4.7 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes B.C. Coast, No Major Damage Reported

SECHELT, British Columbia — A 4.7 magnitude earthquake struck B.C.’s Sunshine Coast just before 1:30 p.m. PT on Friday, prompting emergency alerts across the Lower Mainland. It was widely felt, but officials reported no major damage or injuries.

The earthquake’s epicenter was located near Sechelt, approximately 24 kilometers north-northeast of the community. Earthquakes Canada initially recorded a higher magnitude of 5.4 but later downgraded it to 4.7.

Residents reported significant shaking, with some comparing it to previous tremors they’ve experienced. Jackie Graham, a resident of Courtenay, recalled, “I heard a loud boom, I felt the house shake. My first thought was that a tree had fallen on the house.”

Despite the shaking felt from Vancouver Island to Metro Vancouver, nobody has reported injuries or considerable structural damage, with only minor issues such as cracked drywall noted.

The event triggered the Canadian Earthquake Early Warning system, which alerts people seconds before strong shaking occurs. Emergency Info B.C. confirmed there was no tsunami threat following the quake.

In Sechelt, Derek Bland, manager of the local IGA grocery store, described the scene: “Staff and customers hustled out of the building. It felt like it lasted 10 to 20 seconds.”

The tremor triggered quick reactions among adults and children alike; many took cover under desks, while others gathered their pets and personal belongings to evacuate.

Earthquakes Canada confirmed a minor 1.9 magnitude aftershock occurred at 2:40 p.m. PT. Seismologist and CBC meteorologist Johanna Wagstaffe noted that aftershocks following an earthquake of this nature are expected, but typically less intense.

Authorities used the incident as a call to reinforce the importance of earthquake preparedness. Sheri Molnar, an associate professor at Western University, emphasized, “You should always be ready for an earthquake. We’re not ready for a very strong earthquake, but it can happen.”

Emergency management officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential aftershocks. Although this earthquake was a minor event, it serves as a reminder of the seismic activity in the region.