbia reported experiencing weak shaking, with some describing it as a sudden and startling jolt. Despite being widely felt, earthquakes of this magnitude are generally considered minor and rarely cause damage, and no immediate reports of injuries or structural damage were received.
Two days later, on Sunday, February 15, 2026, a 2.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Irmo area just before midnight. This second tremor occurred less than a mile away from both the Friday earthquake and the subsequent Monday quake, in an area near Highway 6.
The third confirmed earthquake in this cluster took place on Monday, February 16, 2026, at approximately 6:44 p.m. EST. This 1.8 magnitude earthquake was located about 3.1 miles west-southwest of Irmo, with its epicenter situated directly underneath the waters of Lake Murray. Several individuals in the immediate vicinity reported feeling this tremor.
Community Reaction and Expert Insights
The recent seismic activity has drawn attention from residents and experts alike. While many in the area felt the tremors, particularly the stronger 2.8 magnitude event, there have been no reports of injuries or significant property damage resulting from any of the three earthquakes. The occurrence of these multiple events has led to increased community awareness regarding seismic activity in South Carolina.
Experts monitoring seismic activity across the state have provided valuable context. South Carolina, particularly the Midlands and Lowcountry regions, does experience occasional small earthquakes. These tremors are typically minor and often go unnoticed by most, though shallow quakes, like those recently experienced, can be felt by those indoors or close to the epicenter. Scientists have not yet determined a specific cause for this particular cluster of quakes near Lake Murray. They would require observing a pattern or trend before drawing any conclusions about their origin.
Regarding concerns about Lake Murray itself, experts have stated that there is no perceived association between the earthquakes and the lake or its dam levels. River and dam lake levels at Lake Murray have shown no significant changes that would suggest a connection. Furthermore, residents are reassured that the Lake Murray dam is robust, and it would require a significantly larger earthquake than those recently experienced to pose any threat. While small aftershocks are always a possibility following such events, they are generally expected to be minor. Residents who feel earthquake activity in their area are encouraged to report it to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What was the most recent earthquake near Lake Murray?
- The most recent earthquake near Lake Murray was a 1.8 magnitude tremor that occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026, around 6:44 p.m. EST.
- How many earthquakes have occurred recently in the Irmo area?
- Three earthquakes have occurred in the Irmo area near Lake Murray since Friday, February 13, 2026.
- What were the magnitudes of the recent earthquakes?
- The earthquakes had magnitudes of 2.8 on Friday, February 13, 2026, 2.0 on Sunday, February 15, 2026, and 1.8 on Monday, February 16, 2026.
- Where were the epicenters of these earthquakes?
- The earthquakes were centered near Lake Murray in Irmo, with the Monday quake approximately 3.1 miles west-southwest of Irmo and occurring underneath the waters of the lake.
- Is seismic activity common in South Carolina?
- South Carolina experiences occasional small earthquakes, particularly in the Midlands and Lowcountry regions, though most are minor and often go unnoticed.
- Should residents be concerned about the Lake Murray dam?
- Experts have stated there is no need for concern regarding the Lake Murray dam, as a much larger earthquake would be required to cause any issues.
Key Features of Recent Irmo Earthquakes
| Date | Magnitude | Location (Approximate) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, February 13, 2026 | 2.8 | Near Lake Murray, about 3 miles southwest of Irmo | Felt by many residents; no damage reported. |
| Sunday, February 15, 2026 | 2.0 | Near Irmo, close to Highway 6 | Part of a series of tremors in the area. |
| Monday, February 16, 2026 | 1.8 | Underneath Lake Murray, 3.1 miles west-southwest of Irmo | Third tremor in the area since late last week. |
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Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
