Christchurch Quake

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake occurred in Christchurch, New Zealand, at 0435 hours (NZ local time), 4 September 2010.

Several aftershocks of between magnitude 3.9 and 5.2 have occurred and more aftershocks are expected. The likelihood of aftershocks of up to around magnitude 6 will remain for the next week.

There has been widespread minor structural damage to buildings and smaller bridges. Across the Canterbury region the delivery of water, sewerage and power services has been impaired but is being restored.

One person is in the Intensive Care Unit of Christchurch Hospital with serious injuries; a small number have been treated for fractures and lacerations. All hospitals are functional, although Christchurch Hospital is operating on generator power.

For the latest information, please see:
http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf
or
www.stuff.co.nz

David Searle, ZL3DWS told Southgate News:
Just a quick note to say we’ve been hit by a very big earthquake, lots of big rolling aftershocks.
We are all well – home is fine except broken vases and water spilt, some broken glass.

Best regards, David ZL3DWS

George ZL3PN reports that the quake took out his granddaughter's house.
George writes:
Well we won't forget this big shake in Canterbury in a hurry. Even in Timaru the house rolled and shook like it seemed ages. But CHCH areas its now a big problem to sort out.
My grandaughter and family at Kaipoi had to evacuate their lovely modern home which sunk down with big lean on it. Moved in with family at Rangiora. What a start to spring.. No one killed it seems amazing. Our thoughts a with CHCH and areas.

George ZL3PN

See also:
BBC News - Strong earthquake rocks New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters
http://www.nzart.org.nz/