Naples faced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, resulting in minor injuries and the hospitalization of 11 individuals. The tremor, the strongest in the Phlegrean Fields’ history, led officials to declare some structures unsafe and prompted safety measures amid increasing seismic activity.
The city of Naples, Italy, experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake early Thursday, resulting in minor damage and sending 11 individuals to the hospital, according to officials. The quake, considered the strongest historically around the Phlegrean Fields, coincided with heightened alertness following a similar tremor in May. Residents were abruptly awakened and rushed to the streets for safety, reminiscent of their reactions in the previous incident.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located just offshore from Pozzuoli, a coastal suburb of Naples. In the aftermath, Mayor Gaetano Manfredi reported that several structures, including a church and a seven-story residential building, were deemed unsafe and off-limits, leading to temporary school closures. Building inspectors were dispatched to assess potential damage further.
Among the hospitalized, one woman suffered injuries when a ceiling partially collapsed, while others dealt with cuts sustained from shattered glass. Recent weeks have seen a rise in seismic activity in the Phlegrean Fields, prompting authorities to conduct emergency drills last summer.
This region is known for its significant seismic and volcanic activity. Notably, the ground has risen by 1.3 meters since 2006, surpassing levels before the last major event in 1984. Despite ongoing monitoring, predicting an eruption or stronger quake remains elusive. Approximately 500,000 individuals reside in areas most vulnerable to volcanic eruptions, and Italy’s national institute for geophysics and vulcanology has urged the development of a robust governmental plan to ensure buildings can endure quakes of at least magnitude 5.0.
In summary, Naples was struck by a 4.4-magnitude earthquake that injured several residents and caused some buildings to be declared unsafe. Authorities are taking precautions and enhancing safety measures, given the increased seismic activity in the Phlegrean Fields. The situation highlights the need for preparedness in a region with a significant population at risk.
Original Source: www.pennlive.com
