A 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck Naples late Thursday, leading many residents to evacuate their homes and sleep outdoors.
Residents of Naples Seek Shelter Outdoors Following Earthquake
Residents of Naples Seek Shelter Outdoors Following Earthquake
After a powerful earthquake rattles Naples, residents take to the streets and cars for safety.
Many residents in and around Naples, Italy, found themselves on the streets and in their vehicles as they sought safety following a midnight earthquake. Recorded at a magnitude of 4.4, the tremor occurred at 01:25 local time at a shallow depth of three kilometers (two miles), with the US Geological Survey reporting it slightly lower at 4.2 and at a depth of 10 kilometers. The quake disrupted power in several areas of the city.
In the nearby town of Pozzuoli, where the quake’s epicenter was located, rescuers managed to extract one injured occupant from the debris of a house that partially collapsed. Naples, renowned for its proximity to the Phlegraean Fields volcanic region, experiences frequent seismic activity, and the quake was reportedly felt throughout the Campania region.
As concerns over aftershocks grew, residents were seen leaving their homes and gathering outdoors. The aftermath revealed damages, including a car with a shattered windscreen and structural issues in local buildings, prompting the establishment of a rescue coordination center to assess the situation. Reports indicated that schools in Pozzuoli and adjacent neighborhoods would close for the day to evaluate building safety.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of Naples' unique geological vulnerabilities, with the city resting atop a volatile area known for its volcanic activity.
