An earthquake of magnitude 4.4 hit near the southern Italian city of Naples early on Thursday, damaging buildings and causing locals to flee into the streets. The earthquake occurred at 1:25 a.m. (0025 GMT) with its epicentre near the coastal town of Pozzuoli,

Strong quake shakes Naples, forcing residents into streets and cars The earthquake was the most powerful recorded in the Phlegraean Fields volcanic region and had the same intensity as a tremor that struck the area in May last year.

The southern Italian city of Naples was struck by a 4.4-magnitude quake early Thursday that caused only minor damage and sent 11 people to hospital, officials said.