Earthquakes and tsunamis in B.C: what do we need to know?

The experts have been warning us for years that, sooner or later, a big earthquake will occur off the B.C. coast. What is the science behind that prediction? How would it compare to the major earthquakes off Sumatra? Would it produce a tsunami? And what can B.C. communities and individuals do to prepare and protect themselves?
Find out on Wednesday, May 4 at “Earthquake and Tsunami Hazard on Canada’s West Coast,” a special presentation co-sponsored by UVic’s centre for earth and ocean research and CH News.

The evening will feature a showing of the CH News production “Magnitude 9,” a 20-minute news documentary on the science and history of earthquakes and tsunamis on the B.C. coast. Four informative talks will follow: Dr. Garry Rogers (Geological Survey of Canada); Dr. Fred Stephenson (Fisheries and Oceans Canada); Kevin Wallinger (Provincial Emergency Program); and Dr. Brian Bornhold, co-chief scientist of NEPTUNE Canada.

Bornhold will describe how the NEPTUNE undersea observatory project, led in Canada by UVic, will help us learn more about the occurrence of earthquakes and the processes that give rise to them, and give us an earlier warning and understanding of approaching tsunamis. Bornhold has also done research on landslide-generated tsunamis, which he says are another natural hazard faced by coastal British Columbians.

The presentation takes place from 7–9 p.m. in the David Lam Auditorium in the MacLaurin Building. The event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. For more information call 721-8848 or visit web.uvic.ca/ceor.