Powerful Earthquake in Italy Kills 15

Posted May 29th, 2012 at 11:05 am (UTC-5)
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A powerful earthquake in northern Italy has left at least 15 people dead, striking after another deadly quake hit the same region earlier this month.

The U.S. Geological Survey says the 5.8 magnitude quake struck early Tuesday about 40 kilometers north-northwest of Bologna in the Emilia-Romagna region. The quake was felt across much of central and northern Italy, including the major city of Milan. Several strong aftershocks later hit the region.

Rescue officials are on the scene trying to help people trapped in the rubble of collapsed homes, factories and churches.

Tuesday's quake hit 58-kilometers east of Parma, where Italy was scheduled to play Luxembourg in a football match later in the day. Officials have canceled the match.

A little more than a week ago, a 6.0 magnitude quake in the same region killed seven people, destroyed factories and historic structures, and left many residents homeless. The quake also caused millions of dollars in losses to the region's agriculture sector, which is famous for its Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses.

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