Digital News Report A major earthquake, which is currently measured at 6.3 magnitude, has struck central Italy. The epicenter is in the town of L’Aquila, though the quake was felt as far as Lazio and Campania. Rome is only 60 miles SW of the epicenter. At least 27 were killed, and many are still trapped or have been left homeless by the damage.
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi declared a state of emergency as a result of the devastation, He also cancelled a visit to Moscow to travel to the quake-hit area. Approximately 10,000 to 15,000 buildings have been damaged. Mayor Massimo Cialente has stated that a university, churches, and other historic buildings have been seriously damaged or collapsed.
The quake was preceded by a 4.6 magnitude only two hours earlier. The larger earthquake occurred at 3:32am local time, which shook many out of bed. The smaller one caused no injuries or major damage. There have been three aftershocks measuring 4.3 or higher.
Many countries, including France, Germany, Israel, and Russia have offered assistance to the Italian government. Greece has a C-130 cargo plane standing by to fly out a rescue team.
There are about 80,000 people living in L’Aquila. It’s located in the mountainous Abruzzo region of Italy.
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