Four people have died and dozens injured in a 6.0 magnitude earthquake in Northern Italy, according to reports.

The earthquake struck at 4am local time, 22 miles north of the city of Bologna. It had a magnitude of 5.9 and struck at a relatively shallow depth of 6.3 miles (10km), according to the US Geological Survey.

Rescue teams are now combing the area amid reports that a number of people may be buried under rubble.

It was felt across northern Italy, from Bologna, Ferrara, Verona and Mantua.

About 50 people were injured and historical buildings and rural structures were brought to the ground.

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