Naples experienced a major 4.4 magnitude earthquake, marking one of the worst in 40 years. The tremor caused significant panic, prompting residents to evacuate to the streets. Firefighters and rescuers responded promptly, aiding those in distress. The epicenter was located near Pozzuoli, a volcanic area with a history of seismic activity. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, ensuring the safety of the community.
Naples recently experienced one of the most significant earthquakes in the past 40 years, prompting residents to seek refuge on the streets. The incident, which occurred around 1:25 a.m., was preceded by a “huge roar” that alarmed the city’s inhabitants. The tremor registered a magnitude of 4.4 and lasted approximately 20 seconds, with aftershocks persisting for two hours, causing widespread panic.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 2.5 kilometers beneath Pozzuoli, west of Naples, as reported by the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). Firefighters promptly responded to the crisis, rescuing individuals in distress, including an injured woman trapped under rubble following a ceiling collapse. Additionally, in the Bagnoli district, rescuers worked to free individuals who were stranded.
This recent seismic event follows another 4.4-magnitude quake recorded last May, making this earthquake one of the most potent to strike the area in recent history. Both earthquakes originated from the Phlegraean Fields in Pozzuoli, an area situated atop Europe’s largest active volcanic caldera. Approximately 500,000 residents inhabit this volcanic region near Mount Vesuvius.
Social media has been inundated with videos and images depicting cars covered in debris, damaged homes, and the chaotic evacuation of residents into the streets. In response to the earthquake, city officials promptly closed schools in the Bagnoli area and established designated waiting areas for displaced residents while firefighters conducted safety checks across Bacoli, Bagnoli, and Pozzuoli.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated she is actively monitoring the situation and maintains communication with local authorities. It is noteworthy that the Phlegraean Fields eruption that occurred 40,000 years ago holds the distinction of being the most powerful eruption recorded in the Mediterranean. Although seismic activity in the 1980s led to mass evacuations, experts currently believe a major eruption is unlikely to occur soon.
In summary, Naples has recently endured a significant earthquake, leading to chaos and displacement among residents. The city responded swiftly, with emergency services working diligently to rescue individuals and secure safety measures. Understanding the geological context of the region is crucial, especially considering its vulnerability due to past eruptions. As the situation develops, state authorities, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, continue to monitor and address the needs of affected communities.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
