Greater Christchurch earthquake

CIVIL DEFENCE
MEDIA STATEMENT

Earthquake – September 4, 2010 – 1.45 pm

Emergency Management for Greater Christchurch earthquake

Due to this morning’s 7.2 magnitude earthquake, a state of emergency has been declared for Christchurch city, Selwyn and Waimakariri Districts. The city’s state of emergency is likely to be in place until noon Monday, the other districts for at least 24 hours.

The central city is closed to traffic inside Kilmore, Madras, Lichfield and Durham streets. People are being warned to stay away from the central city for their own safety and to let emergency services do their job.

People living in all areas of Christchurch city, Rolleston and Banks Peninsula are being advised to conserve water and boil drinking water for three minutes because of potential contamination from broken water and sewer pipes.

Power is being restored gradually.

Structural engineers are assessing damage. You can report damage to the Christchurch City Council by calling 03 941 8999 but please be patient as lines will be busy.
State highway 77 at Glentunnel is closed, all other roads and bridges are reported as working. See www.nzta.govt.nz

Civil Defence advises residents to:
- Expect aftershocks. Each time you feel one, drop, cover, and hold on.
- Help those around you if you can.
- See your local council website for information www.ccc.govt.nz or www.waimakariri.govt.nz or www.selwyn.govt.nz
- Only attend A and E at the hospital or after hours medical centres if absolutely essential.

Listen to the radio for advice and information.

ENDS