34th major aftershock, magnitude 5.2, centered at Libertador O’Higgins, #Chile - U.S. Geological Survey
MAP 5.2 2010/02/27 16:50:20 -34.162 -72.010 35.0 LIBERTADOR O’HIGGINS, CHILE
People in low lying parts of Banks Peninsula are advised to prepare to evacuate their homes by 8am on Sunday because of the tsunami warning.
Waves up three metres high could arrive along the east coast of New Zealand following a magnitude 8.8 earthquake in Chile.
Civil Defence says the first waves are expected in the Chathams at 7.22am on Sunday.
Banks Peninsula residents may not be able to return hole for at least 24 hours and should take with them any essential medicines and baby needs.
As well, they should take important documents, a batteries-powered radio and torch bottled water, and extra clothing and footwear.
Civil Defence warns the first waves to hit the entire east coast of New Zealand and may arrive later than forecast, and may not be the largest.
It says strong currents and unusual tidal effects may continue for several hours.
Acting National Controller of Civil Defence Alan Walker says there are already many reports of people sightseeing in Canterbury. They are warned to stay away.
Farmers are advised to move stock to higher ground.
RadioNewZealand
On May 22, 1960, the earthquake that struck Valdivia Chile had a magnitude of 9.5 on the Richter scale. This is the strongest earthquake ever recorded by instruments in the world. On the previous day, an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 struck the city of Concepción which is north of Valdivia.
The second strongest earthquake in the world occurred on December 26 2004 and had a magnitude of 9.3. The epicenter was on the ocean floor near the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia and caused a deadly tsunami in the Indian Ocean.
The third strongest earthquake occurred on Good Friday, March 27, 1964 in Alaska, an earthquake with a magnitude of 9.2 struck Prince William Sound and caused extensive damage in Anchorage