Earthquake in Campi Flegrei, magnitude 4.4 tremor. Schools closed
Much fear but no major damage reported so far
A strong earthquake tremor was distinctly felt in Naples shortly after dawn, at 5.51 a.m., and in the neighbouring municipalities of the Phlegrean and western area. Many people in their homes woke up with a start. There was a lot of fear but no major damage was reported so far.
The quake, which had its epicentre in the Phlegraean Fields, was among the highest since the bradyseism re-exploded in that area and was distinctly felt in Campania's capital city as well. The earthquake was registered at a depth of 3 km. In terms of intensity and duration, the quake was reminiscent of that of 30 June a year ago, the most violent in the last 40 years: at that time the recorded magnitude was 4.6.
The social networks were stormed, with many testimonies from those who were woken up by a start, amidst swaying chandeliers and creaking. Checks are underway, although there are no reports of major damage at the moment.
The Naples municipal administration, in agreement with the Civil Protection and the competent authorities, has issued a precautionary closure order for today, 21 May, for the schools located within the 'red zone' of the Bagnoli-Fuorigrotta district.
"It was strong. We have just felt a strong tremor in our area. I have ordered the closure of all public and public schools in Bacoli. And, at the same time, the inspection of all school facilities. We are on the road to check for any damage'. This is what the mayor of Bacoli - a municipality in the Phlegrean area - Josi Della Ragione, let it be known through his social profiles. "I have convened the Municipal Operations Centre," he continues, "and we will be at the service of the population right away. I am in contact with the Prefecture of Naples, the Civil Protection of the Campania Region and the Vesuvius Observatory to monitor what is happening. I am absolutely aware of the concerns,' the first citizen concluded, 'that everyone has experienced in these minutes, but I invite the community to remain calm. We are there'.
