As most of you know by now, a magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck at 5:09 pm, 21 July 2013, 30km east of Seddon, affecting urban areas in the North and South Islands, including Wellington, Blenheim, Nelson, and Palmerston North. A series of aftershocks have followed, with experts from GNS Science predicting additional aftershocks. Any Americans in the affected area should refer to guidance provided by their local authorities on building closures, transportation stoppages, power outages, and other important safety information. The American Citizens Services Unit at the Consulate General in Auckland remains open for business as usual. We would like to remind everyone of the various ways you can get in touch with the U.S. Mission in New Zealand in case of an emergency involving American citizens. We particularly draw everyone’s attention to the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP – https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs) which is also useful for those residing in New Zealand who wish to receive regular information from the Embassy and the Consulate General. Please feel free to share this information with friends and family, and, as always, please contact us at the e-mail address below with any questions. U.S. Citizen Services U.S. Consulate General Auckland, New Zealand Ph: +64-9-303-2724 extn: 2800 Fax: +64-9-366-0870 After Hours: +64-4-462-6000 [email protected] The U.S. Embassy in Wellington and Consulate General in Auckland want to take this opportunity to remind American citizens resident in or visiting New Zealand of the importance of being prepared for potential emergencies such as earthquakes. Both the U.S. Government and the Government of New Zealand have extensive information available on how to prepare for various emergencies. We recommend reviewing the information on these websites to help you and your family prepare in advance for these eventualities: civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf getthru.govt.nz/web/GetThru.nsf ready.gov/natural-disasters For people in the areas affected by this weekend’s earthquakes, the following link provides sound guidance on how to stay safe in case of further aftershocks: civildefence.govt.nz/ The link below provides further updates on conditions in Central New Zealand: https://facebook/WREMOnz For the latest security information, U.S. Citizens travelling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State Internet web site: travel.state.gov/ where current Worldwide Caution Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements can be found. U.S. Citizens traveling or residing abroad are encouraged to register with Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) (https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs). It allows U.S. citizens to record foreign trip and residence information that Department of State can use to communicate in case of emergency.
Posted on: Mon, 22 Jul 2013 01:53:02 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015