Earthquake in Canterbury - December 23, 2011

A magnitude 5.8 quake struck at 1:58 pm, 23 December 2011, 20km northeast of Lyttelton, near Christchurch, with a large aftershock occurring at 3:20 pm.

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in New Zealand recommend any Americans in the affected area refer to guidance provided by local authorities on building closures, transportation stoppages, power outages, and other important safety information.

The following link provides sound guidance on how to stay safe in case of further aftershocks: http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/

The link below can also provide further updates on conditions in Christchurch.  http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/

U.S. Citizen Services

U.S. Consulate General Auckland, New Zealand

Ph: +64-9-303-2724 extn: 2800 Fax: +64-9-366-0870

A/H: +64-4-462-6000 aucklandacs@state.gov

For the latest security information, U.S. Citizens travelling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State Internet web site: http://travel.state.gov where current Worldwide Caution Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements can be found. U.S. Citizens traveling or residing abroad are encouraged to register with Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) (https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs). It allows U.S. citizens to record foreign trip and residence information that Department of State can use to communicate with and assist citizens in an emergency.