New Zealand Earthquake: Powerful Tremor Hits South Island

A powerful earthquake has struck New Zealand's South Island. The US Geological Survey said the magnitude-7.8 quake hit just after midnight (11:02 GMT on Sunday), some 95km (59 miles) from Christchurch.

A tsunami arrived in the north-eastern coast about two hours later. Residents were warned to head inland or for higher ground along the entire coast. "The first wave may not be the largest. Tsunami activity will continue for several hours," the ministry tweeted.

New Zealand lies on the notorious Ring of Fire, the line of frequent quakes and volcanic eruptions that circles virtually the entire Pacific rim. Christchurch is still recovering from the 2011 earthquake that killed 185 people and destroyed the city centre.



http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-37967178

I hope that any of our members that are directly/indirectly affected by this can post their perspective below. Meanwhile, my prayers and best wishes go out to all affected.