A system of sensors capable of detecting potential significant earthquakes is now operational in Quebec and eastern Ontario, as announced by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). The Earthquake Early Warning System springs into action if an earthquake of magnitude five or higher is identified, sending out emergency alerts via phone and broadcast, akin to tornado or Amber Alerts. These alerts could offer valuable seconds of advance notice before the tremors commence, allowing individuals to seek shelter and safeguard themselves.
NRCan is also developing plans to issue warnings to specific sectors, enabling measures such as halting trains, pausing surgeries, and closing bridges or tunnels when necessary. In addition to western B.C., where the warning system was introduced last year, NRCan highlights that eastern Ontario and southern Quebec face moderate to high earthquake risks. The occurrence of a major earthquake in urban areas could result in significant damages amounting to tens of billions of dollars, according to NRCan.
The only earthquake above magnitude five recorded in Canada this year was a 5.2 magnitude quake off the coast of the Northwest Territories last month, according to Earthquakes Canada. In this century, the region has experienced three earthquakes of similar strength in 2002, 2010, and 2013.
Regarding the technical aspects, the sensors detect the initial deep energy emitted by an earthquake, known as the primary or P wave. If the earthquake poses a threat, an alert is issued before the secondary or S waves, which can cause damage, strike. For instance, in B.C., the P waves of an earthquake occurring approximately 600 kilometers away were detected about a minute before the arrival of the S waves. However, individuals closer to the epicenter of an earthquake may not receive alerts in time.
It is crucial for individuals in earthquake-prone areas to stay informed about early warning systems and preparedness measures to enhance their safety during such events.
