CATANZARO – The ongoing earthquake swarm affecting the area between Tiriolo, Miglierina, and Marcellinara has caused considerable concern among residents as seismic tremors continue unabated. The strongest recent tremor measured a magnitude of 3.3 and was recorded by the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) at 2:46 PM on March 20, 2025, with its epicenter located just one kilometer from Tiriolo. This event occurred at a shallow depth of only 8 kilometers, which contributed to its perceptibility.
While there have been no reports of physical damage to structures, the persistent tremors have frightened local inhabitants, prompting numerous calls to the fire department from individuals who felt the earthquakes but did not request emergency assistance. Reports indicate that the last two detected epicenters were in Miglierina and again in Tiriolo, highlighting the concentrated seismic activity in this particular region.
The seismic event has been notably felt in nearby Catanzaro, especially in upper levels of buildings and prominently in the Lido district, illustrating the tremors’ reach. The community has experienced an unrelenting series of seismic disturbances, with over 170 tremors detected in the last few days. This morning alone, the strongest tremor before the 3.3 magnitude quake struck at 12:11 PM, with a recorded magnitude of 3.0, leading to the evacuation of local schools as a precautionary measure.
In the hours leading up to the strongest tremor, seismic activity saw multiple low-intensity shocks recorded. Between 10:30 AM and 2:46 PM on March 20, a total of eight tremors occurred, with magnitudes ranging from 2.2 to the aforementioned 3.3. The recorded times and magnitudes of these tremors are as follows:
- 10:33 AM ML 2.2 – Epicenter Tiriolo (CZ)
- 10:36 AM ML 2.2 – Epicenter 3 km W Catanzaro (CZ)
- 12:06 PM ML 2.8 – Epicenter Tiriolo (CZ)
- 12:29 PM ML 2.8 – Epicenter Tiriolo (CZ)
- 12:34 PM ML 2.6 – Epicenter Tiriolo (CZ)
- 1:10 PM ML 2.8 – Epicenter Miglierina (CZ)
- 2:46 PM ML 3.3 – Epicenter Tiriolo (CZ)
Despite the ongoing tremors and community anxiety, there has been a commendable response from emergency services and local authorities. Fire fighters have remained on alert, prepared to respond should the situation require intervention. Yet, officials emphasize that the community's safety remains the top priority and that the primary focus is on monitoring the seismic activity.
In light of the current situation, local authorities are reassuring residents that the seismic nature of the region is being taken seriously, with continuous monitoring underway. The repeated tremors serve as a stark reminder of the geological dynamism that characterizes this area of Calabria. Thus, the focus continues on preparedness and resilience amid natural phenomena.
It is clear that the cumulative effect of these seismic activities has left an imprint on the community, with many reporting sleepless nights and heightened anxiety. As the swarm persists, the community bonds have visibly strengthened, reflecting a collective resolve to endure and adapt to the stresses caused by these Earth movements.
At the conclusion of the day, while the continuous seismic activity has prompted precautionary measures at schools and elsewhere, officials maintain that there is no indication of longer-term danger. Geological experts continue to study the earthquake swarm carefully, and they urge the public to remain calm and informed. While an increase in vigilance in case of future significant tremors is sensible, community members are encouraged to focus on their daily lives while maintaining the knowledge that they reside in an earthquake-prone area.
As the situation evolves, updates will be provided by local news outlets and the INGV, ensuring that all residents remain aware and prepared for any potential developments concerning seismic activity in their region. For now, Tiriolo, Miglierina, and the surrounding areas remain on alert but undeterred, facing the challenges of nature together.
