7.1 Earthquake strikes Christchurch

A 7.1 Magnitude earthquake has hit Christchurch. Follow information updates through the MCDEM website.

Christchurch City Council Civil Defence has declared a state of local emergency.
Selwyn District Council has declared a state of local emergency.

For more information about the quake visit the Geonet site.
 People in the affected area should:

Expect aftershocks. Each time one is felt, drop, cover, and hold on.

Assess your home or workplace for damage. If the building appears unsafe get everyone out. When outside, watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines. Stay out of damaged areas.

Look for and extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so. Fire is a significant hazard following earthquakes.

Listen to the radio for updated emergency information and instructions.

Do not overload phone lines with non-emergency calls.

Help people who require special assistance - infants, elderly people, those without transportation, families who may need additional help, people with disabilities, and the people who care for them.

Detailed safety advice will come from local authorities and emergency services in the area. People should act on it promptly.