No Damage to Vancouver Bridges Confirmed After Recent Earthquake

The City of Vancouver confirmed no damage to local bridges following a 4.7-magnitude earthquake. Inspections conducted by engineering consultants showed structural integrity was maintained. Experts warn that while newer structures are generally resilient, previous patterns indicate risks from significant quakes in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

The City of Vancouver has confirmed that after a 4.7-magnitude earthquake struck southern British Columbia, local bridges sustained no damage according to structural engineering consultants. Inspections were conducted two days after the earthquake, which occurred twenty kilometers northwest of Sechelt, with reports of shaking felt across Metro Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast. Despite being felt by thousands, the city reported no injuries related to the quake.

Dr. Tony Yang, a civil engineering professor at UBC, explained that inspections typically begin with visual checks for structural damages like cracks in walls and foundations. He noted the potential for non-structural damage that could impact functionality, although it was unlikely in this instance. Yang emphasized that while structures built over the last half-century in Metro Vancouver would likely withstand significant seismic activity, damage could still occur.

“You have about a 98 percent chance that your structures will be able to withstand the load,” Yang stated, indicating the robustness of the newer constructions. However, he acknowledged that collapse prevention is the minimum standard, and more advanced technological options exist for owners seeking enhanced seismic performance to avoid or minimize damage in the event of a major earthquake.

Vancouver lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active region that includes numerous nearby areas like California, Mexico, and Japan. Yang highlighted that a considerable earthquake could indeed impact the Pacific Northwest based on patterns observed from significant earthquakes worldwide, such as the 2011 Tohoku quake in Japan.

Yang concluded with a note of positivity, stating, “One, it wasn’t too big, so we don’t have too much damage to the structures. But also, [it allowed] earthquake energy to be released.” Overall, the recent earthquake, while a concern, was manageable regarding its impact on local infrastructure.

In summary, the City of Vancouver has reported no bridge damage following a 4.7-magnitude earthquake. Structural inspections confirmed the integrity of local infrastructure, although experts warned about potential risks from larger earthquakes. Dr. Tony Yang’s insights highlight the importance of understanding both structural and non-structural damage, particularly in a seismically active region like the Pacific Northwest.

Original Source: vancouver.citynews.ca