At least three earthquakes struck near Christchurch, New Zealand Friday, prompting authorities to close the Christchurch airport. The New Zealand Ministry of Civil Defense and Emergency Management reported at least two people were injured. Damages are still being assessed.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the first tremor struck at a depth of 2.9 miles shortly before 2 p.m. The epicenter of the 5.8 magnitude quake was located 16 miles east-northeast of Christchurch. Less than ten minutes later, the same area was rattled by a 5.3 magnitude earthquake. A 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit the region nearly an hour and a half later.
No deaths have been reported. The series of earthquakes come 10 months after Christchurch was hit by a powerful 6.3 magnitude tremor. More than 180 people were killed and the business district sustained major damages.
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