B.C.’s 4.7-magnitude earthquake a reminder to be prepared, say experts and officials [Video]

Experts and officials are saying Friday’s 4.7 magnitude earthquake, felt across southwest B.C., is a wake-up call that British Columbians need to be prepared for an emergency situation. 

The quake occurred at 1:26 p.m. off B.C.’s Sunshine Coast Friday afternoon at a depth of about 1 kilometre. Officials say no structural damage or injuries were reported. 

Friday’s quake is a reminder that many people aren’t prepared for a large earthquake, said Sheri Molnar, a geologist who leads the Metro Vancouver Seismic Microzonation Project. 

“We’re not ready for a very strong earthquake and we’re not ready for an earthquake that would cause damage,” Molnar told CBC’s On The Coast on Friday. 

Through the seismic zoning project Molnar and a team of researchers have been mapping and identifying areas in the Lower Mainland that are more prone to earthquake hazards. Their work, which tracks shaking, liquefaction and landslide hazards is available for free online.

WATCH | CBC’s seismologist explains crustal earthquakes: CBC …