An earthquake in central Italy hit with a magnitude of 6.7 and killed approximately 250 people. The earthquake was caused by the collision of the African and European plates. The subduction of the African plate is responsible for the Alps and the Apennines and the build up stress led to this recent earthquake. This earthquake apparently was predicted to happen because Italy is near a fault which also caused an earthquake in 2009. The damages for this earthquake are estimated to reach one billion U.S. dollars. The are other things at risk such as Italy's historical monuments and the 400 people who received injuries.
This is an important topic to cover because I lived in California which has the San Andreas fault. This fault has not caused an earthquake for more than 100 years which should raise some concern into people. The last time it hit in 1906, it caused an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.9. We are aware of the consequences and we need to keep a watchful eye to prevent a disaster from occurring in California. Being prepared can save hundreds and possibly thousands of lives if something does go wrong.
http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/italian-earthquake-tragedy-hundreds-millions-years-making-n637401
http://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/italian-earthquake-tragedy-hundreds-millions-years-making-n637401