Albania’s Biggest Earthquake in 40 Years!

Shortly before 4:00 am this morning (November 26th), most people in Kotor, Montenegro where we are were woken up by an earthquake that lasted about five seconds. I later found out that the epicenter was in Durres, a port city in Albania. It was a 6.4-magnitude quake that lasted more than 30 seconds; the strongest to hit Albania in 40 years.

Durres earthquake casualties

On September 21, there was a 5.6-magnitude quake in the same area. Luckily, it did not claim any lives although there were many injured. This morning’s quake has claimed 23 lives so far, left hundreds injured, and leveled many buildings leaving many homeless.

Butrint National Park from the Greek and Roman times. Albania

View from our apartment in Tirana, Albania

Love and sorrow for Albania

The damage caused is absolutely devastating. I don’t have the words to express our sorrow. I also don’t have the words to express our love for Albania and her wonderful people. I will do my best to tell you soon about the wonderful Albanians we have met. For now, enjoy a few photos that inadequately capture her external beauty, and hope that Mother Nature doesn’t do any more damage to it.

Looking for ways to help

Many have set up GoFundMe campaigns to help the victims. While I cannot personally vouch for each of them, I encourage you to check them out and decide if you want to support them. Kenric and I will be discussing with an Albanian friend to see how we can help, and will let you know our progress.

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