A 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Sechelt on Friday afternoon, sending a jolt across British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. Despite fears of destruction, officials reported no major damage. The quake, which hit at around 1:30 p.m., was felt across the region, including Vancouver and Squamish.
Emergency managers described the earthquake as one of the largest to hit the Coast in decades. Local staff quickly began safety procedures. The first step was confirming that everyone was safe and all buildings were secure. Fire departments, first responders, and other emergency crews reported they were on standby but did not need to respond to any incidents.
Inspections included hospitals, highways, and water treatment plants. Flyovers of critical infrastructure, such as dams and reservoirs, confirmed there was no visible damage. Officials stressed that safety checks would continue over the coming days.
The earthquake caused delays of over an hour for ferry services between Horseshoe Bay and Langdale. Terminals were inspected to ensure structures were sound before service resumed. Passengers at the Horseshoe Bay terminal reported brief evacuations as safety checks were carried out. Some travelers described the shaking as light, comparing it to a large truck passing by. By late afternoon, ferries were back in service, though schedules remained behind. Operators thanked passengers for their patience while crews completed inspections.
School officials confirmed that students and staff followed earthquake procedures and returned safely to their classrooms. Buses continued to operate as usual. Local governments also checked their facilities and confirmed no structural damage. The District of Sechelt asked residents to stay alert for possible aftershocks. Authorities reminded the public to report any building damage and to check on elderly or isolated neighbors.
Officials used the event as a reminder for households to prepare emergency kits. A “grab-and-go” bag should include essentials such as identification, medications, cash, eyeglasses, food, water, flashlights, and chargers. These kits are crucial during emergencies such as wildfires, floods, or earthquakes when quick evacuation may be required. Residents were also encouraged to register with the Voyent Alert system. This tool allows emergency managers to send rapid alerts in case of localized threats, such as evacuations or safety instructions. The system was not activated during Friday’s quake because no urgent warnings were needed.
Authorities warned that aftershocks could follow in the hours and days after the initial tremor. If indoors during shaking, safety advice is to drop, cover, and hold on. Taking shelter under sturdy furniture, avoiding windows, and protecting the head and face are the best steps. Emergency services stressed that while no tsunami warning was issued, residents should stay alert to official updates. Earthquakes Canada reported that the quake struck 24 kilometers northeast of Sechelt at a shallow depth of just one kilometer.
Residents across the Sunshine Coast shared their experiences. Some said they first thought the noise was thunder or heavy traffic before realizing the ground was shaking. Others reported that pets reacted seconds before the quake, hinting at the tremor’s arrival. In Sechelt, one resident described the shaking as strong enough to rattle glasses in cupboards, while in Gibsons, another hid under a table as alerts lit up phones and computers. Despite nerves, no injuries were reported.
Community leaders reminded residents that preparation is key. Upcoming events such as the Emergency Preparedness Fair in May will offer resources, including pre-made kits. The recent quake, though mild in impact, served as a powerful reminder that the region is vulnerable to seismic events. Officials emphasized that the most important outcome was that no one was harmed. With infrastructure intact and safety checks ongoing, the Sunshine Coast is resuming normal life — but with renewed awareness of the need for readiness.
