A strong earthquake rattled southeastern British Columbia on February 21, 2025, at 1:26 p.m. PT. Measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale, the quake struck 24 kilometers northeast of Sechelt, situated on the Sunshine Coast. Residents across the southern region, including major cities like Victoria and Vancouver, reported experiencing tremors from this significant seismic event.
According to Earthquakes Canada, the earthquake occurred at a depth of roughly one kilometer, and officials quickly stated there were no immediate reports of damage as people from various locations, including Nanaimo, Port Alberni, and Port Moody, began to share their feelings of the shaking on social media.
Caitlin Allenby, who lives near the epicenter, relayed her frightening experience, stating, "It was really scary. Luckily, we were well prepared, and we were all together." Many others echoed her sentiments, claiming the shaking felt intense and unsettling. Brynn Campbell, who was working at a clothing store, described the rumbling as "like a big truck going by, and the glass was shaking, that's wild."
Emergency Management B.C. and various local authorities reported no significant instances of damage. Routine operations across the province continued without disruption, and Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services confirmed they had no reports of calls, injuries, or damage directly related to the earthquake. Officials from B.C. Ferries briefly evacuated and inspected terminals as a precaution, but services resumed after inspections proved the infrastructure intact.
Seismologist Brett Gilley, associated with the University of British Columbia, emphasized the necessity of being prepared for such events, noting, "We live in a highly active earthquake area." He suggested the quake was likely crustal, linked to shallow tectonic movements within the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which underlies much of British Columbia.
No tsunami warnings were issued following the tremor. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reassured the public of the safety protocols activated as part of their emergency responses. Alerts were sent to many B.C. residents' cellphones as well, instructing them on the proper measures to take during earthquakes: to "Drop, Cover and Hold on. Protect yourself," as conveyed by alerts received by Trent Richardson and his son McCarthy.
Taimi Mulder, another expert from Natural Resources Canada, stated, "This is definitely a really good wake-up call. We all need to be prepared... mentally prepare for the possibility of much larger earthquakes." She pointed out the historical precedent, mentioning the last significant earthquake, recorded at 7.3 magnitude, which struck the Courtenay area back in 1946. With this recent quake, she reminded the community of the probability of aftershocks, and she encouraged everyone to understand what to do during seismic events.
Unsurprisingly, community sentiment revealed varying degrees of concern. Many residents recounted their reactions and expressed fears about the intensity and potential severity of future quakes. Social media platforms became lit with discussions on preparedness, with messages of affirmation echoing the importance of community awareness and readiness.
Overall, Earthquakes Canada categorized this earthquake as likely feeling intense but minimal threat to structures and human safety. The agency stressed the new awareness this quake prompted among residents, reinforcing the age-old advice to have emergency plans and supplies ready.
Authorities continue to monitor aftershocks, and they remain prepared for any eventualities as the public fosters readiness for possible seismic activity. The sentiment across the province reflects the need for vigilance and safety measures as British Columbia stands firmly on the seismic front lines.
"Earthquake detected! Drop, Cover and Hold on. Protect yourself!" This advice resonates more than ever for the tectonically aware communities along the South Coast.