Naples Hit by Severe Earthquake, Residents Forced to Sleep on Streets

Naples experienced one of its worst earthquakes in 40 years, with a 4.4 magnitude tremor occurring around 1:25 AM on Thursday, The Independent reported. A loud roar preceded the quake, prompting residents to flee to the streets. The earthquake lasted about 20 seconds, followed by two hours of aftershocks.

The epicenter was located approximately 2.5 km beneath Pozzuoli, west of Naples. Firefighters worked to rescue trapped residents, including an injured woman from a collapsed building. Streets were littered with rubble, and videos showed significant damage to vehicles and homes.

City authorities closed schools in Bagnoli and set up shelters for residents. Italy’s prime minister is monitoring the situation, while specialists indicate that a major volcanic eruption is unlikely despite the area’s seismic activity.