The Campi Flegrei volcanic area, known for its seismic vulnerability, has recently faced a significant threat as a 4.4 magnitude earthquake shook the region on March 13, 2025. This seismic event, the strongest in the last forty years, has led to sweeping evacuations and a pressing government response.
Following the earthquake, 340 residents were displaced from their homes, with 142 families forced to evacuate the municipalities of Naples, Pozzuoli, and Bacoli. According to reports, over 1000 interventions have been carried out by the Fire Brigade, with 330 more requests pending. The Civil Protection and the Prefecture of Naples are consistently updating the data on this emergency situation.
The seismic threat is compounded by the number of buildings at risk. Approximately 2000 structures in the region are deemed highly vulnerable to collapse, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. The President of the Campania Region, Vincenzo De Luca, commented on the government's proactive measures during this crisis. "At Campi Flegrei we are replacing the Municipalities. We have created a reception area in Bagnoli, but the management of the displaced is a municipal responsibility," he stated, stressing the importance of institutional coordination to streamline disaster response.
Meanwhile, the Italian government has crafted a plan in response to this seismic crisis. Nello Musumeci, the Minister for Civil Protection, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the community from future disasters. “We have identified approximately 2000 buildings at high seismic risk. A targeted intervention by the State is planned for this area to reduce exposure to seismic risk,” Musumeci announced, outlining an allocated budget of 100 million euros to be distributed until 2029 for safety enhancements in schools, residential areas, and public infrastructures.
Despite these efforts, some previous measures, such as the “Sisma Bonus” designed to encourage seismic retrofitting, have fallen short of expectations. Musumeci admitted, “The bonus was used mainly for thermal insulation, not for seismic safety. We need to change our approach.” This indicates a strategic pivot in how Italy prepares for potential geological threats, seeking more effective methods to protect its citizens.
Increased scrutiny of illegal constructions in the Campi Flegrei area has also been noted, with the Naples Prosecutor's Office ramping up demolitions. Nicola Gratteri, Naples Prosecutor, pointed out that demolitions have tripled in the last year. “The seismic risk is aggravated by the presence of non-compliant buildings. A drastic intervention is necessary to guarantee the safety of the population,” he urged, echoing the critical need for building compliance in risk-prone locations.
Compounding the region's troubles, another earthquake measuring 4.2 struck the province of Potenza on March 18, 2025, just days later. Recorded at 10:01 AM, the epicenter was located six kilometers from Vaglio Basilicata, confirming fears among residents who took to the streets for safety. The depth of the quake, measured at 14.3 kilometers, mitigated its immediate effect, yet authorities remain on high alert.
Following this incident, the Mayor of Potenza, Vincenzo Telesca, suspended all school activities in the area as a precaution. Rail traffic between Tito and Potenza was also disrupted to allow safety checks on infrastructure. Lucia Margheriti, a seismologist at INGV, explained the event's low impact, saying, “Given the depth of 14 km, the seismic waves were attenuated before reaching the surface. This limited the damage, although the area is considered to be at high seismic risk.” Fortunately, no major damages or injuries were reported at this time, but vigilance is paramount as the region remains susceptible to further seismic activity.
Italy, characterized by its geological instability, particularly in regions like Campi Flegrei and the Southern Apennines, must continuously enhance its prevention strategies to effectively combat seismic risks. Experts urge a comprehensive approach, which emphasizes better building practices, community awareness, and ongoing government support for seismic retrofitting. As the nation looks to the future, it remains essential to tackle these vulnerabilities with urgency and resolution.
