2011 Christchurch earthquake

The 2011 Christchurch earthquake was a powerful magnitude 6.3 quake that struck New Zealand’s South Island on February 22. Occurring just months after a larger quake in September 2010, it was centered near Christchurch, causing widespread destruction including collapsed buildings, ground shaking, and infrastructure damage. Despite its relatively moderate magnitude, its shallow depth and proximity to the city resulted in intense shaking. The earthquake led to 185 deaths, thousands injured, and significant economic and urban rebuilding efforts, highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic activity.