Shallow, sizable aftershock shakes Christchurch city.

Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group reports that up to 10,000 people lost power and a number of buildings were evacuated in Christchurch city following this morning’s earthquake.

Jon Mitchell, manager, regional emergency management office, said while there have been no reports of injuries, some buildings suffered minor damage and some properties in the Halswell area were affected by further liquefaction.

“We have had inquiries from people in the central city wondering if they should stay inside or go outside during sizeable aftershocks like this morning's," said Jon Mitchell.

"It depends on the street-scape outside. If there are old or already damaged buildings nearby, they should probably stay inside and shelter under desks or in doorways, away from any loose shelving, until the shaking stops. Business and building owners should have plans in place for this eventuality as we can expect further quakes at any time.”

Jon Mitchell said the shallowness of this morning's 5.0 magnitude aftershock, its closeness to Christchurch City (located near Tai Tapu) and the nature of the quake itself meant the shaking was particularly felt by many people in and near Christchurch.

Some residents lost power for around thirty minutes, which was quickly restored by Orion. The Christchurch City Council offices were evacuated and checked as a precaution, as was Westfield (Riccarton) Mall. The Lyttelton tunnel was also closed temporarily due to a power outage.

ENDS

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