Naples was hit by a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, causing minor injuries and damage. Residents evacuated to the streets, as some structures were deemed unsafe, leading to school closures. Increased seismic activity in the area has officials on alert, with calls for improved building safety standards.
Naples, Italy, experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake early Thursday, resulting in minor damage and sending 11 individuals to the hospital. The quake, which caused a portion of a ceiling to collapse and left some residents with contusions, is notable as the strongest recorded in the Phlegrean Fields area. This geological region, characterized by ancient volcanoes, had already been on alert following a similar tremor last May.
The epicenter of the quake was located just offshore from Pozzuoli, a coastal suburb of Naples. In response, Mayor Gaetano Manfredi declared certain structures, including a church and a seven-story residential building, unsafe, prompting the closure of several schools as a precautionary measure. Building inspections are currently underway to assess damage and ensure safety.
The earthquake in Naples underscores the ongoing seismic risks in the region, particularly within the Phlegrean Fields. With a significant increase in seismic activity observed, authorities are emphasizing the need for preparedness and structural resilience against stronger quakes and potential volcanic eruptions. The safety of the approximately 500,000 residents in this hazardous area remains a priority, as measures are being taken to evaluate and fortify vulnerable structures.
Original Source: www.pennlive.com
