Earthquake shakes central Albania, sparks panic

TIRANA, April 16 – An earthquake Monday sparked a great panic after still undiscovered news that stronger shocks could be dangerous. First there was an earthquake measuring a preliminary magnitude of 4 shaking central Albania, according to the Seismological Institute. The quake occurred at 9:38 a.m. (0738GMT) Monday in Bene village, Elbasan district, south of the capital, Tirana, according to the institute. There was reported minor damage of some buildings and homes from the quake, which was followed by 16 aftershocks. It was felt in Elbasan, Tirana and Librazhd.
There were reports that the Education Ministry called all schools to evacuate students and personnel fearing a stronger shake in midday. The ministry denied alter it had made the appeal. All schools and public offices were evacuated because of fears of a possible stronger quake. Hundreds of citizens in Tirana were seen sitting down along the Lana river banks. Institute also said they had not made any warnings and didn’t know who spread that panic, insisting that the intensity of the shocks had fallen drastically.”
An earthquake of magnitudes between 2.5 and 3 is the smallest generally felt by people. A quake of magnitude 4 to 5 can cause moderate damage in populated areas.