3.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Central South Carolina

On Thursday afternoon, a 3.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Columbia, South Carolina, causing a brief jolt felt by many residents. The tremor, which originated 9 kilometers deep, was reported at 12:17 PM local time. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. Social media users shared their experiences, describing the sudden shaking and vibrations. The United States Geological Survey confirmed the event shortly after it occurred. This article explores the details of the earthquake and the public's reactions on social media.
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3.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Central South Carolina

Earthquake Details

A 3.4 magnitude earthquake rattled the area near Saint Andrews and central South Carolina, particularly Columbia, on Thursday afternoon. The tremor was reported by numerous social media users, who felt a sudden jolt that lasted just a few seconds. The earthquake struck at 5:17 PM UTC, which corresponds to 12:17 PM local time, originating from a depth of 9 kilometers. It was felt over a broad area, including Columbia, located approximately 22 kilometers northwest of the epicenter.

Residents throughout central South Carolina reported experiencing the sudden shaking. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. The initial information was provided by GeoTech War, an organization that monitors seismic activities globally.

The United States Geological Survey quickly confirmed the occurrence of the tremor. Many locals described the experience as a sharp jolt followed by brief vibrations.


Public Reactions on Social Media

Social Media Reactions

Numerous users on X shared their experiences regarding the earthquake. One user remarked, "Holy earthquake in Columbia, how did I notice that but not in AK????" Another user questioned, "Did anyone in northwest Columbia, S.C. just feel a little rumble? Possible earthquake? We definitely felt some vibrations at the FITSNews world headquarters... (12:17 p.m. EST - 2/26/2026)."

Another user commented, "Anyone hear or feel this one? Nearly a magnitude 3 tremor just northwest of Columbia at 12:17 PM today." Additionally, one user noted, "Magnitude 3.0 earthquake on Lake Murray, near Columbia, SC this afternoon!" Another expressed, "Did anyone in Columbia SC just feel an #earthquake? I heard this loud rumbling and then a bang sound." One more user questioned, "Columbia South Carolina earthquake or I’m tripping?"