Powerful earthquake strikes New Zealand; at least two dead

The U.S. Geological Survey reports that a 7.8 magnitude quake struck some 59 miles from Christchurch, New Zealand just before midnight local time.

On Monday, November 14th, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred that originated about 9 miles northeast of Culverden on the southern island of New Zealand. The quake started at a depth of about 9.3 miles. There have been several severe aftershocks in the Seddon and Kaikoura areas. Quakes have been felt in Wellington which are early indications that the quakes originated from the Hope Fault.

The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) has issued a tsunami warning and land threat from East Cape to Southland, including Wellington (which also includes the Cook Straight area), Marlborough Sounds/Tasman Bay and the Chatham Islands, and a marine and beach threat for all other New Zealand coastal areas.

Tsunami waves hit the northeastern shore, but damage assessments are just beginning as warnings are lifted.

The strong initial quake caused immediate damage and several strong aftershocks have been felt.

Roads and bridges have been heavily damaged north of Cheviot and State Highway 1 between Picton and Waipara, north of Christchurch has now been closed.