Spartanburg County is threatened by natural and technological hazards. The threat posed by these hazards is both immediate (e.g., hazardous chemical spill, hurricane, tornado) and long-term (e.g., drought, chronic chemical release). These hazards have the potential to disrupt day-to-day activities, cause extensive property damage, and create mass casualties. Historically, the greatest risk was perceived to be from natural hazards (e.g., hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, floods, earthquakes). However, the continued expansion of chemical usage is raising the risk posed by technological hazards (e.g., hazardous chemical releases/spills) in South Carolina.

• S.C. Hazards Assessment 2002