Earthquake rocks Zagreb

CROATIA: A strong earthquake shook Croatia and its capital on Sunday, causing widespread damage and panic.

A 15-year-old was reported to be in a critical condition and others were injured.

The European seismological agency, EMSC, said the earthquake measured 5.3 and struck a wide area north of the capital, Zagreb, at 6:23am (local time) on Sunday. The epicenter was 7km north of Zagreb at a depth of 10km.

Many buildings in Zagreb cracked and walls and rooftops were damaged. Downtown streets were littered with debris. Concrete slabs fell on cars and chimneys landed in front of entrances.

Zagreb’s iconic cathedral was also damaged with the top of one of its two spires collapsing. The cathedral was rebuilt after it toppled in the 1880 earthquake.

Power was cut as people ran out of their homes. Several fires were also reported. At least two other tremors were recorded later.

Officials first said a 15-yearold girl was killed, but doctors later said that she was in a critical condition and that they are fighting for her life. They gave no immediate details on the extent of other injuries.

Residents shared photos of belongings falling off shelves, broken bottles and glass inside homes.

The earthquake struck amid a partial lockdown of the capital because of the spread of the coronavirus. People were told to avoid public areas, such as parks and public squares, but had no choice as they ran out of their apartments. Up to five people keeping distance are allowed to be together.

Interior Minister Davor Bozinovic said the situation was complicated by the restrictive virus-related measures in place.

“There are rules for when there is an earthquake, but when there is an earthquake at the same time when there is a global pandemic, then it’s a much more complex situation.” Mr Bozinovic said.