A minor earthquake measuring 2.2 on the Richter scale occurred in the vicinity of Elgin, South Carolina, at approximately 3:00 am this morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The epicenter of the tremor was located approximately 3.5 miles east-southeast of Elgin and 17 miles east-northeast of Forest Acres, as per the USGS report. While minor earthquakes often go unnoticed, residents in the surrounding areas, including Irmo, Blythewood, and Lugoff, reported a sensation of ground movement.

This event follows a previously reported tremor near Jenkinsville, located approximately 30 miles from Elgin, at approximately 12:00 am on Friday. Notably, the Jenkinsville earthquake occurred at a significantly greater depth of over 6 kilometers, compared to the shallower depth of 2.7 kilometers for the Elgin event.

The 2.2 magnitude registered on the Richter scale classifies this earthquake as a minor event. Earthquakes of this magnitude typically go undetected or cause minimal effects at best. The USGS records millions of such low-magnitude earthquakes annually.

Overall, earthquakes are not very common in Columbia but can happen. About 10 to 15 earthquakes are recorded in the state each year, and about 3 to 5 of those are felt or noticed by people. While the earthquakes in South Carolina are generally small and do not cause significant damage, it’s still important to be prepared and know what to do in case of an earthquake.