Huge Earthquake Rattles New Zealand

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake has struck New Zealand, causing widespread damage to Christchurch’s city center. According to the New Zealand Herald, the shake lasted approximately one minute and was so violent that buildings rocked back and forth, tarmac on the roads cracked, and water mains burst, flooding the streets. Multiple deaths have been confirmed, and the city has run out of ambulances. The nation's cabinet is holding an emergency meeting to coordinate relief efforts, and Prime Minister John Key is urging Christchurch residents to evacuate the city in case more buildings fall.