5 Of The Most Catastrophic Natural Disasters in the History of Charleston, SC and the Lowcountry
By Mark A. Leon
Charleston, South Carolina has experienced several significant disasters throughout its history. Here are 5 of the most catastrophic disasters in the history.
1. The Sea Islands Hurricane of 1893: This Category 3 hurricane caused massive destruction in Charleston and the surrounding areas. It resulted in at least 2,000 deaths in South Carolina, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in the state’s history.
2. The Charleston Earthquake of 1886: On August 31, 1886, a 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck Charleston, causing widespread damage. While the exact number of casualties is not provided, it was a significant event that resulted in numerous deaths and injuries.
Aftermath of the Charleston Earthquake of 1886
3. The Great Hurricane of 1752: This powerful hurricane made landfall just south of Charleston, producing severe storm surge flooding and causing at least 95 deaths. It is considered one of the worst storms to ever hit Charleston.
4. Hurricane Hugo in 1989: While the exact casualty count for Charleston is not provided, Hugo caused significant damage to the city. The storm’s center passed near Charleston with hurricane-force winds, including a 109 mph gust recorded at Shaw Air Force Base.
5. The Charleston tornado of 1938: On September 29, 1938, a trio of tornadoes hit Charleston, demolishing the City Market. 27 fatalities and 80 injuries were attributed, mainly from collapsing buildings.
These events highlight the vulnerability of Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry to various natural disasters, including hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes, which have caused significant loss of life and property damage throughout the city’s history.
Additional Resource Articles
Charleston Daily
Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.