A new system of sensors capable of detecting potential earthquakes has been launched in Quebec and eastern Ontario by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). The expansion of the Earthquake Early Warning System was announced recently. When an earthquake with a magnitude of five or higher is identified, the system activates and sends out emergency alerts through phones and broadcasts, similar to alerts for tornadoes or Amber Alerts. These alerts could provide valuable seconds of warning before the shaking commences, allowing individuals to seek shelter and safeguard themselves.
NRCan is also collaborating on issuing specialized warnings to sectors such as holding trains, pausing surgeries, and closing bridges or tunnels when necessary. According to NRCan, eastern Ontario and southern Quebec, along with western B.C. where the system was introduced last year, are at moderate to high risk of earthquakes. The occurrence of a major earthquake in urban areas could result in significant damage worth billions of dollars.
Canada has recorded one earthquake above magnitude five this year, a 5.2 magnitude quake off the coast of the Northwest Territories last month. Only three earthquakes of similar strength have been recorded in this region this century, occurring in 2002, 2010, and 2013.
The sensors first detect the initial energy released by an earthquake, known as the primary or P wave, before transmitting an alert if it poses a threat of damage when the secondary or S waves arrive. For instance, in B.C., P waves from a quake about 600 kilometers away were detected approximately a minute before the arrival of S waves. However, individuals closer to the epicenter of an earthquake may not receive alerts in time.
The system aims to provide crucial warnings and protect lives during seismic events, enhancing preparedness and response measures for potential earthquakes.
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