Italy earthquake kills at least 159
At least 159 people have been killed and 368 injured in a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck central Italy early Wednesday, civil protection officials say.
Earlier, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi warned the toll could rise as he visited the area.
As well as the 86 dead in the two towns of Amatrice and Accumoli, 34 people are known to have been killed in Le Marche province, including in the neighbouring villages of Arquata del Tronto and Pescara del Tronto.
Many people are still believed to be buried under rubble.
Rescue teams are using heavy lifting equipment and their bare hands and authorities said the search for survivors would continue through the night.
The area is mountainous and access is difficult. Tent camps are being set up for those who need shelter, while others will be accommodated in buildings such as gymnasiums.
The reason why so many buildings fall down in earthquakes is that many were put up without planning consent and the structural guarantees that normally accompany it.
Hundreds of people were to spend a chilly night in hastily-assembled tents with the risk of aftershocks making it far too risky for them to return home.
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