A series of seismic events affected the area of Campi Flegrei, recorded by the Vesuvian Observatory starting from 07:23 of April 11th. Although seismic activity has included tremors up to magnitude 2.2, these earthly movements were of low intensity and not perceptible to the majority of the population. Local authorities, in collaboration with the Observatory, continue to monitor the situation with caution, ensuring that any developments are communicated promptly and that the community is informed and prepared without generating alarm
Let's try to better understand what is happening, and why some newspapers often tend to create panic in order to increase the virality of the contents.
What is an earthquake swarm
Uno seismic swarm it is a sequence of many seismic events of similar magnitude that occur in a specific geographical area and in a short period of time. Unlike major earthquakes followed by aftershocks, swarms do not feature a single large event. These are common phenomena in areas such as the Campi Flegrei, where the geological dynamics it is influenced by magma movements and geothermal activity. Earthquake swarms can vary in duration and intensity and are subject to continuous studies by scientists to better understand their mechanisms and potential impacts.
The data of seismic events detected by the Vesuvian Observatory
In the last 24 hours, the Vesuvian Observatory has documented a remarkable seismic activity in the Campi Flegrei area. They were recorded well 49 events, with magnitudes ranging between 0 and 2.2. Most of these earthquakes had their epicenter in Gulf of Pozzuoli and in adjacent areas, such as Bagnoli and the former Italsider area. Despite the relative low magnitude, the frequency of events deserves continued attention observation to monitor the evolution of the situation and to refine the forecast models used by experts.
The bradyseism in the Campi Flegrei is continuing to rise and we expected an increase in the frequency of the seismicity that has been occurring in recent days. Because naturally the crust, having been under pressure for a few weeks, reaches a moment of fracture which generates the earthquake. The fact that the localization of telluric events occurs in multiple points of the caldera, as has happened in recent days between the gulf, the Solfatara and the rest of the mainland, underlines the fact that it is the entire source that rises. In recent weeks we have also made visible on our website the seismograph station which is located inside theMontenuovo Oasis which we have had for several years. Furthermore, we are strengthening the monitoring network in an even more widespread manner both in the Gulf of Pozzuoli and on the mainland
Mauro DiVito, director of the Vesuvian Observatory
The geological context of the Campi Flegrei
The Campi Flegrei, located west of Naples, are an area of great geological interest known for the phenomenon of bradyseism, i.e. vertical movements of the ground which can be both lifting and lowering. It is an area characterized by aintense geothermal activity and underlying volcanic activity that contributes to the frequency of seismic events, such as the recently observed earthquake swarms.
Scientific studies indicate that these movements are due in the presence of a magma chamber shallow, the pressure of which affects the stability of the surface. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for assessment of volcanic risks and seismic in the region.
Do we have to worry?
Despite the recent sequence of seismic events in the Campi Flegrei may cause concern, it is important to underline that the tremors were of low intensity and did not cause damage. The Vesuvian Observatory and the Civil protection they constantly monitor the area to ensure that any significant changes are promptly detected and communicated in order to react promptly, but To date there is no evidence of particularly worrying conditions.
