Strongest earthquake in years strikes volcanic area near Naples, injuring four

Published on 31/07/2026 - 22:08 GMT+2

Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) recorded 10 aftershocks following the magnitude 4.7 earthquake. It said Friday's tremor was the strongest since seismic activity intensified in the Phlegraean Fields, a volcanic area west of Naples that has experienced increasing unrest in recent years. The quake was felt across Naples and neighbouring communities.

Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said four people were injured, with damage reported to residential buildings and several churches. Italy's Civil Protection Department activated its crisis unit as emergency services assessed the impact.

Rail services on the Cumana and Circumflegrea lines, which connect Naples with communities in the Phlegraean Fields, were suspended while safety inspections were carried out.

Local officials urged residents to remain calm and follow official instructions.

Many people fled into the streets after the quake, while power outages were reported in parts of Naples and the surrounding metropolitan area.