Mount Pleasant Magazine Jan/Feb 2018

211 www.MPMcalendar.com | www.BestOfMP.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com feature Estimates show more than 14,000 chimneys fell, water lines ruptured and multiple fires broke out around the city. The quake even caused church bells to ring in Boston and New York. Local experts now continuously monitor the ongoing seismic activity in the Lowcountry and work with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ensure the city and surrounding areas are prepared for such an occurrence. Dr. Erin Beutel, an associate geology professor at the College of Charleston, said the risk has always been present. Quakes are common, but most register only 2 to 2.5 on the Richter Scale. “There are tons of fault lines, with two that line up just perfectly, so when being pushed on, they’re taking on all the built-up stress of the whole region,” she explained. “We register 10 to 15 minor earthquakes a year, but often people don’t even notice.” While it’s impossible to control seismic hazards, extensive building codes have been put in place over the years to protect buildings, and, more importantly, to save lives. These codes require architects, contractors A man stands in front of a wrecked brick house on Tradd Street in Charleston. Above: Destruction at the corner of Cumberland and East Bay streets. Below: the portico of Hibernain Hall was demolished.