Columbia Shaken by Mystery Sonic Boom; Officials Weigh Aircraft vs. Meteor Theories

A loud boom and ground shaking were reported around Columbia, SC, on May 28, 2026. The USGS says the event is consistent with a sonic boom rather than an earthquake, Shaw Air Force Base reported no related flight activity, and NASA found no meteor fireball or satellite detections. While some speculated about a meteor, NASA officials consider it unlikely. Most sonic booms are attributed to aircraft traveling faster than sound, and authorities encouraged residents to report any damage. No damage was initially reported.