Major Earthquake Hits Campi Flegrei Volcanic Area Near Naples

On June 30, 2025, a magnitude 4.6 earthquake struck the Campi Flegrei volcanic region near Naples, Italy. The tremor, centered in the Gulf of Bacoli at a depth of nearly five kilometers, caused the partial collapse of the Punta Pennata ridge. While the mayor of Pozzuoli reported no immediate damages, social media was filled with accounts of the shaking, which lasted several seconds. This earthquake is the second strongest in the region in 40 years, with a smaller magnitude 2.2 aftershock following shortly after.
Campi Flegrei, a large volcanic field near Naples, has a history of significant eruptions, including a VEI 7 event 37,000 years ago. Though not classified as a supervolcano, its proximity to densely populated areas poses a major risk. A large eruption could blanket much of Europe and North Africa with volcanic ash, damaging infrastructure and renewable energy equipment. The region's 600,000 residents living within the danger zone are particularly vulnerable.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with officials like Campania MP Tullio Ferrante emphasizing the need for proactive measures. The region's volcanic activity remains a critical concern, highlighting the potential for low-probability, high-impact events.

Published: 7/3/2025