An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.8 struck the west of Albania on Saturday, September 21, but caused only minor injuries, the country's government said.

Citing the country's Institute of GeoSciences, Energy, Water and Environment, Albania's defence ministry said the quake struck 13 kilometres (8 miles) north of the port city of Durres, at Cape of Rodon, at 2:04 p.m. local time (1204 GMT).

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Residents ran out of their homes

The government's report revealed that the tremor was mainly felt along Albania's west coast. An aftershock with a preliminary magnitude of 5.3 sent all residents running out of homes and apartments. Witnesses in Durres and the capital of Tirana reported damaged homes and apartments and power being temporarily cut.

"We got so scared, it was so powerful, we've never felt anything like it before," said witness Selma Rexhepi.  

The Albanian Health Minister said early reports indicated at least 68 people were injured, none seriously. All were treated at hospitals in Durres as well as in the capital Tirana. 108 homes around the country suffered damage and one collapsed, according to the country's defence minister.  

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Townhalls open shelters for those who are unable to go inside their homes

Town halls have opened shelters for people who are unable to go inside their homes. Prime Minister Edi Rama cancelled a trip to the United Nations annual meeting and returned to Albania to evaluate the damage. Located along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Albania is earthquake-prone and registers seismic activity every few days.

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