Hamner Springs Earthquake and Tsunami: Update 3

Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management - Hamner Springs Earthquake and Tsunami media release 3

This morning’s tsunami threat has been downgraded. There is still a marine and beach threat in place from from Napier to north of Dunedin, Cook Strait coastal areas and the Chatham Islands. For those who evacuated, please check whether or not an evacuation order is still in place for your area before heading home. For the remainder of New Zealand there is no threat.

Tsunami waves have been recorded on the New Zealand Tsunami Gauge Network in Kaikoura and Christchurch (Canterbury), Wellington and Castlepoint (Wairarapa). Waves are expected to continue for at least the next few hours. People should continue to look out for themselves, their families, pets and loved ones and follow the advice of their local civil defence groups.

There have been two confirmed fatalities. Injuries have been reported in Canterbury, and Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Groups have reported evacuations in Canterbury, Marlborough, Nelson/Tasman, Wellington, Manawatu/Wanganui and the Chatham Islands. The number of injuries and evacuees are not known at this time. Our thoughts are with families and communities affected by the quakes and tsunami.

Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management Director, Sarah Stuart-Black said, ‘the New Zealand public have responded, and continue to respond, to the earthquakes and tsunami warning in a calm and safe way. We’ve seen evacuations in most of the at risk areas and know that many New Zealanders have been checking in with friends and loved ones since the quakes began at midnight.’

‘I want to particularly thank those who evacuated, either at their own discretion or after receiving instructions to do so. Your strength, trust and willingness to do the right thing not only helps to keep people safe, but makes our jobs and the jobs of other emergency services much easier. ’

Transport has been disrupted including state highway one between Blenheim and Picton is closed. State Highway 6 between Blenheim and Nelson and State Highway 7 between Springs Junction and the Waipara are also closed. Several bridges on the state highway network are reported as damaged and closed. Hanmer Springs is cut off. Rail networks in the lower North Island, and between Christchurch and Picton, are closed. All InterIslander ferries have been cancelled today.

As information continues to flow in we have received multiple reports of damage to property in the South and North Islands. Damage has been reported in the Canterbury, Blenheim and Wellington regions, including widespread damage and building collapses reported in Kaikoura. Electricity outages have been reported in Wellington and Manawatu/Wanganui. Building inspections are underway to ensure that they are safe to occupy. If your property has been damaged make sure you check for any dangers such as gas or water leaks. Your insurance provider and the Earthquake Commission will be able to provide advice on how to lodge a claim for any damage.

The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management activated the National Crisis Management Centre just after midnight. The centre is currently staffed by representatives from several agencies, including GNS Science, NZ Police, NZ Fire Service, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Transport and NZ Defence Force. The centre is monitoring and providing support to local authorities as needed. The National Crisis Management Centre will remain activated for as long as required.

ends

Earlier:

Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management

Media release #2

14 November 2016, 5:55am

As aftershocks from this morning’s earthquakes continue, the Ministry of Civil Defence And Emergency Management is urging all New Zealanders to stay safe, take care of each other, keep calm and follow the advice of their local civil defence groups.

The tsunami warning has now been downgraded but some risk remains. See the latest tsunami threat map (attached) for details. Some evacuation notices are in the progress of being lifted. For an update on the situation in your local area check with your local civil defence group.

The earthquakes and tsunami have affected different areas of New Zealand differently. Local authorities are working as hard and fast as they can to take care of communities and build a picture of how New Zealand has been affected.

Tsunami waves are still arriving and aftershocks are expected to continue. Each time you feel one drop, cover and hold.  Stay away from evacuated areas until advised by your local civil defence group that it is safe to return. Check with your employer and with transport providers before leaving for work. Where possible stay out of damaged buildings and always check with building managers or owners before entering.

There are widespread reports of damage and some initial reports of casualties but it is too early to confirm details. Local and central government authorities will provide more information as soon as possible. The public should watch out for fallen powerlines, broken gas lines and other damage that could be dangerous. Infrastructure damage should be reported to service providers.  Anyone in need of emergency assistance where life or property is threatened is advised to call 111.

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