The Tsunami Threat

Several catastrophic tsunamis have made the news in the last decade, causing many Sidney residents to question their exposure to this threat.

The most dangerous tsunami threat in Sidney will follow a major earthquake in the “Cascadia Subduction Zone,” located about 100 km (60 miles) off the west coast of Vancouver Island. Such an earthquake (commonly called “The Big One”) will cause severe ground shaking for 60 seconds or more.

Because of Vancouver Island, tsunamis created elsewhere in the Pacific Ocean are not likely to affect beach properties in Sidney beyond the high water that normally comes with severe winter storms. Likewise, minor or moderate earthquakes in the Strait of Georgia will not likely generate a destructive tsunami.

Here is a link to the Saanich Peninsula Tsunami Hazard Planning Map:  http://www.sidney.ca/Assets/Fire+Department/Saanich+Peninsula+Tsunami+Planning+Map.pdf

However, even small tsunami waves could damage some foreshore structures, such as marinas, and would be dangerous for anyone on the shoreline.

For this reason, if you feel a large earthquake or hear a tsunami warning, you should keep away from the shoreline until you have been informed that the threat has passed.

For further information on tsunami hazard including a map of the BC Tsunami Notification Zones go to:  www.pep.bc.ca/hazard_preparedness/Tsunami_Preparedness_Information.html

Recent Events in Japan

The tragic earthquake and tsunami in Japan have devastated the North Eastern part of that country. Secondary impacts have resulted in repercussions throughout Japan, including ongoing power blackouts hundreds of kilometres away.

It is sobering to realize that an earthquake of such scale could happen here.

If you would like more information about the Japanese disaster, go to:  http://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/prg/em/jeic-eng.aspx

Sidney residents may be concerned about the consequences from the escape of radiation at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission informs us that the level of radioactive material that is reaching Canada is very minute and poses no health risk.

For information on the threat of radiation from the nuclear reactor in Fukushima, go to:  www.pep.bc.ca

If you would like to help in the recovery effort in Japan through donations, please contact any number of reputable organizations that are gathering funds, such as the Canadian Red Cross at:  www.redcross.ca

The Earthquake in New Zealand

The February 2011 earthquake near Christchurch, New Zealand, may foreshadow a potential ‘worst case scenario’ for the residents of Sidney. There are many similarities between the impacted Canterbury Region in New Zealand and the Greater Victoria Area, including geology, building standards, living conditions, and level of public preparedness. Canadians can learn from the tragic events in Canterbury.

What they are currently experiencing could be similar to what we may have to cope with in the future. To follow the recovery process in Christchurch and surrounding area, you can visit their local emergency management organization’s website at:  www.canterburyearthquake.org.nz.