ROME (Sputnik) – The earthquake struck the mountainous regions of Umbria, Lazio and Marche in the early hours of Wednesday, causing extensive damage and around 650 aftershocks continuing 48 hours later.
Italian media say up to 215 people have been dug up from the rubble alive.
Prime Minister Matteo Renzi declared a state of emergency in the regions following an emergency session late Thursday that allocated $56 billion in aid to the affected areas.
