Naples hit by 4.4-magnitude earthquake causing injuries

In Italy, on March 13, 2025, the city of Naples experienced a 4.4-magnitude earthquake that resulted in minor damage and injuries to residents. The quake struck early in the morning, shaking awake many who sought safety in the streets. Reports indicated that 11 people were sent to the hospital, with one woman suffering injuries from a ceiling collapse and others receiving treatment for cuts caused by broken glass. Authorities reported that some buildings, including a church and a multi-story residential building, were deemed unsafe and closed for inspections. The earthquake was noted for being the strongest recorded in the area surrounding the Phlegrean Fields in 40 years, an area known for its seismic and volcanic activity. This particular quake was similar in magnitude to another that occurred in the area the previous May, which has heightened concerns among residents and prompted preparations by local officials. Mayor Gaetano Manfredi emphasized the importance of monitoring damaged structures to ensure public safety and announced readiness drills conducted last summer in response to increased seismic activity. Seismologists have recorded fresh increases in tectonic activity in recent months, underscoring the potential for more significant seismic events. The Phlegrean Fields area, home to around 500,000 residents, has seen its surface rise significantly since 2006, heightening worries about possible eruptions or stronger tremors. Given the historical context of the region—where past occurrences required evacuations of large populations—officials urged residents to remain vigilant. Local authorities are also calling for government action to ensure that buildings can withstand stronger earthquakes in the future. The recent quake in Naples is part of a broader pattern of seismic unrest across Southern Europe, following noteworthy tremors felt in Lisbon last August and other holiday destinations. Experts caution that the threat of earthquakes and volcanic activity remains significant in these regions, highlighting the need for ongoing public education and preparedness initiatives. The national institute for geophysics and volcanology in Italy advocates for infrastructure improvements to ensure resilience against future geological events, especially considering that the risk level is particularly high in tourist and populated areas.