Earthquake Preparedness Week Declared Amid Rising Seismic Activity in Coronaca

Earthquake Alerts in Coronaca: What You Need to Know

Coronaca, a charming little town nestled in Greenwood County, has become the talk of the town—or should we say, the *shaking* of the town! As residents enjoy a beautiful sunny day with temperatures reaching a pleasant 63°F and light winds from the north, they can’t seem to shake off the recent *earthquake activity* that has rattled their community over the last few days.

A Series of Quakes

Yes, you read that right! Just this Tuesday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported a 1.51 magnitude earthquake that struck at 7:13 a.m. The quake had a relatively shallow depth of just 4 kilometers, which is part of why so many folks in and around Coronaca have felt the trembles. Since the series of earthquakes started on October 10, this town has now experienced a total of ten small earthquakes, with a notable spike on October 13, when eight earthquakes were recorded.

Residents might be feeling a mix of fascination and concern. “It’s a little unnerving,” one local said. “It’s not something you expect to happen here.” And they’re not alone—this increase in seismic activity has prompted Governor Henry McMaster to officially declare October 13-19 as *Earthquake Preparedness Week*. A perfect reminder for everyone to brush up on safety measures!

Great SouthEast ShakeOut

In line with the preparedness theme, this October 17 at *10:17 a.m.*, communities across eight states and Washington, D.C., will participate in the annual Great SouthEast ShakeOut. This popular earthquake safety drill gives everyone a chance to practice the important technique known as “*Drop, Cover, and Hold On*.” It’s a simple yet effective way to protect oneself if an earthquake were to hit.

So, what exactly does “*Drop, Cover, and Hold On*” mean? Well, during an earthquake, you’re advised to drop down on your hands and knees, cover your head and neck (or even your entire body, if you can) under something sturdy, and hold on until the shaking stops. It’s a method taught in schools and workplaces, and it’s vital knowledge for everyone in earthquake-prone areas.

Stay Prepared and Informed

Residents are encouraged to take these quakes seriously and ensure they are prepared should future tremors occur. The USGS and local authorities provide valuable information that can help families plan for earthquakes. This can include creating emergency kits, establishing communication plans, and securing heavy furniture.

A Day to Stay Informed

As the sun shines down and people enjoy this fall day with families, it’s also a good time to discuss the recent seismic activity. Why not have a little get-together with your neighbors after the ShakeOut exercise? Sharing tips on emergency preparedness can be a fun and constructive way to bring the community closer together, while also ensuring everyone is ready, just in case.

Conclusion

While a bit of nervousness is certainly understandable in light of these recent events, Coronaca residents can take comfort in knowing they are part of a proactive community. With gorgeous weather outside, it’s a great day to get outside and enjoy the beauty of this little town while also engaging in some preparedness activities with your neighbors. Here’s to safety, sunshine, and togetherness!