Disaster

Earthquake in Italy Kills at Least 100

40,000 to 50,000 left homeless by 6.3 shock.

At least 100 people are dead after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake shook Italy nearly 60 miles northeast of Rome. It’s reported that many buildings have collapsed in L’Aquila, the center of the quake, previously known as a “picturesque Medieval fortress hill town.” Many are trapped under rubble and 40,000 to 50,000 are left homeless from the movement that was felt miles away. Four children are reported to be among the dead. An American missionary reports: “There are many palazzi that are cracked—walls have fallen in.” He also said that a church in town had been badly damaged. “The bell tower has crumbled.” While not unusual, it’s rare for seismic activity to be this strong in Italy.