27 November

Rescue operations continue in Albania, where a powerful earthquake has killed at least 23 people.

The magnitude 6.4 quake struck early on Tuesday morning about 30 kilometers west of the capital, Tirana.

Defense and health officials say the 23 victims include those buried under collapsed buildings. They say 650 people were injured.

Firefighters and military personnel are searching for people thought to be trapped beneath the rubble.

Italy, Greece and other neighboring countries have reportedly dispatched rescue teams.

Albania was hit by a series of quakes measuring above magnitude 5 in September. Local media say the latest tremor was the strongest in 40 years.

-NHK