A 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck 42 kilometers east of Sidney, British Columbia, early Monday morning. The tremor occurred at 5:02 a.m. PT and was lightly felt in nearby areas, including Victoria and Vancouver, according to Earthquakes Canada.
The initial report listed the earthquake at magnitude 4.5, but the measurement was later revised to 4.1. The epicenter was near Orcas Island, Washington, located between Vancouver and Seattle, just south of B.C.’s Southern Gulf Islands.
Officials confirmed that no damage has been reported. No public alert was issued, as the earthquake’s magnitude and intensity were below the levels that could cause harm. Authorities also confirmed there is no risk of a tsunami from this event.
Residents in Victoria and Vancouver reported feeling a mild shaking for a few seconds. Some described it as a gentle jolt, while others said it was barely noticeable. The earthquake lasted only a brief moment, causing no disruption to daily activities.
Experts say the region is seismically active due to its position along the Pacific Northwest’s fault systems. Earthquakes of this size are relatively common and typically do not result in significant damage.
“The earthquake was small and shallow, which is why people nearby felt it lightly,” a geophysicist explained. “The area regularly experiences minor quakes, and structures here are generally built to handle them.”
Although the tremor was felt in urban areas, emergency services reported no calls for assistance. Residents are reminded to follow standard earthquake safety measures, such as staying indoors away from windows and securing heavy objects, even during minor quakes.
Scientists continue to monitor the area for aftershocks, although they say the likelihood of a stronger quake following this event is low. Earthquakes Canada maintains real-time tracking and encourages people to report any unusual activity.
This incident highlights the importance of preparedness in regions prone to seismic activity. While this earthquake was minor, experts say understanding local earthquake risks and safety protocols can help minimize potential harm in the future.
Authorities urge residents to stay informed and ensure that emergency kits are ready, even for small tremors. These steps can be vital in more significant seismic events that may occur in the Pacific Northwest.
