Naples Faces Seismic Activity: 4.4 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes City

Naples was hit by a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, resulting in minor damages and 11 injuries. This seismic event, the strongest recorded in the Phlegrean Fields, prompted safety evacuations and building inspections. Authorities are urging a governmental response to improve structural resilience against larger quakes.

On Thursday morning, Naples experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, which caused minor damage and led to 11 individuals being hospitalized, the most serious injury being from a ceiling collapse, as reported by officials. This earthquake represents the strongest seismic activity recorded in the Phlegrean Fields area, a region characterized by ancient volcanoes and encompassing much of the Naples metropolitan area. The quake matched another recent tremor in May that had previously alarmed residents.

Due to the earthquake, shaken residents fled into the streets for safety. The tremor, which dislodged stone and cement from building facades, was centered offshore near Pozzuoli, a suburb of Naples. In response to the damage, Mayor Gaetano Manfredi announced that a church, a seven-story residential building, and another structure had been deemed off-limits, and several schools were closed as a safety measure.

Authorities are conducting inspections on affected buildings to assess potential damage. Mayor Manfredi emphasized the importance of diligent monitoring, stating, “We are following with the greatest attention all of our structures, and are monitoring all events in real time.” Amidst the seismic activity, 11 individuals were treated for injuries, with one woman injured from a ceiling collapse and several others sustaining cut injuries from broken glass.

Seismologists have noted a recent uptick in volcanic and seismic activity in the Phlegrean Fields. Following the increase in tremors, authorities conducted emergency drills last summer in preparation for potential future events. The area is known for its seismic and volcanic risks, with approximately 500,000 residents living in areas with heightened danger should an eruption occur.

Heightened geological activity has seen the ground surface rise 1.3 meters since 2006, surpassing levels noted before the significant events of 1984. Experts caution that predicting eruptions or stronger quakes remains impossible. Italy’s National Institute for Geophysics and Vulcanology has urged the development of governmental strategies to enhance structural resilience against earthquakes of at least magnitude 5.0. Moreover, history reflects that during the seismic events of 1984, 40,000 residents were evacuated as a preventive measure against a potential eruption that ultimately did not take place.

In summary, the recent earthquake in Naples has raised concerns regarding the seismic risks in the Phlegrean Fields area. With minor injuries reported and structural inspections ongoing, authorities remain vigilant. Seismologists continue to monitor increased geological activity, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in a region known for its seismic and volcanic hazards.

Original Source: www.pennlive.com