M5.1 Earthquake felt within the city of Vancouver
A M5.1 earthquake near Sechelt was felt in the city of Vancouver at approximately 1:26 pm PST today. The City is currently not aware of any injuries as a result of this event.
Today’s event calls for a level 1 response under the City’s Earthquake Response Plan. This includes immediate inspection of our bridges by the City’s structural engineering consultants which are now underway.
An alert was issued through BC Emergency Alert and the City’s alerting system, Alertable at the time of this event.
When an earthquake happens
When the ground starts to shake or you receive an alert, remember to DROP, COVER and HOLD ON to stay safe. Drop to the ground, take cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it until the shaking stops.
If you are unable to drop to the ground, lower your head to your knees while seated and cover your head and neck with your arms.
When the shaking stops, hold your position and count to 60 seconds. Be aware that aftershocks may occur.
Drop, cover and hold on any time you feel shaking.
Only call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies, and do not call to ask for information.
Be prepared: actions you can take
Download the Alertable app to receive notifications from the City of Vancouver about significant and urgent emergencies.
To learn more about how to better prepare your household and workplace for an emergency, visit the Emergency Preparedness page on vancouver.ca.
Follow City of Vancouver External website, opens in new tab and Emergency Info BC External website, opens in new tab online for updates on this incident.