23 November 2010 Public seminars to land some answers

Almost everything you want to know about the science behind the recent Canterbury Earthquake is about to be revealed.

Two scientists are preparing to share their learnings from the recent Canterbury earthquake at two public seminars next week.

Dr Peter Almond, a soil scientist from Lincoln University, and Dr Tom Wilson, a natural hazards specialist from University of Canterbury, have been considering the science around the earthquake and can shed light on some of the issues the quake has raised.

The two have been studying why the September 4 earthquake happened, why we are still getting aftershocks, the damage caused and the likelihood of it all happening again amongst other questions.

Dr Wilson will describe the geological aspects of the earthquake and Dr Almond will explain the impacts of that on land, including liquefaction, lateral spreading and flooding.

Both men say they want to increase general awareness of earthquake hazards in general and in relation to the Selwyn District in Canterbury in particular, so people have information they can rely on.

Information will also be available about the impact the earthquake has had on people and the support available to families. The seminars will not deal with insurance queries.

The first lecture will be on Tuesday November 30, 7pm to 9pm, at Lincoln University in the Stewart building and the second on Thursday December 2, 7pm to 9pm, in the Darfield Recreational Centre.

Members of the public and media are welcome and invited to ask questions of the speakers.