An earthquake registering around magnitude 4 struck the southern Italian province of Reggio Calabria, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). The event drew immediate attention from residents and authorities across the region, highlighting how even moderate quakes can ripple through densely inhabited coastal zones and trigger widespread responses.
INGV reported that the most noticeable shaking occurred at 07:49 local time, with observers noting a sensation of tremor widely felt from towns along the southern Apennines and even across the nearby island of Sicily. The seismic reading varied slightly in initial reports, with estimates ranging from 3.6 to 4.1 in magnitude, reflecting uncertainties inherent in rapid earthquake assessments yet underscoring a noticeable ground movement that prompted caution among communities.
The epicenter was identified near the town of Samo in Calabria, with a focal depth of approximately 14 kilometers. Shallow earthquakes of this depth often produce the most perceptible shaking at the surface, contributing to heightened public awareness and swift local responses in the affected areas.
Eyewitness accounts described a strong jolt that prompted residents to leave buildings and gather on streets and open spaces. Samo’s mayor, Paolo Pulitano, reported that many residents hurriedly exited their homes in fear and remained outside as a precaution while officials assessed structural safety and possible aftershocks. Local authorities urged calm and reminded residents to follow standard safety practices after tremors, including avoiding damaged structures and staying clear of affected zones until it was deemed safe to return indoors.
Separately, a 5.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in northwest China, with tremors felt across parts of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The epicenter was located about 110 kilometers west of Tumshuk, illustrating how crustal stresses can unleash significant seismic activity in distant regions and prompting international earthquake monitoring networks to corroborate event details as information becomes available.
In a broader regional context, Afghanistan has faced requests for international assistance in the wake of recent seismic activity. Such requests reflect ongoing humanitarian considerations when earthquakes disrupt infrastructure, housing, and essential services in vulnerable communities. International partners continue to monitor seismic hazards and coordinate relief efforts to support affected populations, including rapid damage assessments, emergency shelter provisions, and the restoration of critical utilities in the aftermath of strong quakes. [INGV] [UN relief coordination notes]