“Multiple fatalities have been reported at several
locations in the central city, including two buses
crushed by falling buildings. A doctor and emergency
services are attending,” police said in a statement.
“Other reports include multiple building collapses, fires
in buildings in the central (city) and persons reported
trapped in buildings.” (AAP)
Update (22/2/11 13:48), news.com.au:
“At least 65 people killed in Christchurch”
Update (22/2/11 14:27), TVNewZealand: WARNING: SOME DISTURBING IMAGES
Summary:
+ A magnitude 6.3 earthquake rocks Christchurch on February 22 at 12.51pm local time (1051 AEDT).
+ GNS Science said the quake struck 20km southeast of Christchurch, at a depth of 5km.
+ Police have confirmed there have been “multiple fatalities”.
+ Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says several people in the city council building had been injured.
+ The national crisis management centre has been activated.
+ People in the area are being warned to expect aftershocks.
+ Prime Minister John Key has addressed parliament, says he will travel to Christchurch after an emergency cabinet meeting at 3pm (1700 AEDT).
+ The spire of the Christchurch Cathedral has collapsed.
+ The TVNZ building in Christchurch had reportedly collapsed.
+ Christchurch airport was closed.
+ Police were evacuating the city centre, using their cars to ferry the injured as ambulances failed to cope with demand.
+ Reports say several buildings in the CBD have collapsed, and witnesses say people are trapped underneath.
+ Roads have buckled.
+ Water pipes have burst on the street; residents have been warned not to drink the water.
+ Phone lines are reportedly down.
+ It’s the region’s second major quake since Canterbury was hit on September 4, 2010, by a 7.1 magnitude quake.
+ The September 4 quake caused extensive damage and a handful of injuries, but no deaths.
+ Thousands of aftershocks have since rattled the region.
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