A magnitude 3.6 earthquake struck near Spoleto, Italy, late Wednesday night, April 23, 2025, sending tremors through the surrounding region. According to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), the quake was recorded at 23:31 local time, with its epicenter located approximately five kilometers north of Spoleto at a depth of seven kilometers.
Residents across Spoleto and neighboring towns reported feeling the earthquake distinctly. In fact, the seismic event was felt not only in Spoleto but also in Perugia and other areas throughout Umbria. Many described experiencing vibrations and dull noises, particularly on the upper floors of buildings.
A second, lighter quake followed just three minutes later, registering a magnitude of 1.7 at 23:34, with an epicenter near Madonna di Lugo and San Giacomo. This aftershock, while much milder, was part of the same seismic activity that had startled the region just moments earlier.
The fire brigade took to social media shortly after the initial quake, reporting at 23:50 that no damage had been reported to their operations center. "No damage reports have been received so far," they stated, reassuring the public in the wake of the tremors.
Stefania Proietti, the president of the Umbria Region, also addressed the situation through her Instagram account, confirming the absence of damage reports. She noted that civil protection and local institutions had been activated and were in continuous contact to monitor the situation. "The tremors were felt distinctly, but currently, there are no reports of damage. The civil protection and regional and municipal institutions have activated their protocols and remain in contact," Proietti wrote.
Despite the initial scare, experts indicated that the quake's magnitude was not unusual for the region, which has a history of seismic activity. Italy is known for its geological volatility due to its position on the boundary between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. The last significant earthquake in the area occurred several years ago, reminding residents of the region's potential for seismic events.
In the aftermath of the quake, local authorities began conducting checks to ensure the safety of buildings and infrastructure. The Civil Protection Department and fire services were deployed to assess any potential risks and to reassure the public. As of now, they have reported no injuries or significant damage.
The earthquake has sparked discussions on social media, with many residents sharing their experiences and concerns. The rapid dissemination of information through platforms like X (formerly Twitter) has allowed for real-time updates and reassurances from officials. The community's response highlights the importance of preparedness and communication during such events.
In addition to the immediate local impact, the earthquake in Spoleto has drawn attention from across the country. News outlets have reported on the event, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preparedness in earthquake-prone areas, especially in light of Italy’s seismic history.
As the situation continues to develop, officials are urging residents to remain calm and to follow safety protocols. They encourage individuals to be aware of their surroundings and to have emergency plans in place, should further seismic activity occur.
The people of Spoleto and surrounding areas are now left to process the experience of the earthquake, with many reflecting on the importance of community support and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
