December 23, 2011. Government Warning Issued for New Zealand

SOURCE:

U.S. Department of State

A magnitude 5.8 quake struck at 1:58 pm, 20km northeast of Lyttelton, near Christchurch, with a large aftershock occurring at 3:20 pm.

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in New Zealand recommend any Americans in the affected area refer to guidance provided by local authorities on building closures, transportation stoppages, power outages, and other important safety information.

The following link provides sound guidance on how to stay safe in case of further aftershocks:

http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf/Files/earthquake_safety_advice-print/$file/earthquake_safety_advice-print.pdf

The links below can also provide further updates on conditions in Christchurch.

http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf

http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/

Copyright © 2011, U.S. Department of State