Naples Experiences Minor Earthquake, Increasing Concerns Over Safety

Naples experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake early Thursday, causing minor damage and 11 injuries, mostly from a ceiling collapse. The quake, the strongest recorded in the Phlegrean Fields, prompted residents to evacuate, and certain buildings and schools were deemed unsafe. Increased seismic activity in the region has raised concerns about preparedness for future quakes or volcanic eruptions.

The city of Naples in southern Italy experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake early Thursday morning, resulting in minor structural damage and sending 11 individuals to medical facilities, primarily due to injuries from a ceiling collapse. This earthquake was the strongest recorded in the Phlegrean Fields, which includes ancient volcanic sites and is part of the Naples metropolitan area. It mirrors the magnitude of a quake that struck in May and has heightened resident alertness.

In response to the quake, many frightened residents fled to the streets for safety, reminiscent of their actions following the May incident. The earthquake’s epicenter was located offshore near Pozzuoli, a coastal suburb adjacent to Naples. Mayor Gaetano Manfredi confirmed that specific buildings, including a church and a seven-story residential structure, were declared unsafe, leading to the closure of several schools as a preventative measure. Damage inspections are currently underway.

Eleven individuals, including a woman injured from a ceiling collapse, reported to hospitals for treatment. Several others suffered cuts from breaking glass. Seismologists noted an uptick in seismic activity in the Phlegrean Fields in the weeks preceding the quake, prompting authorities to conduct emergency drills in anticipation of potential eruptions.

The Phlegrean Fields are recognized for their high seismic and volcanic activity. Notably, the area’s surface has risen by 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) since 2006, a change greater than before the significant seismic event of 1984. However, experts caution that predicting volcanic eruptions or stronger earthquakes remains uncertain.

With an estimated 500,000 residents residing in the most vulnerable areas, Italy’s National Institute for Geophysics and Volcanology has advocated for a comprehensive governmental strategy to reinforce structures against earthquakes of magnitude 5.0 or greater. In the 1984 crisis, approximately 40,000 people were evacuated as a preventive measure against an anticipated eruption, which ultimately did not transpire.

The 4.4-magnitude earthquake in Naples resulted in minor damages and injuries but heightened the urgency for preparedness in an earthquake and volcanic-risk area. With recent increases in seismic activity around the Phlegrean Fields, officials are alerting to the need for structural safety enhancements and ongoing monitoring as a significant number of residents remain at risk.

Original Source: www.pennlive.com