A seismologist from the USA has stated that it seems possible that the worst of the aftershocks and quakes in Christchurch and Canterbury have passed. Experts concluded this after examining the sequence of almost 8000 aftershocks that have occurred since the 7.1 earthquake on the 4th September 2010.
Aftershocks Decreasing in Christchurch
On Friday 8th July 2011, Stuff.co.nz reported that Professor Kevin Furlong of Pennsylvania State University had said that aftershock activity was decreasing after the 3 major earthquakes in Christchurch. This was a good sign and it did not seem likely that there would be another spike in seismic activity. However, it is still possible that the city will experience a few more large aftershocks as remaining energy is released.
Over the 24 hour period from 9pm on 7th July to 9pm on 8th July, Canterbury Quake Live recorded 10 aftershocks. The strongest of these was a 3.8 magnitude that occurred 11:36am and was centred 8 kilometers from the CBD of Christchurch. It was 6.54 kilometers deep and released 7 tonnes of energy.
Earthquake Red-Zone Helicopter Trips in Christchurch
Helipro in Christchurch is offering 15 minute trips across the center of town. The red zone in the inner city is still cordoned off and is home to a number of severely damaged buildings including Christchurch Cathedral. A number of business owners are still awaiting access to their premises while the general public have no chance of entering the area.
The helicopter trips carry a maximum of five people and offer photographic opportunities as well as a good aerial view of the damage. Feelings about the trips are mixed with some residents saying it is just a different form of rubbernecking while others say it is a healing process to actually see the devastation for themselves.
The Role of Journalists in Earthquake-Damaged Christchurch
This week, a freelance Christchurch journalist was accused of hating the city because of what she had written about it. While her reports were factual, they were misconstrued as personal opinion. The same person accused the writer of attracting looters to damaged malls by her photography, although similar images had been broadcast across the world. The journalist said the accusations were untrue and that she cares deeply about Christchurch.
Many people have a love-hate relationship with the media. They find them annoying at times but when there is a major disaster, newspapers, television and internet become vital sources of information. Much of the news is negative by nature but stories of human courage and compassion are the silver lining. This is what is being seen on a daily basis in Christchurch.
Debbie Roome - Debbie Roome is an award-winning freelance writer, journalist and novelist with over 25 years experience.
