April 9 to 15 is Tsunami Preparedness Week in BC, and with the coast being an active area for earthquakes, it’s also good to know what to do in a worst-case scenario for Vancouver.
According to the BC government’s tsunami preparedness website, tsunamis are caused by large earthquakes undersea. These undersea earthquakes can potentially cause large waves.
It could take hours for waves to hit the shore if the earthquake took place at a far distance, but more significant earthquakes can cause waves that arrive in minutes.
- You might also like:
- Under the sea: Vancouver predicted to be one of the first cities underwater
- Abbotsford's flood prevention upgrades for Sumas Prairie could cost up to $2.8 billion
- Canada's first early earthquake warning sensor installed at Horseshoe Bay
If you’re near the coast during a potentially catastrophic quake, it is recommended that you move to higher ground immediately, at least 20 metres above sea level. This is particularly important if you live somewhere that doesn’t have evacuation maps, plans or cell service.
If you do live somewhere with evacuation plans, it is recommended that you move to higher ground and follow the designated evacuation route, while following all instructions provided by local officials.
Staying on higher ground is recommended until the local authority delivers an all-clear, as tsunami waves can last for hours.
To practice reaching their tsunami-safe location, many communities are hosting High Ground Hikes, to raise awareness about B.C.’s tsunami risk.
“Knowing where high ground is and how to get there is an important part of tsunami preparedness. Some people may not need to travel far to reach safety,” a press release from the province reads.
It might seem like common sense, but the preparedness guide states to never go to the beach to watch the waves.
“A tsunami can move faster than you can run.”
The west coast divides into five different tsunami notification zones. It’s important to know what zone you’re in to be prepared in the event a warning or advisory is issued.
You can see the different tsunami notification zones here.
In the event of a tsunami, warnings will be broadcast through TV, radio and mobile devices that are compatible with Alert Ready.
BC Gov
While Vancouver has been lucky enough to steer clear of the “big one” so far, it’s only a matter of time before this information will come in handy.
“We know it’s scary to think about emergencies like tsunamis, but by getting prepared and learning about the tsunami risk in your community now, you’ll be safer in the event of a tsunami,” Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, says.
“Tsunami Preparedness Week is the perfect time to put together an emergency kit for your family and practise evacuating to a tsunami-safe location in your community.”
Follow Channels and Categories