26 Nov 2019 | 08:25 AM UTC
Albania: Fatalities confirmed following earthquake November 26 /update 2
Authorities confirm at least six fatalities and over 300 injuries following 6.4-magnitude earthquake on November 26; rescue operations ongoing
Event
Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing in Albania following a 6.4-magnitude earthquake during the early morning hours (local time) of Tuesday, November 26. According to initial government reports, at least six people were killed and another 300 injured in the quake. A building collapsed in Thumane, north of Tirana, killing at least two people. Another person died after jumping out of their home in Kurbin. Rescue workers are currently working to evacuate people from buildings, after a building collapsed and killed one person in Durres. Transportation and business disruptions are anticipated around the affected areas.
Multiple aftershocks have been reported in the region as of 09:00 on Tuesday. Further aftershocks are possible in the coming hours and days.
Context
The US Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the earthquake northwest of Shijak, near Tirana, at around 03:54 (local time) at a depth of 10 km (6 mi).
Advice
Individuals in the region are advised to monitor the situation and prepare for potential aftershocks.
In the event of aftershocks, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), move away from the windows, and not attempt to leave a building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from tall buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.
