The probability of another 7.0-plus quake striking have fallen further, GeoNet reported today, but large aftershocks are still likely across a large area of New Zealand. The latest forecast issued by GeoNet put the probability of another quake over 7.0 occurring within the next 30 days at 21 per cent, compared with chances of 10 per cent this week and two per cent within the next 24 hours. GeoNet spokesperson Caroline Little said aftershocks were occurring throughout a broad area that surrounded the faults that ruptured in Monday's 7.8 earthquake. In comparison, the probability of damaging shaking in the Wellington area was less than 10 per cent in that period. Felt aftershocks would occur from the 7.8 epicentre near Culverden, right up along the Kaikoura coastline to the Cape Palliser and Wellington area.

Source: New Zealand Herald November 20, 2016 01:05 UTC