POZZUOLI, ITALY – Two earthquakes, both registering above magnitude 2, struck the Campi Flegrei area on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, just seconds apart, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). The seismic activity prompted an immediate alert from the Municipality of Pozzuoli, which is closely monitoring the situation.
Details of the Seismic Event
The first tremor, with a magnitude of 2.5, was recorded at 9:05 AM local time (08:05 UTC) with its epicenter in the Solfatara area. A second, slightly weaker quake followed just seconds later, with its epicenter located a short distance away, closer to the Astroni area. Both events were part of an ongoing seismic swarm in the Campi Flegrei region, a caldera known for its active volcanic phenomena.
Official Communication from Pozzuoli Municipality
The Municipality of Pozzuoli released a statement confirming the seismic swarm. “The Vesuvius Observatory has informed this administration that, starting from 09:03 local time on January 14, 2026 (08:03 UTC), a seismic swarm is underway in the Campi Flegrei area,” the statement read. “For any reports of damage and/or inconvenience, please call the following numbers: Municipal Police Operations Center: 081/8551891, Civil Protection: 081/18894400.”
The statement further assured residents that the Municipal Administration, in collaboration with the Civil Protection of Pozzuoli, is closely following the evolution of the seismic swarm and will provide further updates until the phenomenon concludes.
Temporary Closure of Flavio Amphitheater
As a precautionary measure following the tremors, the Flavio Amphitheater in Pozzuoli was temporarily closed to the public. This decision was made to ensure the safety of visitors and to allow for any necessary structural assessments.
Context of Campi Flegrei’s Seismic Activity
The Campi Flegrei caldera is a supervolcano located west of Naples, known for its bradyseismic activity, which involves cycles of ground uplift and subsidence accompanied by seismic swarms. While such events are common in the area, authorities remain vigilant due to the potential for stronger quakes and their impact on the densely populated region.
Local residents are accustomed to seismic activity, but the frequency and intensity of tremors are always closely watched by scientific and civil protection agencies. The current swarm is a reminder of the dynamic geological nature of the area.
Public Response and Future Updates
As of Thursday morning, January 15, 2026, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries. However, the event has generated concern among the local population, prompting discussions about urban planning and emergency preparedness in a region prone to seismic and volcanic events.
The Municipality of Pozzuoli and the Civil Protection will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to report any concerns to the designated emergency numbers.
