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World News
20 February 2025

5.2 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Northern Alberta

Residents report tremors across multiple communities with no damage reported.

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake rattled parts of northern Alberta early Thursday morning, creating tremors felt by residents from as far as Grande Prairie to Prince George, British Columbia. Recorded at 8:41 AM MT (7:41 AM PT), the quake was positioned roughly 63 kilometers northeast of Grande Cache.

According to Earthquakes Canada, the earthquake struck at a relatively shallow depth of five kilometers but generated sufficient intensity to be reported by several local residents. While no damage has been confirmed, the event has sparked conversations on social media, with some Edmonton residents recounting their experiences.

One user on Reddit shared, “I felt it a bit in Edmonton. Very mild,” providing insight on how the earthquake was perceived within the province’s capital. Another added, “Just felt a tremor and saw some things sway here in south Edmonton,” highlighting the physical effects of the quake even at significant distances from the epicenter.

This recent earthquake adds to Alberta's history of seismic activity. The region has previously experienced notable quakes, including one measuring 5.8 magnitude back in November 2022 and another at 5.0 magnitude documented the following March. Although quakes of such magnitude can induce concern, Earthquakes Canada indicated on their website, "quakes between 3.5 and 5.4 are often felt, but rarely cause damage.”

The agency believes this latest seismic event was similarly felt across the communities of Edson, Grande Prairie, Whitecourt, and other nearby areas. They have not received any reports of damage associated with the tremor.

Interestingly, authorities speculate the earthquake might be associated with local oil and gas activities, which have been under scrutiny for potentially affecting geological stability. The tremors remind residents of Alberta's geological dynamics and the past seismic events which have shaped community responses to natural phenomena.

The largest recorded earthquake in Alberta occurred on November 30, 2022, measuring 5.6, which astonished residents and scientists alike, with tremors felt as far away as Calgary, approximately 700 kilometers from the epicenter.

Residents and authorities alike continue to remain vigilant as Earthquakes Canada monitors the aftershocks and encourages the public to report any unusual seismic activity. Education on earthquake preparedness is key, especially as the region sees recurring seismic events linked to human activities.

Overall, Thursday’s earthquake, though not damaging, serves as a reminder of the volatile geological activity beneath Alberta’s surface and the communities' interaction with natural forces intertwined with local resource extraction industries.