A small earthquake hit British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast on Friday, causing homes to shake and triggering emergency alerts throughout the Lower Mainland without resulting in significant damage. The earthquake, measuring 4.7 on the Richter scale, struck near Sechelt around 1:30 p.m. PT as reported by Earthquakes Canada. While the tremor was felt across Vancouver Island, Metro Vancouver, and the Fraser Valley, authorities confirmed no injuries or major structural issues, with only minor incidents like cracked drywall or burst pipes reported. Many individuals described it as the most significant earthquake they had felt in a while.
Residents recounted their experiences, with one person mentioning hearing a loud noise and feeling their house shake, initially mistaking it for a fallen tree. Earthquakes Canada initially reported the magnitude as 5.4 but later revised it to 4.7, categorizing it as a minor event. Workplaces and schools implemented earthquake drills, prompting adults to seek shelter under desks and children to evacuate to safety. B.C. Ferries briefly evacuated and inspected the Horseshoe Bay terminal in West Vancouver, a crucial link between the mainland, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast.
The earthquake was felt as far east as Peachland in the Okanagan region and into parts of Washington state. It activated the Canadian Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) system, providing advance notice before intense shaking occurs. The U.S. Geological Survey measured the earthquake at magnitude 4.8, slightly differing from Canadian seismographs. A magnitude-1.9 aftershock occurred at 2:40 p.m. PT.
Experts emphasized the importance of earthquake preparedness, following the event. Emergency Info B.C. confirmed no tsunami threat and emphasized the necessity of having emergency kits and family plans in place. Seismologist Sheri Molnar highlighted the sporadic occurrence of significant earthquakes in the region and stressed the need for readiness. Natural Resources Canada stated it would investigate reports of individuals not receiving alerts as expected during the earthquake.
In conclusion, the earthquake served as a reminder for residents to stay prepared for potential seismic events and to heed safety guidelines provided by government agencies.