Italy Earthquake Devastates Historic Town Of L’Aquila

 L’Aquila, Italy, about 60 miles north of Rome, was struck by a powerful earthquake early this morning that has killed dozens and destroyed untold amounts of property in the historic college town.

The magnitude 6.3 quake killed at least 50 people, according to Interior Minister Roberto Maroni, when it struck just before dawn today. Because of its historic nature, narrow roadways in L’Aquila and the surrounding towns make it difficult for rescue help to reach the area, so workers are having to dig out rubble with their bare hands. One woman was lifted from a collapsed building over 10 hours after the quake. More victims–dead or alive–are expected to be found before it’s all through.

Dozens dead in Italian earthquake [CNN]