A magnitude 3.5 earthquake struck shortly after 2 a.m. Friday, affecting Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland. The quake was centered 18 kilometers from Delta at a depth of 65 kilometers and was lightly felt without causing any damage. This followed a series of earthquakes in the region over the past month, including a 3.8 magnitude quake in Haro Strait and a 4.2-magnitude tremor near Vancouver Island.
In the early hours of Friday morning, a minor earthquake recorded a magnitude of 3.5, affecting Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland for the second time in a week. According to Earthquakes Canada, the seismic event occurred at approximately 2 a.m. and was centered around 18 kilometers west of Delta, between the cities of Ladysmith and Delta, at a depth of 65 kilometers. Although the tremor was lightly felt by residents, reports indicate that there were no damages or significant concerns raised. This latest quake follows a 3.8-magnitude earthquake that struck the nearby Haro Strait around 4 a.m. on September 26, which was felt by numerous individuals in northeastern Vancouver Island and as far south as Washington state. Furthermore, a 4.2-magnitude earthquake recorded off the west coast of Vancouver Island the previous Wednesday was part of a series of seismic activities occurring in southwestern British Columbia during the past month.
The occurrence of earthquakes in British Columbia is not uncommon due to its geographical position along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for its seismic activity. Earthquakes in this region can vary significantly in terms of magnitude and depth, impacting the level of shaking felt by the population. The recent series of tremors, including those of September 26 and the quake on Wednesday preceding the Friday event, highlight ongoing geological movements and have prompted monitoring by various geological institutions, including Earthquakes Canada and the U.S. Geological Survey, to assess their impacts.
The recent earthquake activity in southwestern British Columbia, particularly around Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland, emphasizes the region’s seismological dynamics. The recorded quakes, while felt lightly by residents, have not resulted in damage, affirming ongoing preparedness and monitoring efforts by geological authorities. As geological patterns continue to be observed, residents are advised to remain informed and prepared for potential future seismic events.
Original Source: www.newwestrecord.ca
