HTH -- Haiti Earthquake

February 28, 2011. Earthquake death toll at 148, New Zealand's government authorizes N$120 million in immediate aid

SOURCE: Altegrity Risk International

Christchurch began to bury its dead on February 28th as the death toll from the February 22nd earthquake reached 148 people, with dozens still missing, reports indicated. The funerals began as rescue workers continued to search for survivors or victims' bodies, although aftershocks continued to hamper searches. No survivors have been found since February 23rd. Aftershocks and cracks in a cliff overlooking a Christchurch suburb worried local residents.

Prime Minister John Key said the earthquake's cost would likely reach NZ$20 billion (US$15 billion) and pledged an initial NZ$120 million (US$90 million) subsidies package to pay the salaries of those affected by the earthquake. About one third of the buildings in downtown Christchurch will likely have to be demolished, while hundreds of suburban homes may have to be demolished as well. While power was restored to most of Christchurch, officials called on local residents to boil their water to prevent contamination.