SHOCKS AT WHAKATANE

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 46, 24 February 1942, Page 4

SHOCKS AT WHAKATANE

ACTIVITY ON WHITE ISLAND

(0.C.) AUCKLAND, This Day,

Commencing with a definite earthquake about 11 p.m. on Saturday, shocks and tremors continued at Whakatane throughout the hours of darkness, creating nervousness among residents.

The first shock was preceded by a noise resembling a faint detonation. The tremors numbered over a score, one resident stating that he counted 25 between 1 a.m. and daybreak. No damage was done.

More shocks were felt on, Sunday night, rather a severe one occurring about 11.30 o'clock. A muffled report was followed by a jerky motion, and from then on throughout the night shocks were felt at frequent intervals. Each was preceded by rumbling, which was more pronounced nearer the sea. It is thought that they were purely local. People on the seafront found the shocks and rumbling greater than did others 12 miles inland. Very minor damage is reported, including the collapse of one chimney-top.

White Island is receiving the blame for the disturbances. A new vent is said to be expelling a large amount of steam.

With a view to co-ordinating action by school committees in regard to I ho provision at schools of suitable airraid shelters, first-aid equipment, firefighting appliances, etc., a meeting will be held in the Education Board's building, Abel Smith Street, at 8 p.m. on Thursday.