Strong tremors in Italy, schools closed in Catania, over 600 reports of damage

2026-03-04 18:16:49 / BOTA ALFA PRESS

Strong tremors in Italy, schools closed in Catania, over 600 reports of damage

A strong earthquake was felt in the areas of Catania, Messina and Syracuse in Italy at around 7:05 am this morning.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) estimated the earthquake to have a magnitude of 4.5 and an epicenter on Mount Etna, in an area northwest of Ragalna, at a depth of approximately 3.8 kilometers.

According to Ragalna mayor Nino Caruso, there are around 600 reports of "considerable and visible damage to private homes."

While schools in Catania will remain closed as a precaution, Mayor Enrico Trantino explained that classes were suspended today as a precaution to allow for inspections of school buildings.

A similar initiative has been adopted in several municipalities in the province.

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