6.0 AND GREATER EARTHQUAKES ARE REPORTED ON THIS SITE AND ALL EARTHQUAKE STATS PERTAIN ONLY TO 6.0 AND GREATER MAGNITUDE QUAKES.

Map: USGS

A great 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit South Island, New Zealand, on November 13, 2016, at 11:02:58.3 UTC, at a depth of 10 km, reported CSEM-EMSC.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a Tsunami Information Statement on November 13, 2016, at 1112 UTC, reporting, “based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake. No action required,” for a reported 7.4 magnitude earthquake. However, a Tsunami Information Statement was issued by PTWC reporting an upgrade to 7.9 magnitude and that “a damaging local tsunami might have occurred. Appropriate actions should be taken to protect lives and property.”

Warning: A tsunami was generated 8.2’ above normal tide level, measured near Kaikoura. Don’t rely on initial tsunami statements! When a major earthquake hits, take every precaution, as though a tsunami could occur. I have noticed that these warnings are updated too late, so don’t wait, take precautions! It is better to be safe than sorry! It was only after the first tsunami waves hit the east coast of New Zealand that the Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management warned residents to move to higher ground. THAT IS TOO LATE! Do not rely on initial tsunami warning systems or Emergency Management Services, get to higher ground. The powers that be apparently could care less if people die!

Weather.com reported that there are casualties, but the numbers were not reported yet.