" A magnitude 6.3 earthquake occurred 10km south-east of Christchurch at 12:51, February 22, 2011. Depth (focal depth): 5km.
There have been 21 aftershocks greater than M4, with 4 greater then M5.
Considerable damage has been reported in the Christchurch CBD and in Lyttelton. A more thorough assessment of the damage will completed over the next 24 hours. Rescue work is likely to take days to complete.
Aftershocks are likely to continue and this could lead to further building damage or collapse.
See also: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/
Damage assessment:
The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) is assessing information with the assistance of scientific advisors and Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Groups.
The National Crisis Management Centre has been activated.
- To minimise loading on the telecommunications network, people should use txt messaging to check if friends and family are safe
- There are reports of widespread building collapse (especially in the central city).
- There are 65 confirmed fatalities and numerous reports of injuries. This figure is likely to rise.
- The earthquake was felt widely across the South Island.
- Christchurch City declared a state of emergency at 1445 hrs.
- National agencies have been activated and are being coordinated via the National Crisis Management Centre.
- The National Crisis Management Centre is anticipating a need for temporary accommodation due to the extensive building damage.
Government help lineCall the Ministry of Social Development's Government help line 0800 779 997 for information about all government services and support."
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