A strong earthquake struck shortly after 7:05 a.m. in Catania. The quake was also clearly felt in several towns around Etna and in Augusta. The INGV estimates its magnitude between 4.1 and 4.6.

An automatic location by the INGV, currently undergoing further verification, estimates the earthquake to have had a magnitude of 4.5 and places the hypocenter on Mount Etna , in an area northwest of Ragalna, at a depth of approximately 3.8 kilometers. The event was felt not only in the Catania area, but also in the Messina and Syracuse areas.

Fortunately, no damage or injury was reported, but schools will remain closed for safety. Mayor Enrico Trantino announced that classes are suspended today as a precaution to allow inspections of the school buildings. A similar measure has been taken in several municipalities in the province.

(Unioneonline)

© Riproduzione riservata