Natural catastrophes

24.12, earthquake

New Zealand: a strong earthquake struck New Zealand, collapsing at least three older buildings in one coastal city on North Island, sparking small fires and forcing authorities to declare a state of emergency there. Sixteen minor injuries were reported in the port city of Gisborne, which was hit hardest by the quake and suffered the most property damage, although it was felt all over the country. The magnitude-6.8 quakewas centered in the Hikurangi undersea trench off North Island, 25 miles below the surface, and about 30 miles southeast of Gisborne, the GNS Science geological agency reported. The US Geological Survey recorded the quake at magnitude 6.6. Police cordoned off a large part of Gisborne’s central business district until engineers could inspect damaged buildings and ensure they were safe to enter. Power lines were down in some areas, and the quake had left a huge hole in one of Gisborne’s main roads. The NZ Earthquake Commission’s estimates indicated NZ$23mn in damage was incurred.