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No, That Wasn’t SkyTrain Construction You Felt Earlier Today.
If your building swayed or your furniture rattled, you weren’t imagining things—and no, it wasn’t just your upstairs neighbor moving furniture. A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck B.C.'s Sunshine Coast on February 21, shaking Metro Vancouver and beyond.
According to Earthquakes Canada and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake hit just before 1:30 p.m. PT, with its epicenter located about 35 kilometers from Sechelt at a shallow depth of approximately one kilometer. While initial reports estimated the quake at 4.7, it has since been revised up.
Tremors were widely felt across the Lower Mainland, from Vancouver to the Fraser Valley, as well as in Victoria and Whistler. Many reported swaying, rocking, and even hearing low rumbling sounds. Despite the significant shaking, there are no reports of injuries or structural damage.
This marks the second noticeable quake in southwest B.C. this month. On February 13, a magnitude 3.7 earthquake was recorded near Victoria. And last September, a 3.8-magnitude tremor was felt across parts of Metro Vancouver.
Should You Worry About Aftershocks?
Aftershocks are common following an earthquake and can continue for days or even weeks. However, more rumbling doesn’t necessarily mean a bigger quake is coming. Still, experts remind residents that Vancouver is in a seismically active zone, and preparedness is key.
The B.C. government recommends having an emergency kit with essentials like nonperishable food, water, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and copies of important documents. In the event of an earthquake, follow the Drop, Cover, and Hold method: get on your hands and knees, take cover under sturdy furniture, and protect your head and neck until the shaking stops.
Social Media Reactions
Many people took to social media to share their experiences—from mild surprise to concerns about the city's earthquake readiness. Here’s what some had to say:
Just heard from someone near Pender Harbour that the quake felt "huge" there. It was centred near Sechelt.
— Steve Burgess (@steveburgess53.bsky.social) February 21, 2025 at 1:35 PM
MY LEGS ARE STILL SHAKIN A LIL 😮💨 #bcearthquake
— Jem ✨ (@fusrodahlin.bsky.social) February 21, 2025 at 1:43 PM
Friendly reminder: a 4.8 magnitude earthquake has 1,000 times less energy than a 7.8 magnitude earthquake
— Tyler Olsen (@tyolsen.bsky.social) February 21, 2025 at 1:54 PM
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Chris Brackley
