Earthquake rattles northern Italy

MILAN, Italy, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- A moderate earthquake measuring 5.2 on the Richter scale rattled northern Italy early Thursday, causing minor injuries, the BBC reported.

The epicenter was beneath Lake Garda, which is 58 miles east of Milan, and its effects were felt from Genoa in the west to Venice in the east.

The quake lasted about 10 seconds, long enough to send scores of people rushing from their homes into the streets.

Several hospitals in the region were evacuated as a precaution while structural safety was checked and there were widespread reports of cracked buildings and fallen masonry.

Authorities broadcast warnings advising residents to expect aftershocks.