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Naples Hit by Strongest Earthquake in 40 Years, Causing Damage and Panic

The 4.4-magnitude quake struck near Pozzuoli early Thursday, damaging buildings and forcing residents into the streets, though no fatalities were reported.

Debris on a car following an earthquake on Thursday.
Image
A damaged car is seen in the street after an overnight earthquake jolted Naples, Italy March 13, 2025. The quake struck at 01:25 local time (00:25 GMT), registering a magnitude of 4.4 according to Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). REUTERS/Ciro De Luca

Overview

  • The earthquake, centered near Pozzuoli in the Campi Flegrei volcanic basin, struck at 1:25 a.m. local time and lasted about 20 seconds.
  • The tremor caused structural damage, including cracks in buildings, collapsed ceilings, and debris in the streets, with three buildings declared unsafe.
  • Rescue efforts included freeing trapped residents, with one woman hospitalized after a ceiling collapsed and others treated for minor injuries.
  • The quake was followed by several aftershocks, prompting many residents to spend the night outdoors or in cars, fearing further tremors.
  • Authorities closed schools in affected areas to assess structural safety, while experts stated no evidence suggests an imminent volcanic eruption.