A recent 3.8-magnitude earthquake, close to Summerland’s water infrastructure, did not result in damage to the community’s dams.
The earthquake occurred early in the morning of Saturday, July 19.
Because the quake was close to Summerland’s water system, response protocols outlined in the municipality’s Emergency Response Plan were triggered.
Water utility staff visited each of the 14 dams in the Trout Creek and Eneas Creek watersheds that day and confirmed no damage had occurred.
“Thanks to the quick action of our dedicated staff and the emergency procedures we have in place, residents can be assured we are well prepared to respond to emergencies in order to protect public safety and maintain uninterrupted service in all our utilities,” Summerland Mayor Doug Holmes said.
The water utility monitors seismic activity in collaboration with Natural Resources Canada and follows strict response guidelines for any earthquake greater than 3.0 magnitude that occurs within 50 kilometres of critical infrastructure.
This approach ensures that even minor seismic activity is taken seriously, the municipality says.
Summerland’s 14 dams store around 16.644 billion litres of water, or the equivalent of nearly 6,700 Olympic-size swimming pools.
