Minor quake felt Wednesday in the valley
Wednesday afternoon's minor tremor felt in the valley is a reminder to residents to make preparations, says the Cowichan Valley Regional District's acting general manager of the public safety department.
"One of the things we're encouraging people to do, this is a good time to get ready and make sure you've got things lined up,'' said Sybille Sanderson.
The Pacific Geosciences Centre registered an earthquake of 3.0 magnitude hitting the south island region at 3:20 p.m., with the epicentre located about 20 kilometres west of Victoria.
The quake was felt throughout the south island on both coasts from Sooke to Sidney and as far north as Cowichan Lake, including at the News Leader Pictorial offices where employees noticed a distinct rumble for a split second.
No damage was reported in the valley or any consequences as a result of the quake.
"We were fortunate it didn't really affect anything up here,'' said Sanderson.
Minor quakes are recorded in the region all the time, but it's accelerated in recent days.
"There's been a lot of seismic activity, more than we're used to,'' said Sanderson.
Sixteen one day and 11 on another are above the norm.
"We are paying attention, hoping we get missed,'' said Sanderson.
"When we get these kinds of warnings, whether it means we've got something coming or not, it's an excellent opportunity (to make preparations).''
Sanderson said food and water are essential and, with the power likely to go out during a significant quake, people are also advised to have money on hand because ATM machines wouldn't be working.
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