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Eight people have been found alive in Italy's Rigopiano hotel, two days after it was buried in an avalanche, BBC reports.

Rescuers said the survivors had been discovered buried under snow. The survivors reportedly took refuge beneath a collapsed portion of ceiling, where they were able to light a fire to keep warm.

Italian media outlets said the group was made up of three men, three women, and two children.

At least four people have been confirmed dead, and about 20 are still missing, as the rescue effort continues in difficult conditions.

Notably the avalanche which has crushed Italy's Rigopiano hotel is believed to have been caused by a series of strong earthquakes in the region on Wednesday. At the time of the incident there were 30 guests in the hotel.