YEREVAN, AUGUST 25, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian Embassy in Italy set a hotline for Armenian citizens affected by the earthquake in Italy and need assistance, the Armenian MFA writes on Facebook, “Armenpress” reports.

The Armenian citizens can call at +390687788654.

Earlier it was reported the MFA clarifies whether or not Armenians were among the victims of the earthquake in Italy.

The Armenian Embassy is in constant contact with the local authorities.

BBC reported the death toll in the Italian earthquake has risen to at least 247 as thousands of rescuers continue efforts to find survivors.

Dozens are believed trapped in ruined Amatrice, Accumoli and Pescara del Tronto, in mountainous central Italy.

The search went on through the night, and there was a strong aftershock which rocked already damaged buildings.

More than 4,300 rescuers are using heavy lifting equipment and their bare hands.

Many of the victims were children, the health minister said, and there were warnings the toll could rise further.

The 6.2-magnitude quake hit at 03:36 (01:36 GMT) on Wednesday 100km (65 miles) north-east of Rome.

The quake struck small towns and villages in the mountainous area where the regions of Umbria, Lazio and Le Marche meet.