New Zealand: Large Earthquake in Christchurch
September 4th, 2010Several people have written in, wondering if we’re ok. We’re fine. We live in the Far North and didn’t even feel it up here. I was awake at the time of the quake, washing nappies, of all things, and it was just another quiet night here.
Via: New Zealand Herald:
Sewage and water concerns are among the top priorities for emergency services in the wake of this morning’s 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Christchurch.
The city was left devastated after the quake struck 30km west of the city at 4.35am this morning.
The quake was at a depth of 33km and was centred near Darfield.
Water and sewage pipes are burst with Mayor Bob Parker saying the city may resort to taking water from the Avon River.
He says the water and sewage system in not operating. Power is also out in large parts of the city.
Burwood Hospital in Christchurch is among many homes and services without water.
Plans are in place to get milk tankers full of water into the city but the water was likely to be rationed and people must conserve it.
Residents have been asked not to flush toilets and boil any water before drinking.
kinda surprised that there are no comments so far.
re: preparedness: many people in Christchurch were caught out by having virtually no cash. yes, the fiat paper stuff is much more useful than the fiat electronic stuff on some bank’s computers when all the power goes out. EFT-POS (paying with your bank ATM card) is ubiquitous in NZ. most people carry a few coins around and a plastic card. but in a blackout the paper stuff rules.
also, sawdust and spade and a makeshift kit for a makeshift toilet is maybe more important than water. or at least as important. batteries, radio, portable gas stove, torches, blah, blah…