‘Existential threat’: How a big earthquake would devastate Vancouver

A new computer modelling report by the City of Vancouver warns that a magnitude 7.2 earthquake in the Georgia Strait could heavily damage 6,100 older buildings in the city, resulting in over 1,350 deaths and severe injuries, as well as $17 billion in financial losses. The report highlights the highest risk in neighbourhoods such as the West End, Downtown Eastside, and Kitsilano, prompting city councillors to consider a plan to reduce seismic risk by consulting with building owners, tenants, and Indigenous agencies. This effort follows years of neglect in addressing the seismic hazard of older private buildings in Vancouver.

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