A 4.8 magnitude tremor hit just north of Sechelt before 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21. (USGS)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

jolt

Moderate earthquake rattles Nanaimo & Oceanside

Feb 21, 2025 | 1:33 PM

NANAIMO — A magnitude 4.8 earthquake has been recorded just north of Sechelt.

A strong, brief jolt was felt through much of the Nanaimo and Oceanside region at 1:26 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 21, when the tremor struck roughly 27 kilometres north of Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast. It occurred at a depth of around one kilometre, according to Earthquakes Canada.

Reports to NanaimoNewsNOW described the quake as “a solid jolt” in Nanaimo, while others in Ucluelet said it was felt strongly there too.

No tsunami warnings or advisories have been issued, and none are expected, by the US Geological Service.

supportive housing

Expansion proposed for south Nanaimo temporary housing project

9h ago

National Event

VIU to host 2026 CCAA men's basketball championship

12h ago

travel option

BC Ferries adding daily Tsawwassen-Departure Bay sailing, starting mid-June

16h ago

It was originally measured as a 4.7, before being upgraded to a 5.1 magnitude, then eventually adjusted to a 4.8.

There have been no reports of damage, however NanaimoNewsNOW has reached out to local agencies to confirm.

The City of Nanaimo said in a post to social media, “in an abundance of caution, City staff are assessing sites across our region. We are checking on critical infrastructure, personnel and neighbours to ensure all are safe.”

We’re on Bluesky! Stay up to date on news across central Vancouver Island through Bluesky, by following @NanaimoNewsNOW.bsky.social.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook