Christchurch earthquake aftershock animation

Here is a fascinating animation of the aftershocks, over 770 so far, since the 7.1 earthquake in Christchurch, NZ on Sep 4.

Yes, there have been larger earthquakes, and some that have caused more building damage (where construction codes less stringently established or applied) or huge loss of life. But this animation gives you a feel for what to expect if you happen to be in the neighborhood.

http://gsa.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3addbef173e1590b09478aef3&id=d6fd642756&e=29a3426066

Volcanoes give some seismic warning before eruption, and if authorities are on the ball enough to to head for safety. With earthquakes, there is no warning and the big one is the first one. But aftershocks can still cause damage as well as psychological unease. Of course people look for 'seismic gaps' to predict zones which a big one is likely at some point (geological time...)

Another link, with 97 photos of damage related to the earthquake
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/photos/4095395/Latest-photos-7-1-quake

 

Good luck nobody was killed. But it is a pity, so many nice buildings lost.