Ocean Networks Canada to Coordinate Earthquake Early Warning System British Columbia

Earthquake early warning has received a big boost in British Columbia. Ocean Networks Canada (ONC), an initiative of the University of Victoria, will develop a regional earthquake early warning system for southern British Columbia—home to over 50% of the province’s residents—with funding from the province.

The Honorable Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness, announced that $5 million will go to Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) and their partners to ensure that communities have the best chance to protect themselves and find safety when a major earthquake occurs.

Gathering to celebrate $5 million investment in earthquake early warning (left to right): Dave Cockle, Oak Bay fire chief and President, BC Earthquake Alliance; The Honourable Naomi Yamamoto; Kate Moran, ONC President & CEO; and Don McRae, MLA for Comox Valley.

This funding enables ONC to expand its seismic sensor network on land, and importantly, on the seafloor off the coast, where large earthquakes occur. ONC will also coordinate a variety of regional data to be hosted on Oceans 2.0, its world-leading data management system that collects and archives vast amounts of diverse data, in real-time, from ONC instruments and infrastructure.

With an expanded sensor network and proven delivery system, ONC is uniquely positioned to bring together the right players to deliver a comprehensive earthquake early warning system in British Columbia. ONC’s cabled observatories collect data from ultra-sensitive offshore and land-based seismic sensors, effectively monitoring seismic activity 24/7 from the Cascadia subduction zone where earthquake risk is high.

Collaborating with other agencies, including the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Natural Resources Canada and the University of British Columbia, ONC will be able to monitor earthquakes from other risk areas as well.

Leveraging the capabilities of Oceans 2.0, ONC is currently developing a software platform that will deliver an alert to decision-makers within seconds of a major rupture. These vital seconds of warning will allow time to take protective actions, for example: shutting down gas lines, stopping trains and surgeries, and taking cover.

Ocean Networks Canada operates world-class ocean observatories off the west coast of British Columbia and in the Arctic for the advancement of science and the benefit of Canada. ONC cabled observatories collect data that help scientists and leaders make informed decisions about coastal earthquakes and tsunamis, climate change, coastal management, conservation and marine safety.