World Trade Center Lit Up to Honor Victims of Italian Earthquake

FINANCIAL DISTRICT, NY — One World Trade Center will glow in green, white and red Thursday night in honor of the victims of this week's deadly earthquake in Italy.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whose grandfather was born in Italy, announced the news on Thursday afternoon.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my condolences to the men, women and children who lost their lives from the earthquake that devastated Italy," Cuomo said in a statement. "The people of Italy have shown courage and resilience throughout this natural disaster, and New Yorkers continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers. While the true extent of the damage is still to be determined, we are closely monitoring the situation. New York stands ready to lend our support in the weeks and months to come — just as Italy did for New Yorkers in our time of need."

Cuomo called Italy and New York "a family," and referred to the 2.7 million Italian Americans in New York state. There were about 700,000 Italian Americans in New York City as of the 2000 census.

The death toll has reached 250 in Italy after it was struck by a 6.2-magnitude earthquake on Aug. 23.

Cuomo's grandfather, Andrea, was born and raised in Campania, Italy, a few hours southwest of the area hid hardest by the earthquake.

Photo Credit: Patch