A strong earthquake struck near the central Italian town of L’Aquila early this morning, demolishing buildings and infrastructure. The death toll has already reached 50, but local authorities have indicated that many more people are missing and feared dead.
Estimates of the quake’s strength are between 5.8 and 6.3 on the Richter Scale. Aquila, around 60 miles (96 kms), northeast of Rome, was apparently the quake’s epicenter. It is the capital of the Abruzzes region with a population of around 72,000.
Over 10,000 structures have suffered some damage, ranging from complete destruction to cracks and broken glass. Roads and bridges, including parts of an autostrada, were also reportedly damaged by the quake.
Local rescue efforts are being reinforced by the arrival of personnel from national services. Neighboring countries have also offered their help in rescue efforts. Many people are feared trapped beneath the tons of rubble.
Villages in the surrounding rugged mountainous terrain have also been struck by the quake, and rescue teams are endeavoring to reach them. So far no estimates of the deaths and damages outside of Aquila have been released.
Source: news reports
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