Vancouver Island Earthquake Swarm Raises Concerns
Magnitude 6.4 Earthquake Recorded
On Thursday morning, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake shook Vancouver Island. The quake was part of a ongoing earthquake swarm that has been rattling the area for weeks. According to WEB Earthquake Canada, the quake was centered about 90 kilometers southwest of Tofino.
Swarm Activity Continues
The earthquake swarm began on May 29th, with a series of small earthquakes. Since then, there have been over 100 earthquakes in the area, with several registering magnitudes above 4.0.
Officials Monitoring Situation
Officials are closely monitoring the situation and are urging residents to be prepared for the possibility of aftershocks. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued a statement saying that there is no tsunami threat.
Historical Context
Vancouver Island is located in a seismically active region. The Juan de Fuca Plate is subducting beneath the North American Plate, which can cause earthquakes. In 1946, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Vancouver Island, causing widespread damage.
Preparation and Safety
In the event of an earthquake, it is important to remain calm and follow these safety tips:
- Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay away from windows, outside doors, and walls.
- If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Stay in the car and wait for the shaking to stop.
- If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
For more information on earthquake preparedness, please visit the Government of Canada's website.
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