2009 Italy Earthquake
L'Aquila, Abruzzo, Italy — April 6, 2009
The 2009 L'Aquila earthquake killed 309 people and left 65,000 homeless. It became internationally known for the subsequent trial of six scientists and a government official charged with manslaughter for allegedly providing false reassurances before the event. The case sparked worldwide debate about scientific communication and liability.
Earthquake Facts
Magnitude
M6.3
Date
Apr 6, 2009
Depth
8.3 km
Deaths
309
Latitude
42.334°
Longitude
13.334°
Tsunami
No
Region
Italy
Tectonic Cause
Normal fault earthquake in the central Apennines, where crustal extension creates a series of active normal faults. L'Aquila sits in an ancient lake basin with soft sediments that amplified ground shaking.
Sources & Further Reading
Track Earthquakes in Real Time
Earthquake Globe sends push notifications when earthquakes occur near any location you choose, before you see it on the news.
iOS 16+ · iPhone & iPad · No subscription required