Irmo, South Carolina, February 16, 2026
A magnitude 2.8 earthquake rattled Irmo, South Carolina, on February 13, 2026, at 6:43 PM. Felt by residents in Irmo and surrounding areas, initial reports confirm no significant damage or injuries. The tremor’s epicenter was close to North Lake Drive, originating at a shallow depth. Residents reported noticeable shaking and an ‘explosion sound’. This event also marks the largest earthquake recorded in Irmo this week, amidst ongoing minor seismic activity in the state.
Irmo, South Carolina Experiences Latest Seismic Activity
A magnitude 2.8 earthquake rattled the area near Irmo, South Carolina, on Friday, February 13, 2026, at approximately 6:43 PM local time (23:43 UTC). This seismic event, confirmed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), was widely felt by residents in Irmo and surrounding communities, including those in Lexington County and areas around Lake Murray. Initial assessments indicate that despite being clearly noticeable, the earthquake did not result in any significant damage or injuries.
Details of the Recent Tremor
The tremor’s epicenter was initially pinpointed near the Hollywood Point and Yacht Cove areas of Lake Murray, though authorities later refined its location to closer to North Lake Drive as seismological data was further analyzed. The earthquake originated at a shallow depth, estimated to be between approximately 3.0 kilometers and 5.0 kilometers (or 0.76 to 3 miles) below the surface. This shallow depth is a key factor in why even a relatively minor earthquake can be distinctly felt by those in the vicinity.
Residents across Irmo and neighboring localities reported experiencing a sudden jolt, often accompanied by an “explosion sound” and noticeable shaking of homes and objects. The rapid onset of the tremor led to numerous calls from concerned individuals. According to USGS data, over 100 people quickly reported feeling the earthquake through official channels, aiding seismologists in understanding the event’s reach and impact.
Earthquakes of this specific magnitude are generally classified as minor events. While they can cause widespread alarm due to the unexpected nature of ground movement, they are typically not expected to cause structural damage to well-built buildings or infrastructure. The primary effects are usually limited to perceptible shaking and the unsettling sounds reported by those in the affected areas.
South Carolina’s Ongoing Seismic Activity
This 2.8 magnitude earthquake stands as the largest earthquake recorded in Irmo this week, this month, and this year, according to available seismic data for events of magnitude 1.5 or greater. While this event was locally reported as the second seismic activity in the Irmo area within a three-day span, official USGS-aggregated data for Irmo specifically registered one earthquake of magnitude 1.5 or greater in the past seven days, which refers to this 2.8 magnitude event. The state of South Carolina as a whole experiences frequent, though mostly minor, seismic activity. In the past seven days, the state has recorded six earthquakes of magnitude 1.5 or greater, demonstrating an active geological landscape. As of the most recent reporting, there have been zero earthquakes of magnitude 1.5 or greater in South Carolina in the past 24 hours.
Regions such as Elgin and Lugoff are also known for experiencing recurrent minor seismic events, contributing to South Carolina’s designation as a state with ongoing, albeit low-level, earthquake activity. [cite: 4, 7 from prompt] The proximity of the recent Irmo epicenter to Lake Murray dam has garnered some public concern, a common reaction when seismic events occur near significant infrastructure.
Community Response and Monitoring Efforts
The prompt reporting by residents plays a crucial role in the work of seismologists. The USGS and other scientific organizations actively monitor seismic activity and rely on public input to gather comprehensive data on how earthquakes are felt across different areas. These reports help in refining epicenter locations, depth assessments, and understanding local ground responses. Citizens are encouraged to report any felt tremors through official USGS channels, contributing valuable information to the ongoing study of seismic patterns. Continuous monitoring and data analysis are essential for enhancing geological understanding and informing public safety measures regarding earthquake preparedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the magnitude of the recent earthquake in Irmo?
- The recent earthquake near Irmo, South Carolina, had a magnitude of 2.8.
- When did the earthquake occur?
- The earthquake occurred on Friday, February 13, 2026, at approximately 6:43 PM local time (23:43 UTC).
- Where was the epicenter of the earthquake?
- The epicenter was near Irmo, South Carolina, initially reported near the Hollywood Point and Yacht Cove areas of Lake Murray, and later refined to closer to North Lake Drive.
- Did the earthquake cause any damage?
- Initial reports indicate that the earthquake typically did not cause damage, which is common for tremors of this magnitude.
- How many earthquakes has South Carolina experienced recently?
- South Carolina has experienced six earthquakes of magnitude 1.5 or greater in the past seven days.
Key Information Summary: Irmo Earthquake
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Irmo, South Carolina, near Lake Murray |
| Magnitude | 2.8 |
| Date/Time | Friday, February 13, 2026, 6:43 PM local time (23:43 UTC) |
| Depth | Approximately 3.0 km to 5.0 km (0.76 to 3 miles) |
| Reported Effects | “Explosion sound” and shaking felt by over 100 people. No significant damage expected. |
| Prior Activity in Irmo (M1.5+) | 1 earthquake in the past 7 days (the 2.8 magnitude event). |
| Prior Activity in SC (M1.5+) | 6 earthquakes in the past 7 days (State-level). |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Irmo Officials Chart Course for Safer Roads
Irmo Boosts Park Access for All Residents
Lexington County Feels Tremor: Community Resilience in Focus
Irmo Community Reacts to Lake Murray Earthquake
2.8 Magnitude Earthquake Confirmed Near Irmo
Lake Murray Area Experiences Notable Tremor
Irmo Experiences 2.8 Magnitude Earthquake
Minor Earthquake Hits Near Irmo, South Carolina
Clear and Cool Conditions in Irmo, SC, on December 22, 2025
Historic Property in Charleston Sold for $13.65 Million
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.
