Earthquake near Naples injures 21, causes damage

An earthquake with a magnitude of 4.7 struck the area around Naples, southern Italy, causing injuries and damage, particularly in the coastal town of Pozzuoli. The tremor, the strongest in the region in approximately 40 years, was followed by numerous aftershocks throughout the night and into the morning, including one measuring 3.8 magnitude.

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21 people were injured in the region.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported the epicenter was located in the Phlegraean Fields, a highly volcanically active area. The quakes were felt strongly in towns surrounding the Phlegraean Fields, as well as in Naples itself and on the islands of Ischia and Procida. Many residents fled their homes in fear, spending the night outdoors, and some areas experienced power outages.

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Walls and facade sections collapsed, also tuff rock slopes gave way under the stresses.

Authorities reported that 21 people were injured in the region. In Pozzuoli, walls and facade sections collapsed, and tuff rock slopes gave way under the strain. Debris damaged cars, and buildings sustained structural damage. A crisis center was established by the authorities on Friday evening.

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The Phlegraean Fields are a region with high volcanic activity.

The Phlegraean Fields are known for their intense volcanic activity and have been experiencing frequent seismic events, though usually of lesser intensity. This region is home to Europe's largest active supervolcano. The Italian government had previously developed contingency plans for the potential evacuation of hundreds of thousands of residents due to ongoing seismic unrest.

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Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is monitoring the current developments in the area according to her office.