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An early morning earthquake rattled some areas of the central Island, but caused no damage or tsunami alert. (USGS)
shaking

Minor early morning earthquake rattles Nanaimo and surrounding area

Oct 4, 2024 | 9:04 AM

NANAIMO — Some light sleepers and night owls across the central Island were left a little shaken Friday morning.

Earthquakes Canada reports a 3.5 magnitude tremor was recorded at 2:09 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 in the Salish Sea, approximately halfway between Nanaimo and Tsawwassen.

The earthquake was recorded at a depth of 65 kilometres and was reportedly lightly felt in the surrounding area.

A report from the government agency noted “there are no reports of damage, and none would be expected.”

Regardless, several reported feeling notable shaking and waves during the brief event.

“Five minutes ago my cat who was sleeping peacefully on my bed suddenly bolted upright and looked around in fright,” Rena Mae reported on a Nanaimo-based social media group.

“I’m in central Nanaimo, it sounded like our front door slammed, then house shuddered a few seconds,” Jackie Marriott added.

Others reported sleeping through it but then finding items knocked off shelves when they woke in the morning.

Most who felt the tremor said it lasted only two or three seconds.

B.C. will conduct its annual earthquake readiness drill, the Great B.C. Shakeout, on Oct. 17 at 10:17 a.m.

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