Recent Earthquake Near Delta, B.C.
A preliminary 3.5‑magnitude earthquake struck near Delta, British Columbia, on Sunday night, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. The tremor occurred at 23:50 UTC, with its epicenter approximately 9 km north‑northeast of Delta and a depth of 16 km. While quakes of this size are often felt, they rarely cause significant damage. This event highlights the need for ongoing earthquake awareness and preparedness across the Pacific Northwest.
Earthquake Details
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Magnitude | 3.5 (preliminary) |
| Location | 9 km north‑northeast of Delta, B.C. |
| Depth | 16 km |
| Time (UTC) | 23:50 |
“The U.S. Geological Survey reports that this earthquake was felt in the surrounding communities.”
What to Do During an Earthquake
Experts recommend the following actions if you experience an earthquake:
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop; set the parking brake.
- If you are in bed, turn face‑down and cover your head with a pillow.
- If you are outdoors, stay away from buildings and do not enter them.
- If you are inside, stay put and avoid doorways; seek shelter under sturdy furniture.
The safest approach is to drop, cover, and hold on. Crawl to an interior wall away from windows if no sturdy table is available, and protect your head and neck with your arms. After the shaking stops, be aware of hazards such as damaged buildings, leaking gas or water lines, and downed power lines, and expect aftershocks.
Understanding Earthquake Magnitudes
Magnitude measures the energy released at the source of an earthquake, replacing the older Richter scale. The U.S. Geological Survey notes that quakes between 2.5 and 5.4 magnitude are often felt but rarely cause major damage. Earthquakes below 2.5 are seldom noticed by most people. Globally, about 500,000 detectable earthquakes occur each year; roughly 100,000 are felt, and around 100 cause damage.
Reporting and Resources
Those who felt the tremor are encouraged to submit a report via the USGS “Did You Feel It?” form. This data helps scientists refine seismic models and improve public safety measures. For additional information on earthquake preparedness, visit the Ready.gov earthquake section or consult local emergency management agencies.
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