Christchurch Earthquake 2011 Day II
1349: Just grabbed the local Melbourne newspapers. The Financial Review has the factual “Quake devastates Christchurch” headline. The Australian headline is “NZ earthquake kills 65, hundreds still trapped” and The Age proclaims it “New Zealand’s darkest day”.
1159: Blood Service have put out a PR saying there is *no* need for urgent blood donations, and also no donation facilities currently operative in Christchurch.
1139: Very emotional first hand account of earthquake by Press staffer Vicki Anderson. It’s a must read.
1129: Offers of assistance accepted from Japan, Taiwan, UK, US and Australia. Last earthquake cost $6b to $8b and this may be greater.
1126: PM says Police have confirmed 75 dead, of which 20 are yet to be identified. A national state of emergency has been declared and Civil Defence Minister will make a statement to Parliament. PM says he has notified Phil Goff of declaration and also thanked Goff for his assistance on the ground.
1123: Bob Parker says estimated dead now at least 75. There are also 300 missing but just a few minutes ago a report came of 15 survivors trapped in the CTV building. Also PM has declared flags at half mast until further notice.
0928: Now 39 confirmed dead.
0927: Have placed a widget for easy donation through Givealittle in the sidebar. Widgets are here. Donations will go to the official relief fund if one is established, otherwise 50/50 to Red Cross and Salvation Army.
0922: Earthquakes Video HQ has a video tribute site established, along with details of where to donate.
0917: Air NZ is offering international fares to and from Christchurch for families of only $50 to Australia/Pacific and $400 to Asia or US. Plus $50 domestic fares, and additional flights. Well done Air NZ.
First of all, no politics, no name calling here. Doing so will get your comments deleted and you on a holiday.
- Google has a person finder app for those seeking someone or have information about someone.
- Cabinet meets at 0930 and will declare a national state of emergency (as oppossed to a regional one)
- Official death toll is 38, but it is expected to exceed 65 as multiple bodies are still trapped under buildings
- Parker has said it has been several hours since a live body has been recovered from rubblem but Police say there are still cries of help from some buildings