New Zealand Earthquake 2016

A powerful magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck New Zealand’s South Island, killing at least two people, on November 14th 2016. The earthquake occurred at 00.02 am.

2016 New Zealand Earthquake Map – Source BBC News

It was felt as far afield as the capital Wellington on the North Island, 120 miles (200km) away.

A tsunami arrived about two hours later. People along the eastern coast were warned to head inland or to higher ground.

Primary Effects of the 2016 New Zealand Earthquake

• Two people died.
• Fifty people were injured.
• Sixty people needed emergency housing.
• Over 190km of roads and 200km of railway lines were destroyed
• Twenty thousand buildings were damaged or destroyed.
• Water, sewerage & power supplies were cut off.
• Total damage is estimated at US $8.5 billion.

Secondary Effects of the 2016 New Zealand Earthquake

• One hundred thousand landslides blocked roads and railways.
• A landslide blocked the Clarence River, causing flooding. Ten farms were evacuated.
• The earthquake triggered a tsunami of 5m, leaving debris up to250 metres inland.

Immediate Responses to the 2016 New Zealand Earthquake

• A tsunami warning was issued, and residents were told to get to higher ground.
• Hundreds were housed in emergency shelters.
• Two hundred vulnerable people were evacuated by helicopter.
• Power was restored within hours.
  International warships were sent to Kaikoura with supplies such as food, medicine and portable toilets.
• Temporary water supplies set up.
• Other countries sent food and medicine.

Long-term Responses to the 2016 New Zealand Earthquake

• $5.3 million from District Council for repairs and rebuilding.
• Road and rail routes reopened within two years.
• A relief fund was set up to provide basic supplies.
• By March 2017, a permanent water main had been laid in Kaikoura. the new pipe was designed to move with any future earthquakes so it won’t break