Thousands of Spanish flee after nine quake deaths

THOUSANDS of Spaniards have fled the town of Lorca after two earthquakes killed nine people and caused extensive damage.

Lorca has a population of about 90,000 but was transformed into a ghost town, with a steady stream of cars carrying residents fearful of aftershocks to nearby cities and towns to stay with relatives.

Stores, restaurants, and schools were closed as the sirens of police vehicles and ambulances filled the air and helicopters hovered overhead.