A massive earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck central Italy at 3:15 PM local time. The epicenter was near Amatrice, a town previously devastated by a quake in 2016. Emergency services are on high alert as reports of significant damage and casualties emerge from the affected areas.
The facts
Local authorities have activated emergency protocols and are deploying rescue teams to assess the situation and assist those in need. Hospitals in nearby cities are preparing for an influx of injured individuals.
The consequences
This earthquake is one of the strongest to hit the region in recent years, raising concerns about structural integrity in older buildings. Experts are closely monitoring aftershocks, which have already been reported.