The challenge of natural hazards: Natural hazards - Christchuch (HIC Case Study)

Question 1

Key info

Answer 1

• 22nd February 2011
• Conservative plate boundary
• 6.3 Richter scale

Question 2

Primary effects

Answer 2

• 185 people died, 6659 major injuries
• 10 000 homes damaged, 3500 homes demolished, power outages, the port was damaged and many buildings collapsed.
• Water supplies and communications/roads were disrupted
• Liquefaction caused the ground to sink in places

Question 3

Secondary effects

Answer 3

• Schools were shut
• Many businesses remained closed
• Christchurch couldn’t host 5 Rugby World Cup matches

Question 4

Immediate responses

Answer 4

• International aid was provided (around $6-7 million).
• Aid workers from charities such as the Red Cross came to help.
• Areas were zoned to assess damage.
• 300 Australian police officers were flown in.