Italy urges evacuation of unstable zone after latest earthquake

A 6.6-magnitude earthquake in Italy’s central mountainous region complicated aid efforts in an area already devastated by quakes in August. Sunday morning’s temblor was the strongest in Italy in 36 years, but it caused minimal damage because many people have already vacated damaged homes and businesses in the area. A new conflict is developing between the government and those who remain behind. Authorities want residents to move out of tent cities and makeshift housing in the area before winter, but many don’t want to leave their hometowns, businesses, and livestock. The mayor of the town of Preci said nearly 400 people would rather brave the coming cold in tents than relocate to government-provided housing in other parts of the country.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.