At just after 3:30 am local time on Wednesday morning, a giant magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck central Italy. It was felt throughout the region, including in Rome. The Associated Press is reporting that the epicenter of the quake was a little northeast of Rome, near the province of Rietl.

The town of Amatrice, which is in Rietl, has been devastated. The AP is reporting that the town's mayor Sergio Perozzi has said that many residents are buried and that the town "isn't here anymore."

So far, there are two confirmed casualties. Early estimates as to how many total people may have died are varying wildly.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has put out an initial statement about the quake's possible impact. According to CNN, they anticipate "significant" casualties. "Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are a mix of vulnerable and earthquake resistant construction," the agency said.

Image: Many deaths are suspected in the town of Amatrice. The picture was tweeted by Flavio Maccarone.