Map shows areas likely to be hit worst in quake
A map that has been released by the City of Vancouver highlights areas that would see the most severe damage during a significant earthquake.
The map has been produced as part of the city’s continuing investments to assess earthquake risk and upgrade infrastructure.
It shows that a magnitude-7.3 quake would cause the most damage to Vancouver’s older, multi-family residential and commercial areas.
Neighbourhoods in Chinatown, the West End, Kitsilano and South Granville would be hit the hardest, with pockets of damage also highlighted in the Point Grey, Strathcona, Mount Pleasant and Marpole areas.
But the map also shows much of the southern half of Vancouver could see limited damage, although a statement from the city says disruption from such a powerful temblor would be felt city-wide.
City officials are releasing the map in preparation for the 2019 Great B.C. Earthquake ShakeOut drill, due to be held across the
province at 10:17 a.m. today.
“During an earthquake the best thing you can do is drop, cover and hold on,” says the city’s statement.
The drill is designed to encourage all British Columbians to practise their response to a quake and assess emergency preparedness.
Vancouver fire Chief Darrell Reid says that beyond participating in the drill, everyone should be prepared.
“Know the risks, make a plan and have the emergency supplies you need to get by so first responders can prioritize life-saving calls,” says Reid.