The Vancouver Island earthquake of 1946 was a significant seismic event that occurred in the northern region of the Pacific coast of North America. Measuring 7.3 on the moment magnitude scale, the quake struck off the western shore of Vancouver Island, affecting coastal communities and beyond. The city of Port Alberni was hit hard, with many of its buildings suffering extensive damage. Though there were no reported deaths, the quake caused considerable alarm among residents and prompted emergency responses across the island. Following the quake, seismologists began paying increased attention to the seismic risks posed by the Cascadia subduction zone, which is known for its potential to produce large-scale seismic events.

In the aftermath, the earthquake's tremors were felt as far away as Seattle and down into parts of California, demonstrating the far-reaching effects of seismic activity on the Pacific coast. The event instigated conversations about building codes and preparedness for natural disasters among local governments and communities. Many residents took it as a wake-up call to reassess their emergency plans and structural reinforcements in homes and businesses.

The earthquake coincided with a period of post-World War II recovery, meaning that many of the people affected were already facing the challenges of rebuilding their lives. As a result, the earthquake's impact reverberated not only through physical destruction but also through emotional stress and community resilience, shaping the narrative of local history.