2011 Christcurch earthquakes

What was the strength of the earthquake?

6.2 magnitude

What were the impacts of the earthquake?

Mainly financial - only killing 185 people, causing $44.8 billion in damages.

Where does it rank in terms of the costliest

Why were the impacts more financial?

Higher level of development means that they are able to build earthquake resistant buildings, which reduces the amount of deaths, along with education. However, higher level of development means that there are is a lot more high value assest for the earthquake to damage (cars, brindges, roads and other significant infrastructure) meaning that it will cost more to repair.