A strong earthquake has struck New Zealand’s South Island, causing significant damage.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake’s epicenter was 20 miles northwest of Christchurch. With a population of 340,000, Christchurch is New Zealand’s third-largest city.
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck at 4:35 a.m. local time Saturday (11:35 a.m. Friday CDT) at a depth of 10 miles.
There were no immediate reports of injuries, but The Press newspaper of Christchurch reported the earthquake had caused power outages and property damage, with rubble lying in the street in some places.
“Oh my God. There is a row of shops completely demolished right in front of me,” Colleen Simpson told the newspaper.
Railroad service on the South Island, a popular tourist destination, has been suspended as a precautionary measure......
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