ZAGREB, Croatia (AP) – A moderate earthquake struck central Croatia, near the capital Zagreb, on Monday morning, causing panic and damaging some buildings in cities south of the city. There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Croatian seismologists said the magnitude of the earthquake that occurred around 6:30 am (0530 GMT) was 5.0, with the epicenter near the cities of Petrinja and Sisak 50 kilometers (30 miles) south of the capital. Several minor tremors were felt after the initial.
Petrinja Mayor Darinko Dumbovic told state television HRT that “we have bricks and tiles on the streets and fallen chimneys”.
The earthquake was also felt in neighboring Bosnia. In the Croatian capital, she woke up residents and made them flee to the streets. Security cameras showed parked cars shaking for several seconds, setting off their alarms.
Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic promised state aid to repair the damage while visiting the regions affected by the earthquake on Monday.
“This year is ending the way it started,” said Plenkovic, referring to a previous earthquake in Croatia that came on top of the coronavirus outbreak that is challenging the EU member country.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU is following the situation closely on Monday and is ready to help.
“Stay strong, Croatia!”, She said on Twitter.
Earlier this year, the Zagreb area was hit by a strong earthquake on March 22, causing substantial damage. One person died and at least 27 were injured.