Earthquakes strike Iran, 180 confirmed dead

At least 180 people have been killed and more than 1,300 injured after two powerful earthquakes struck in north-western Iran yesterday.



And officials warn that the death toll may rise, with rescuers searching under the rubble of collapsed buildings for survivors



Iran state television reports that the magnitude 6.4 and 6.3 earthquakes struck just minutes apart near the city of Tabriz.



Officials say at least four villages have been completely destroyed, with another 60 villages suffering damage ranging from 50 to 70 per cent. Reports say most of the casualties were in the outlying villages.



The BBC reports that dozens of rescue workers have been sent to the region, but says the onset of darkness and disconnected phone lines have hampered the relief efforts.