Shaking felt across southwest B.C. after 4.7-magnitude earthquake hits coast
A recent minor earthquake rattled B.C.’s Sunshine Coast, causing homes to shake and triggering emergency alerts across the Lower Mainland. Fortunately, there was no major damage reported following the 4.7-magnitude quake near the seaside community of Sechelt.
Despite being felt across Vancouver Island, Metro Vancouver, and the Fraser Valley, no injuries or significant structural issues were reported, aside from some cracked drywall and burst pipes. Many residents noted that it was the most noticeable earthquake they had experienced in some time.
One resident, Jackie Graham from Courtenay on Vancouver Island, described hearing a loud boom and feeling her house shake. She initially thought a tree had fallen on her home. Earthquakes Canada initially recorded the magnitude as high as 5.4 but later revised it to 4.7, classifying it as a minor event.
Adults at work and children in schools followed earthquake safety protocols, taking cover under desks or quickly evacuating buildings. The manager of an IGA grocery store in Sechelt described the sensation as similar to a car driving into the mall, with the shaking lasting around 10 to 20 seconds.
B.C. Ferries briefly evacuated and inspected its Horseshoe Bay terminal in West Vancouver, a vital transportation link in the region. The terminal was soon reopened, with some sailings experiencing delays.
The earthquake was felt as far east as Peachland in the Okanagan and down to parts of Washington state. It also triggered the Canadian Earthquake Early Warning system, providing advanced notice to those in areas where strong shaking could occur. The U.S. Geological Survey measured the quake at 4.8, slightly higher than Earthquakes Canada’s measurement.
An aftershock measuring 1.9 in magnitude was recorded shortly after the initial quake. Sheri Molnar, a seismic activity expert from Western University, emphasized the importance of being prepared for earthquakes, as the region experiences significant seismic events every decade or so.
Emergency Info B.C. confirmed that there was no tsunami threat following the earthquake. Officials urged residents to prepare emergency kits and create family plans in case of future disasters. The earthquake serves as a reminder of the importance of being ready for unexpected events and ensuring the safety of oneself and loved ones.
