The death toll in the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Central Italy on Wednesday, has risen to at least 241 as thousands of rescuers continue efforts to find survivors.

Some reports claim 247 people have died so far as a result of the disaster.

This was disclosed by Italian authorities on Thursday morning, saying that 190 deaths occurred  in the Rieti province and 57 in the neighbouring Ascoli Piceno province.

Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is chairing an emergency cabinet meeting on Thursday and top of the agenda is reconstruction plans for the devastated area.

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

Rescuers have advised journalists and bystanders to leave Amatrice urgently, as the town is said to be crumbling.

New cracks appeared in the town’s hospital after strong aftershocks.

The search for survivors went on through the night, amid hundreds of tremors and an aftershock which rocked already damaged buildings.

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

Authorities say many of the victims were children,  adding that the death toll could rise further.

Some tremors after the quake were felt as far away as Rome.

“We are sleeping in the car and there were shocks all night. When the biggest one came, the car started moving and shaking,” said Monica, a survivor from Amatrice.

A tented camp has been set up, as so many buildings are now unsafe.