GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — The Caribbean Community (Caricom) has extended sympathy to the government and people of Italy following a deadly earthquake that shook sections of the country on Wednesday.

“Sincere condolences are extended to those who have lost their families and friends to the ravages of this natural disaster. The Community hopes that the rescue teams are successful in their efforts to save those who have survived and may still be trapped in the rubble,” said Caricom Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque.

The regional body expressed confidence that the “determination and will of the people of Italy will ensure that they overcome this tragedy and rebuild their lives and their communities”.

Meanwhile, hundreds of aftershocks continue to rock devastated areas of central Italy, hampering rescue efforts.

On Thursday, a strong tremor with a magnitude of 4.2 struck, sending rescuers fleeing from already fragile buildings.

At least 250 people are now known to have died after Wednesday’s quake.