4.1-magnitude earthquake strikes near Sidney, B.C.

A moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 4.1 struck 42 km east of Sidney, B.C. early Monday morning. The tremor, which occurred at 5:02 a.m. PT, was lightly felt in areas around Victoria and Vancouver, as reported by Earthquakes Canada. Initially, the earthquake was recorded as a 4.5 magnitude but was later revised to a 4.1.

The epicenter of the earthquake was near Orcas Island, Wash., situated between Vancouver and Seattle and just south of B.C.’s Southern Gulf Islands. Fortunately, there have been no reports of damage, and no public alert was issued due to the magnitude and intensity falling below the threshold for potential harm. Additionally, there is no risk of a tsunami resulting from this seismic activity.

This recent earthquake follows a 4.7-magnitude quake near Sechelt on Feb. 21 and a 5.0-magnitude quake on Feb. 24 off the coast of Port Alice on northern Vancouver Island.

Numerous individuals in the region reported feeling the shaking caused by the earthquake. Erin Stockill of the Saanich Emergency Program shared that this was the first time she experienced an earthquake, stating that it woke her up. Residents across Vancouver Island also reported feeling the tremor, with seismologists confirming that the earthquake was felt over a wide area from Courtenay to Tacoma, Wash.

Although the earthquake was not considered significant, it was shallow and located in a densely populated region, making it more perceptible to residents. Seismologists emphasized that while there have been several recent earthquakes felt in Victoria, such occurrences are common in the region.

Authorities advised residents to fill out the Earthquakes Canada “Did you feel it?” form to provide valuable data on ground shaking in urban areas. Stockill highlighted the importance of earthquake preparedness, urging individuals to drop, find cover, and hold on during an earthquake. She emphasized the need for residents to have an earthquake kit stocked with essential supplies such as water, medication, flashlights, and batteries.

In light of the recent seismic activity, it is crucial for British Columbians to remain prepared for future earthquakes. Following safety protocols and regularly updating earthquake preparedness kits can help mitigate risks and ensure the safety of individuals and communities in the event of a natural disaster.