Naples Hit by Severe Earthquake: Residents Evacuated and Emergency Services Activated
Naples faced a 4.4 magnitude earthquake, the worst in 40 years, leading to resident evacuations and emergency rescues. The tremors, lasting about 20 seconds, were centered near Pozzuoli. Concerns over structural damage and seismic risks remain, but experts suggest that a major eruption is unlikely.
Naples recently experienced one of its most severe earthquakes in four decades, with a magnitude of 4.4. At around 1:25 a.m., residents fled their homes after a loud roar preceded the tremors, forcing many to sleep on the streets. The quake, lasting approximately 20 seconds, was centered about 2.5 kilometers beneath Pozzuoli, west of Naples.
Following the initial tremor, a series of aftershocks continued for two hours, affecting a large area. Firefighters promptly responded to distress calls, rescuing individuals trapped in collapsed buildings. Reports indicated that an injured woman was saved from the rubble in Pozzuoli and several others escaped their homes via windows.
The recent quake is the joint strongest recorded in the region, matching a similar 4.4-magnitude quake from May. Both incidents were located in the Phlegraean Fields, home to Europe’s largest active volcanic caldera. Nearly 500,000 residents live within this hazardous zone, including parts of the Mount Vesuvius danger area.
Social media showcased significant destruction, with cars covered in debris and structural damage evident on homes. In response, city officials closed schools in Bagnoli and established emergency shelters. Firefighters continued assessments across Bacoli, Bagnoli, and Pozzuoli to ensure resident safety.
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, is closely monitoring the situation, maintaining ongoing communication with local authorities. The last major eruption in the Phlegraean Fields took place approximately 40,000 years ago, noted as the largest in the Mediterranean. While past seismic activity has triggered mass evacuations, experts currently deem a major eruption to be unlikely.
Naples was struck by a powerful 4.4 magnitude earthquake, its worst in 40 years, prompting residents to evacuate their homes for safety. Emergency services responded swiftly, rescuing trapped individuals and assessing damage in the affected areas. The quake highlights ongoing seismic risks for the region, particularly given its proximity to a large volcanic caldera, yet experts believe a major eruption is not imminent.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
