L'Aquila 2009 Earthquake

Question 1

Overview

Answer 1

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck L’Aquila in central Italy, killing 309 people. The main shock happened in the early morning hours at 3.32 am when most people were sleeping, extensively damaging the 13th-century city

Question 2

Primary effects

Answer 2

The earthquake caused damage to between 3,000 and 11,000 buildings in the medieval city of L’Aquila. Many buildings also collapsed. Approximately 1,500 people were injured.

40,000 people who were made homeless by the earthquake found accommodation in tented camps. 10,000 were housed in hotels on the coast.

Question 3

Secondary effects

Answer 3

The secondary effects included aftershocks triggering landslides and rockfalls, causing damage to housing and transport. A landslide and mudflow were caused by a burst main water supply pipeline near the town of Paganio.

Question 4

Immediate responses

Answer 4

For those made homeless, hotels provided shelter for 10,000 people, and 40,000 tents were distributed. Some train carriages were used as shelters.

The Italian Red Cross was searching for survivors supported by seven dog units, 36 ambulances, and a temporary hospital within an hour. The Red Cross distributed water, hot meals, tents and blankets. The British Red Cross raised £ 171,000 in support.

Question 5

Long term responses

Answer 5

Residents did not have to pay taxes during 2010. Students were given free public transport discounts on educational equipment and were exempt from university fees for three years.

Homes took several years to rebuild, and historical centres are expected to take approximately 15 years to rebuild.