The United States Geological Survey has recorded the earthquake at a 7.0 on the Richter Scale; it was originally recorded to be a 7.2, but has since been downgraded. This is one of the biggest earthquakes in the country's recorded history.
An aftershock that measured 5.7 followed about 20 minutes after the first quake, and some sources states the aftershocks are still ongoing.
According to early reports from The Press in New Zealand, the earthquake has wiped out much of the power across Christchurch and Canterbury. The rail network on the South Island has closed down while it is inspected for damage.
Power is expected to be off in Christchurch for most of the day, and officials are concerned that soon the cellphone towers could fail as they are currently running on batteries. If they fail there will be no communication links.
The Press Has a Video of the Damage
Interview With the Manager of the Rydges Hotel in Christchurch
The earthquake did not prompt any tsunami warnings as it was inland, and no one has been reported to have been killed but there are those with minor injuries and two with serious injuries.
There have been many reports of damage to buildings and property, including power lines down and some buildings have been compromised. Some people are still trapped in their homes.
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