Updated Story: July 30, at 7 a.m.
A tsunami advisory covering much of B.C.’s coast has been cancelled Wednesday morning.
EmergencyInfoBC rescinded the tsunami advisory just after 6 a.m.
Original Story: July 29, at 7 p.m.
On Tuesday, July 29, at 6:32 p.m. PDT, Environment Canada issued a tsunami advisory for the west coast of British Columbia.
The tsunami advisory was issued after a historic 8.7 magnitude earthquake hit 136 kilometers southeast of Petropavlovsk, Kamchatka, Russia.
Affected areas include Haida Gwaii, the north and central coast, and the northeast and outer west coast of Vancouver Island.
An earthquake of this magnitude is rare as there have only been three other instances of earthquakes of an 8.7 magnitude or greater since 2000.
Authorities are strongly encouraging people in the affected areas to avoid the shore to view the waves.
Authorities are also recommending that residents have a grab-and-go bag for everyone in their household, even pets, in the event of an evacuation notice.
The first waves are expected to hit Haida Gwaii at 10:05 p.m. with strong currents likely.
The best way to stay safe during a tsunami is to stay informed and listen to local authorities.
The situation is being monitored. For more information, visit emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca.
