UPDATE (2:27 PM EDT, 2/24/11): 103 confirmed dead; 228 still missing. The Hotel Grand Chancellor, one of the tallest buildings in Christchurch remains standing, but continues to lean and is expected to collapse.
UPDATE: 98 confirmed dead; 226 still missing.
At 12:51 PM NZDT on February 22nd, 2010, a 6.3 Mw earthquake at a depth of 5km hit 10km South of Christchurch, New Zealand. This is the second major earthquake to hit the region in 6 months as a 7.1 Mw quake hit on September 4th. Massive building destruction and liquefaction has occurred across the area. Unlike the last earthquake, which happened overnight and damage wasn't very profound, this quake has decimated large areas. It is a scary reminder of what happened in San Francisco and Oakland 20 years ago.
Currently 76 are said to be dead, with a potential of 300 still missing and unaccounted for. Most of the rescue missions have turned into recovery and clean-up missions as the signs of life have begun to dissipate.
My condolences go out to everyone in New Zealand. It's amazing how you feel about certain places when you have friends there. I hope they are able to rebuild and move forward.
Live coverage: news.com.au
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