Earthquakes
We live in an active earthquake region. In fact, B.C. averages approximately 1,200 earthquakes per year. Most are too small to be felt, but an earthquake capable of causing structural damage is expected to occur somewhere in the province about once every decade. There is a one in three probability that a major, damaging earthquake will occur in the next 50 years. We never know when "the big one" might happen, but we know one will occur in our area - it's just a matter of time.
You only have seconds. Do you know what to do when the ground starts shaking?
The Great BC ShakeOut earthquake drill takes place across North America on the third Thursday of every October. Millions of participants worldwide will simultaneously practice the recommended action during an earthquake, 'Drop, Cover and Hold On'. Register yourself, your community or your organization today.
Resources, Tips, Guides, Links
- Get prepared for earthquakes and tsunamis (PreparedBC)
- Learn more about
- Earthquake early warning alerts
- Drop, Cover and Hold On
- Prepare your home
- Make an emergency plan
- Build an emergency kit and grab-and-go bags
- Research insurance options
- Sign-up to join the Great ShakeOutBC drill
- Download posters and printable resources from ShakeOutBC
- Read tips on how to run an earthquake drill in your community or organization
- Access drill guides to support your participation in the ShakeOut and to promote awareness and preparedness
- Find current and official information during emergencies in B.C. (EmergencyInfoBC)
- Find current Tsunami warning information (courtesy of NOAA/National Weather Service U.S. Tsunami Warning System)
A magnitude 9.2 earthquake in Alaska triggered a massive tsunami with waves that grew to more than six metres in Port Alberni. No one died, but an estimated 250 buildings were damaged. Photograph by: File , PNG Archive