Greater Victoria and Vancouver Rattled Early Thursday
An early morning earthquake rattled Greater Victoria and nearby areas, causing a brief moment of alarm among residents. The earthquake struck just after 4 a.m., centred near Sidney and D’Arcy Islands, east of the Saanich Peninsula and approximately 11 kilometres from Sidney. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the initial report marked the quake as a magnitude-4.1, later revised to 4.0. Earthquakes Canada, however, registered the tremor at a magnitude-3.8.
Depth of the Earthquake Prevents Major Damage
Despite the earthquake being felt widely across Victoria, Vancouver Island, and even parts of Vancouver, no significant damage has been reported. Earthquakes Canada confirmed the tremor was almost 55 kilometres deep, which played a critical role in mitigating its impact. John Cassidy, a seismologist with Environment Canada, emphasised that deep earthquakes like this one are common in the region and tend to cause less surface damage.
“Even those close to the epicentre were still 55 kilometres away due to the depth of the tremor,” Cassidy said.
Difference in Reporting Between USGS and Earthquakes Canada
Residents often notice slight discrepancies in magnitude readings between Earthquakes Canada and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Cassidy explained that this is due to preliminary data that is frequently updated. Canada’s reports are typically more precise for local earthquakes because they include more regional data.
Residents Report the Earthquake Across Vancouver Island and Beyond
Hundreds of residents across Greater Victoria, Duncan, Cowichan Lake, and even as far as Vancouver and Washington state, reported feeling the tremor. In Ross Bay, Karin Hedetniemi described how her dog woke her up just moments before the quake hit. “A minute later, an earthquake rattled all the dresser handles,” she shared on X.
Others like Victoria author Jean Paetkau felt the tremor in James Bay, reporting a “big shake” at 4 a.m., while Fairfield resident Joie Warnock experienced her apartment swaying.
Reminder to Stay Prepared in Earthquake Zones
Though this Victoria earthquake caused no damage, it serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to larger earthquakes. Cassidy noted that if Thursday’s quake had been in the magnitude range of 6.8 to 7, as seen in Washington State in past decades, the shaking would have been one thousand times more severe.
“The tremor is a reminder that we live in an earthquake zone,” Cassidy added. “We experience small earthquakes every day, with larger ones happening every decade.”
No Alerts from Canada’s Early Warning System
Thursday’s earthquake did not trigger Canada’s Earthquake Early Warning System, which only activates for tremors of magnitude-5.0 or higher. The system detects quakes immediately after they occur and can provide a crucial few seconds of warning before strong shaking begins. Alerts are sent via the National Public Alerting System and appear on TV, radio, and compatible cellphones.
Prepare for the Great BC ShakeOut
This minor quake comes just three weeks ahead of the Great BC ShakeOut, scheduled for October 17 at 10:17 a.m. The annual drill encourages everyone in Vancouver, Victoria, and across BC to “drop, cover, and hold on,” practicing proper safety measures in case of a larger earthquake.
The BC Earthquake Preparedness Guide suggests staying in bed during a quake and using a pillow or blanket to protect your head if you are in bed. Most injuries occur when people attempt to run for cover.
For more detailed information on earthquake preparedness, the Capital Regional District and many local governments provide resources to help residents stay safe in the event of a larger earthquake.
A Safe But Important Wake-Up Call for Vancouver Island
While Thursday’s Victoria earthquake was minor, the widespread reports of shaking remind everyone on Vancouver Island and BC to remain vigilant and prepared. Fortunately, no damage was reported, but this minor tremor is a clear indicator that residents live in a region prone to seismic activity. As the Great BC ShakeOut approaches, it’s an excellent time to review safety plans and ensure homes are secure.
