A 4.4-magnitude earthquake struck Naples, Italy, on March 13, 2023, at 1:25 AM, causing destruction and panic among locals and tourists. The quake, the strongest in 40 years, affected nearby regions and resulted in significant power outages and rescue operations. Schools were closed for safety inspections as local authorities assess the damage.
On March 13, 2023, at 1:25 AM local time, a 4.4-magnitude earthquake struck Naples, Italy, prompting panic among tourists who fled into the streets. Witnesses described a massive roar preceding the quake, which resulted in structural collapses within moments. This earthquake is noted as the strongest to affect Naples in four decades, according to The Mirror.
The epicenter of the quake was identified as Pozzuoli, a coastal district near Naples. Following the initial tremor, several weaker aftershocks were recorded, exacerbating the community’s distress. Many residents spent the night outdoors as damage to homes resulted in some individuals becoming trapped under collapsing structures.
The major seismic event, lasting approximately 20 seconds, caused widespread power outages across Naples. Rescue operations were initiated promptly, with firefighters successfully saving a woman caught under a fallen ceiling in Pozzuoli. In Bagnoli, teams worked diligently to assist others trapped within their homes.
Photographs shared by local news outlets depict individuals climbing out of windows to escape, alongside images of damaged buildings, including a car with a shattered windscreen. Tremors from the earthquake were also felt throughout Campania, the neighboring region. Consequently, a rescue coordination center was established to evaluate the extent of the damage.
In response to safety concerns, schools in Pozzuoli and adjacent districts were temporarily closed to assess building stability. Notably, just days prior to the Naples quake, a similar 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi, India, on February 17, with residents in Delhi experiencing comparable conditions such as the audible roar and associated tremors in nearby areas.
The recent 4.4-magnitude earthquake in Naples represents a significant seismic event, marking the strongest tremor in the region in forty years. The quake has resulted in power outages, structural damage, and ongoing rescue efforts is a crucial focus for local authorities. As precautionary measures, schools in affected areas are closed to ensure safety while assessments are conducted.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
