Naples Endures Devastating Earthquake, Residents Forced into Streets

Naples experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, one of the worst in 40 years, causing widespread panic and residents to flee to the streets. The quake struck near Pozzuoli around 1:25 AM, resulting in prolonged tremors that lasted for two hours. Emergency responders have been active in rescue operations, while authorities have closed schools and ensured the safety of the residents.

Naples has experienced one of the most significant earthquakes in the region within the last 40 years, registering a magnitude of 4.4. The earthquake struck shortly after 1:25 AM, accompanied by a loud roar, prompting residents to evacuate to the streets. The tremors lasted approximately 20 seconds, followed by additional seismic activity over a two-hour period.

The earthquake’s epicenter was located about 2.5 kilometers beneath Pozzuoli, a coastal city situated west of Naples, as reported by the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). Emergency responders, including firefighters, undertook extensive rescue missions, successfully extracting individuals trapped under collapsed structures, notably rescuing an injured woman in Pozzuoli.

Photos and videos circulating on social media depict a scene of devastation, with vehicles covered in debris and buildings displaying significant structural damage. In response, authorities closed schools in the Bagnoli district and designated safe areas for residents seeking shelter.

This earthquake follows another tremor of similar magnitude recorded in May, marking it as one of the strongest seismic events in decades within the area. The Phlegraean Fields, which encompasses Pozzuoli, sits above Europe’s largest active volcanic caldera and houses around 500,000 residents within the Mount Vesuvius danger zone.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is actively overseeing the situation and communicating with local authorities, while emergency services continue to conduct thorough assessments across affected areas including Bacoli, Bagnoli, and Pozzuoli. Experts have stated that although seismic events were prominent in the 1980s leading to evacuations, a significant volcanic eruption is presently deemed unlikely.

The recent earthquake in Naples represents one of the most severe seismic events in the region in four decades, compelling many residents to evacuate to the streets in fear. With the epicenter in Pozzuoli and subsequent tremors causing structural damage, emergency services have been actively engaged in rescue efforts. Authorities are responding promptly to support affected citizens, as the region remains vigilant to potential future seismic activity.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk