December 18, 1920 Earthquake: Elbasan, Peqin, Albania, North Macedonia

On December 18 (also reported as November 26), 1920, in the Adriatic Sea, Albania, a strong earthquake destroyed Elbasan and Pekini. Two thirds of Elbasan tumbIed down, and villages along the River Shkumbin from Adalit to Pekini collapsed almost completely. About 10,000 inhabitants were left homeless. A huge tsunami wave originated in the Bay of Vlore and flooded the Island of Sazanit; almost the entire population drowned (i = 5). Considerable damage was done along the shore. The wave was observed in much of the Adriatic Sea. (reference #2130)

Dec 18, 1920, 02:01:57 UTC, 40.5 N, 19.5 E, magnitude 5.6, intensity IX, tsunami intensity 5. A long period of strong seismic activity involve the area of Valona (Albania). On December 18th a strong shock was particularly violent at Elbasan, where most of buildings ruined. Many victims. The shock was largely felt, with a radious of about 1700 km. A big tsunami wave in the Gulf of Valona inundated Saseno island and large part of the population drowned. Severe damage along the coast. The Adriatic sea was perturbated. Tsunami intensity IV according to Antonopoulos. (reference #4139)

December 18, 1920, 02:02 UTC, earthquake intensity X at Elbasan. The seismic waves of the sea in bay of Vlore have flood almost completely the island of Sazan and dwellings. (reference #1109)

December 18, 1920, 02:01:04 UTC, 40.5 N, 19.5 E, magnitude 5.6, intensity IX. (reference #1004)

December 18, 1920, 02:01:36.29 UTC, 41.197 N, 19.7 E, magnitude 5.96 Mw (reference #10476, v.11)