Earthquake Wellington: The Heart-Pounding Moments I'll Never Forget

I was about 10 years old when it happened. I was playing outside our house with my friends when suddenly the ground started to shake violently. At first, we laughed, thinking it was just a fun game. But then the shaking intensified, and we realized it was an earthquake!

We ran inside the house screaming, and my parents grabbed us and held us tight under a doorway frame. The shaking seemed endless, and the house creaked and groaned around us. It felt like the whole world was going to crumble.

When the shaking finally stopped, we stumbled outside and found our neighborhood in chaos. Bricks from chimneys had fallen into the streets, and some houses had even collapsed. It was a surreal sight, and I couldn't believe my eyes.

For the next few days, we lived in aftershocks. The constant fear of another big quake hanging over our heads was unbearable. We slept on the floor in our sleeping bags, and every little tremor sent us running for cover.

It took months for us to recover from the earthquake, both physically and emotionally. But the experience also taught us a lot about the importance of community. Neighbors helped neighbors, and strangers offered us food and shelter. It was a reminder that even in the darkest of times, kindness can shine through.

• Did You Know? The Wellington earthquake was a 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the Wellington region of New Zealand on July 21, 2013.
• Fun Fact: The earthquake was so strong that it caused the Hutt River to flow in reverse for several hours.
• Personal Reflection: I'm grateful to have lived through such a harrowing experience, but I'm also aware of the privilege I have. For many people around the world, earthquakes are a devastating reality they face far too often.

The Wellington earthquake was a life-changing event for me. It taught me the importance of preparedness, the strength of community, and the fragility of life. And while I hope I never have to experience another earthquake, I'm grateful for the lessons it taught me.