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New Zealand 6.5 Earthquake Hits Near Wellington, Several Aftershocks

By Patricia Didelot
Published on: 00:58 PST, Aug 16, 2013

A strong earthquake has hit the the South Island near New Zealand’s capital of Wellington, followed by several aftershocks.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) the quake measured 6.5 on the Richter Scale and was followed by similarly strong aftershocks ranging from 5.9 to 4.5 in intensity.

GeoNet states the first earthquake was felt at 2:31 p.m. local time and was located at a depth of 8 kilometers.

No reports of injuries have surfaced, but the population is feeling anxious due to the relatively smaller quakes that keep affecting the region.

The Australian Associated Press reported around 2,500 homes without power, which has since been restored.

People were leaving the city capital in large numbers creating road congestion since many businesses sent workers home early. Reports are that all roads are clear in Wellington, but some cracks have been spotted.

Train services were stopped for a few hours while tracks were inspected and Wellington airport was also closed for a time.

New Zealand residents took to Twitter to let family and friends know all was well in Wellington despite the continuing aftershocks.

Here’s a couple from a freelance reporter,

Some shared reports of small damage to offices,

Despite the strength of the earthquake that hit New Zealand, there have been no tsunami warnings issued.

[Image via Lonelyplanet.com]

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