Cascading series of seismic earthquakes rip through Christchurch, New Zealand

December 23, 2011 – NEW ZEALAND – A series of earthquakes have terrified many already-frazzled Christchurch residents this afternoon, starting with a 5.8 magnitude tremor at 1.58 pm. It was followed by a 6.0 magnitude aftershock at 3.18pm, centered 10km east of Christchurch in South New Brighton. There was also a 5.3 magnitude quake at 2.06pm and a 5.0 at 4.50 pm. Initial reports said one person had received minor injuries, although St John had responded to 19 earthquake-related emergency calls in and around Christchurch. They ranged from complaints of chest pain and seizures, to a panic attack. Five people had collapsed, and one suffered a knock to the head. St John said all injuries were minor. Police say there is no tsunami threat, and they have no reports of serious or widespread damage or injury. Civil Defense staff have met on the ground in Christchurch to get a good picture of the extent of impact, but national civil defense controller David Coetzee said it was too early to comment on the way forward.  Major holes in the road were reported to have opened up on Broadhaven Avenue, and liquefaction was reported in Avonside. Drivers were urged to slow down and be patient as congestion built up in some areas. Police said Christchurch residents should stay off roads if at all possible, and text rather than phone. Christchurch Hospital, the Princess Margaret Hospital and Hillmorton are all fully operational. Burwood is operating on emergency power. There are no reports of damage and no injuries to staff or patients who were at the board’s facilities at the time of the quake. The DHB said people can access 24-hour non-emergency care through their general practice, and are asked to help keep the Emergency Department clear for genuine emergencies. The 111 service is operating normally for emergencies. The Christchurch mayor said his heart breaks for Cantabrians shocked by a series of earthquakes this afternoon. The first, a magnitude 5.8 tremor, struck at 1.50pm. Its focal point was at a depth of eight kilometers, 20km off the coast of Lyttelton. Christchurch Airport remains evacuated, with literally hundreds of people standing outside with their luggage. Prime Minister John Key said Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Minister, Gerry Brownlee, will be heading to Christchurch this afternoon to access the situation. “My heart goes out to the people of Christchurch and Canterbury at this time,” Mr. Key said. “However, residents can be confident that the authorities are onto the situation and government resources stand ready to assist wherever they are needed. “The Government’s resolve to work with the people of Christchurch and Canterbury to rebuild remains unchanged following today’s two aftershocks.” –NZ Herald

contribution Tim