A 3.5-magnitude earthquake occurred in the Strait of Georgia early Friday morning, lightly felt in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland. No damage was reported. This follows a series of recent earthquakes in the region, including a 4.2-magnitude quake detected off Vancouver Island.
In the early hours of Friday, a minor earthquake struck the Strait of Georgia, impacting Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland. The earthquake, which measured a magnitude of 3.5, occurred slightly after 2 a.m. and was located approximately 18 kilometers west of Delta and east of Ladysmith at a considerable depth of 65 kilometers. Observations reported to both Earthquakes Canada and the U.S. Geological Survey indicated that the shaking was lightly felt within the region, yet there were no reports of damage, nor were any anticipated. This most recent tremor follows another seismic event, recorded at 4 a.m. on September 26, which had a magnitude of 3.8. This earthquake was centered 11 kilometers east of Sidney and was deeply situated at nearly 55 kilometers below the earth’s surface. It generated sensations of shaking among hundreds of residents as far north as Nanaimo and Parksville, and southwards into Washington state. Additionally, on September 27, a stronger earthquake registering a magnitude of 4.2 was recorded off the west coast of Vancouver Island. This represented the latest in an ongoing series of seismic activities that have been occurring in southwestern British Columbia throughout the previous month. Given the circumstances concerning its distance from land and significant depth, it was understood that this earthquake would likely go unnoticed by the populace.
The region of southwestern British Columbia is known for its seismic activity, largely due to the tectonic dynamics at play between the Pacific and North American plates. Earthquakes can vary in intensity and impact, depending on factors such as their depth, proximity to populated areas, and geological conditions. The recent series of quakes, including the one that occurred in the Strait of Georgia, contributes to the ongoing monitoring efforts by Earthquakes Canada and similar organizations to ensure public safety and awareness.
In summary, the recent earthquake in the Strait of Georgia serves as a reminder of the seismic activities characteristic of southwestern British Columbia. Although the magnitude was relatively low and did not result in any damage, the incident underscores the necessity of vigilance and preparedness for such natural occurrences. Continued monitoring and reporting are essential for public safety in the region.
Original Source: www.newwestrecord.ca
