Cyclone Warning Media Release [Template]

Civil Defence urges residents and visitors to be prepared following earthquake

A [magnitude (TBC)] earthquake struck [location/area] at [time/date (TBC)], causing shaking across [region/district]. [CDEM Group name] Civil Defence is monitoring the situation and working closely with partner agencies to assess any damage and coordinate response.

[Insert name] Civil Defence Controller says the priority right now is ensuring people are safe and that any immediate hazards are identified. Aftershocks are expected and may continue for hours, days, or weeks following the initial earthquake.

"Aftershocks can be significant and we want people to be ready to Drop, Cover and Hold each time they feel one. There is also the potential for [insert relevant secondary hazards — slips, damage to infrastructure, road closures] in the coming hours as we get a clearer picture of the impact across the region."

[Insert name] Controller says the [insert name] Civil Defence team is in close contact with NZ Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and the Regional Council as the situation develops and information around potential hazards becomes clearer.

"This morning we met with all of the region's local councils, local emergency services, and other key stakeholders and we are all prepared to respond as required."

"We are working to ensure our resources are strategically placed around the region so we can respond effectively where needed."

While the response gets underway, we are asking [region/district/community] residents and visitors to take some time now to check on their whānau and neighbours, particularly those who are elderly or vulnerable, and to be aware of potential hazards in their area.

[Insert name] Controller urges people to keep up to date at: [CONFIRM: agency website URL]

Key actions to take now:

Check yourself and those around you for injuries and get first aid if needed. Stay out of damaged buildings and watch for fallen power lines — do not touch them and keep others away. If you smell gas, leave the building immediately, open windows if safe to do so, and turn off the gas supply. If you see electrical damage, turn off power at the main fuse box if it is safe to do so. Take notes and photographs of any property damage for insurance purposes.

For more tips on preparing for and recovering from an earthquake visit: https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/earthquakes/

[Insert name] Controller says if you, your whānau, and/or your property are at risk, contact emergency services immediately on 111.

Civil Defence will continue to monitor the situation and will post updates on its Facebook page: [CONFIRM: insert link]

These updates can also be viewed on the [insert name] website: [CONFIRM: insert link]

Other useful links:

To check for road closures and delays on state highways: https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions or follow [CONFIRM: Waka Kotahi link]

For local roads check your local council's pages: [CONFIRM: insert link]

For power outages check: [CONFIRM: insert link]

To check if your property may be in a flood prone area or exposed to potential hazards check: [CONFIRM: insert link]