Canada: Earthquakes strike off Vancouver coast Oct. 21; no tsunami risk

Event

A series of three strong earthquakes measuring between 6.5 and 6.8 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Vancouver Island (British Columbia) late on Sunday, October 21. They struck between 22:39 and 23:22 (local time), approximately 200 km (125 mi) west of Port Alice. However, no tsunami warning has been issued and no damages or casualties are expected. Further earthquakes and aftershocks are possible in the coming hours and days.

Advice

In the event of a strong earthquake, take shelter under a table or crouched in a corner (away from exterior walls) if indoors and protect your head with your arms. If outdoors, move away from buildings and other tall structures; if driving, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, away from tall structures. If caught under debris following an earthquake, keep all movements to a minimum and cover your mouth to avoid inhaling dust.

After a major earthquake, check buildings for damage, including downed power lines or damaged gas lines, and evacuate until the building is declared safe. Only use your telephone in case of urgency so as to leave communication lines open for emergency services.